What are common issues with the Toyota Sequoia?

Engine Failure (Machining Debris): Catastrophic failure due to metal shavings left in engine block during manufacturing, leading to spun main bearings. Subject of a large, expanding recall. Severely Compromised Cargo/Third-Row Space: Hybrid battery placement drastically reduces cargo volume, raises load floor, and results in poor third-row headroom (35.6 inches cited).

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Toyota

Toyota Sequoia

SUV · Gas · 12 versions · owner report

Ranked #10 of 11 full-size SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy

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Every generation

Should I buy one?

437Hp

Power

20–22mpg

Combined, EPA 2026

Typical asking price (US)$23,195–$66,999median $56,630 · 47 live listings

What owners say

Our take, from owner reports

Sentiment is sharply divided by generation.

9 problems reported (4 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 3 isolated) · high confidence

Problems owners report

Very frequentEngine Failure (Machining Debris)
Catastrophic failure due to metal shavings left in engine block during manufacturing, leading to spun main bearings. Subject of a large, expanding recall.
Very frequentSeverely Compromised Cargo/Third-Row Space
Hybrid battery placement drastically reduces cargo volume, raises load floor, and results in poor third-row headroom (35.6 inches cited).
Very frequentFrame Rust
Box frames rust from the inside out, potentially leading to structural failure. The most critical item to inspect before purchase.

+ 6 more issues

Very frequentTiming Belt Service
The 5.7L V8 is an interference engine requiring timing belt and water pump replacement every 90,000 miles; failure causes catastrophic engine damage.
Recurrent4WD System Quirks/Failures
Issues with engagement (blinking 4HI light), center differential warnings, and stiff/binding operation when engaged, indicating potential actuator or transfer case problems.
RecurrentSmall Fuel Tank
23-gallon capacity combined with 16-17 MPG highway leads to frequent refueling stops, especially when towing.
IsolatedElectrical/Software Glitches
Isolated report of multiple simultaneous warning lights (brake malfunction, check engine) causing driveability concerns, potentially related to a defective regulator ring.
IsolatedPersistent "Glitter" in Oil
Metal shavings observed in oil during changes even at 27,000 miles, indicating ongoing wear or contamination related to the manufacturing defect.
IsolatedTiming Chain Issues (at High Mileage)
Emerging reports of timing chain problems on high-mileage examples (over 200,000 miles).

The version owners recommend

For the previous generation (Gen 2), the SR5 base trim in 4x4 with leather seats is frequently recommended as the best value, offering core capability without expensive gadgets that could break. The Limited and Platinum trims are acknowledged as feature upgrades but are often considered less essential. Bench seats in the second row are preferred over captain's chairs for maximum seating capacity (8 total) unless easier third-row access is a priority. For the current generation (Gen 3), a clear "best version" is not established in the data due to overarching concerns about the engine platform.

Competitors to consider

Owners compare it most often with the Ford Expedition, Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon (and Suburban), Nissan Armada/Infiniti QX80, Toyota 4Runner and Toyota Land Cruiser/Lexus LX.

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Full owner report

Overall sentiment

Sentiment is sharply divided by generation. For the previous generation (approximately 2008-2022, referred to as Gen 2), sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, characterized by extremely high praise for legendary reliability, durability, and practicality. Owners report vehicles with over 200,000 miles requiring only routine maintenance, describing them as "built like a tank" and capable of lasting for decades. The 5.7L V8 engine is specifically lauded for its proven reliability. In stark contrast, sentiment for the current generation (2023+, Gen 3) is mixed to negative. While praised for its hybrid turbo engine performance, improved interior quality, comfortable seats, and excellent turning radius, it is heavily criticized for severe compromises in packaging. The hybrid battery placement drastically reduces cargo space and raises the load floor, leading to a cramped third row with significantly less headroom than competitors. Furthermore, this generation is plagued by a major, widely discussed engine defect involving machining debris in the 3.4L twin-turbo V6 (V35A-FTS), leading to spun bearings, catastrophic failures, and a large-scale recall affecting hundreds of thousands of Tundras and Sequoias. This has severely damaged confidence in Toyota's traditional reliability reputation for this new platform.

Positioning vs competitors

The previous generation (Gen 2) is positioned as the undisputed reliability and longevity champion against American full-size SUVs (Expedition, Tahoe/Yukon), which are noted for more frequent powertrain issues and higher long-term repair costs. The Nissan Armada is frequently mentioned as a capable, value-oriented alternative that often sells for significantly less on the used market, though with lower brand cachet. The current generation (Gen 3) is critically compared to its predecessor and found lacking in interior space and practicality, despite having a more modern interior and hybrid powertrain. It is noted for having only part-time 4WD without an "Auto" mode, a functional simplification compared to the automatic AWD systems offered by competitors. Against luxury peers like the Lexus LX, it is understood to share core platforms but offer a less refined experience.

Recommended configurations

For Gen 2: 4x4 is strongly recommended. SR5 trim represents the best value-for-money proposition. A thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on the frame for rust (a known failure point) and verification of timing belt/water pump service history (required every 90,000 miles) is considered mandatory. Avoid vehicles with rusty frames at all costs. For Gen 3: No specific recommended configurations are mentioned beyond general warnings. An extended warranty is strongly implied due to the widespread engine defect concerns.

General recommendations

For buyers prioritizing absolute long-term reliability and space, a well-maintained, low-rust example of the previous generation (Gen 2 with the 5.7L V8) is the overwhelming consensus choice. It is recommended for families, towing, and as a vehicle that can reliably last 20+ years with proper care. For the current generation (Gen 3), extreme caution is advised. Owners recommend a thorough test drive with the entire family to assess the compromised third-row and cargo space. Given the major engine recall and reliability concerns, purchasing new or used carries significant risk, and an extended warranty is highly suggested. Aggressive negotiation may be possible due to these publicized issues. It is not recommended for buyers who prioritize interior packaging or who are risk-averse regarding powertrain reliability.

Remarks

The owner discussion clearly delineates two distinct vehicles under the same name. The generational shift represents a fundamental trade-off: moving from a proven, simple, and spacious V8 powertrain to a more complex, powerful, but problematic turbo-hybrid system with significant packaging drawbacks. The "Toyota Tax" on used models, particularly for the previous generation, is noted as very high, with older, high-mileage examples commanding premium prices due to their perceived durability. The engine crisis with the new twin-turbo V6 is a central, defining issue that has tangibly impacted owner confidence and is frequently cited as evidence of a decline in Toyota's traditional reliability standards for new models. Analysis based on owner discussions spanning model years from 2001 to 2026.

Generation by generation

Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).

Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2004. Years to avoid: 2023, 2010, 2008, 2007, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001Source: NHTSA (US)Show table

Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Toyota Sequoia years to avoid

Year	Complaints	Recalls	Most-reported area
2025	10	2	unknown or other
2024	37	5	structure
2023	38	5	unknown or other
2022	1	2	steering
2021	4	2	power train
2020	4	2	power train
2019	7	6	unknown or other
2018	20	5	electrical system
2017	7	3	fuel/propulsion system
2016	11	3	service brakes
2015	9	3	electrical system
2014	17	3	unknown or other
2013	12	3	unknown or other
2012	20	4	service brakes

Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.

Recall notices130 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls

2025 · back over prevention:softwarecampaign 25V657000

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2025 Tundra, Tundra Hybrid, and 2023-2025 Sequoia Hybrid vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview image not to display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

2025 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 26V179000

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Toyota Tundra, Tacoma Hybrid, Tacoma, RAV4 Hybrid, Land Cruiser Hybrid, Lexus GX550, 2024-2026 Tundra Hybrid, 2025 Sequoia Hybrid, Crown Signia, Grand Highlander, Lexus TX500 Hybrid, Lexus NX350 Hybrid, 2025-2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid, and Lexus TX350 vehicles. The load carrying capacity modification label may display inaccurate added weight values. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."

2024 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 24V125000

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Tundra, Tundra Hybrid, Lexus LX600, and 2023-2024 Sequoia Hybrid vehicles. Unexpected vehicle movement may occur when the vehicle is in neutral and the brakes are not applied.

2024 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 24V548000

Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain Toyota 2023 GR Supra, 2024 4 Runner, Corolla, Grand Highlander, Grand Highlander Hybrid, Land Cruiser Hybrid, Tacoma, Tacoma Hybrid, 2023-2024 BZ4X, Corolla Cross Hybrid, GR Corolla, GR86, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Prius Prime, Sequoia Hybrid, Tundra, Tundra Hybrid, Venza Hybrid, 2023-2025 Crown, and 2025 Camry Hybrid vehicles equipped with GST accessories. The load carrying capacity modification label may display inaccurate added weight values. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."

2024 · structure:body:bumperscampaign 24V640000

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Sequoia Hybrid vehicles equipped with a tow hitch cover attached to the rear bumper. The tow hitch cover may come loose from the bumper and detach from the vehicle.

2024 · tires:sidewallcampaign 24V767000

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2024 Sequoia Hybrid, Tundra and Tundra Hybrid vehicles. The passenger-side front and rear tires may have inner sidewall damage, which can cause a sudden loss of tire pressure.

2024 · back over prevention:softwarecampaign 25V657000

2023 · tires:temporary/emergency spare tirecampaign 23V468000

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Tundra, Tundra Hybrid, and Sequoia Hybrid vehicles. The steel chain used to secure the spare tire to the underside of the vehicle may have been insufficiently welded.

2023 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 24V125000

2023 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 24V548000

2023 · structure:body:bumperscampaign 24V640000

2023 · back over prevention:softwarecampaign 25V657000

2022 · steering:hydraulic power assist systemcampaign 21V920000

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2008-2022 Sequoia and 2007-2021 Tundra vehicles. The power steering gear assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in an oil leak.

2022 · steering:hydraulic power assist systemcampaign 21E103000

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain JTEKT power steering gear assembly service parts for 2007-2021 Tundra and 2008-2022 Sequoia, part numbers 44250-0C160, 44250-0C131, 44250-0C170, and 11250-0C121. The power steering gear assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in an oil leak.

2021 · steering:hydraulic power assist systemcampaign 21V920000

115 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.

Specifications

Generation

Enthusiast code: XK80

Version

3.5 V6 i-FORCE MAX Hybrid

Hybrid · 437 hp · AWD · automatic

Built 2022–2026

Power437 Hp

Torque583 lb-ft (790 Nm)

DriveAll wheel drive (4x4)

Transmission10 gears, automatic transmission ECT-i

Engine3.4 L

AspirationTwin Turbo, Intercooler

Cylinders6

Seats7 seats

Fuel typeGas

Body typeSUV

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