Toyota Sequoia

gpm5 · June 2001

I worked a deal at $1000 over invoice on our marlin blue SR5 plus a great trade on our '98 FORD windstar (11.5 k). The manager wanted to sell at higher over invoice but when he saw I would walk and that other dealers were available to me close by, he settled on the 1k over invoice which I offered him. The salesman had already put in a lot of time, let me take the truck (with only the miles I had put on it in a test drive, ~3 miles) to my house to show my wife and bring it back with my family. I probably couldn't have sold my windstar myself at a much higher price, so I was real happy overall. With the 2% holdback and his resale of the windstar I think he'll still be making at least $1k.

twosour · June 2001

Have a Avalon and a Sequoia and they both have the same hit from behind
feeling.

armour1 · June 2001

Under 4000 miles on my So. Calif SR5 baby. Love it. VSC & Trac light came on dash. Dealer said a few Seq's have just needed brake fluid to clear the lights. Didn't clear. Guess we'll have to reset the computer. It failed at the "steering angle sensor" which is on back order from factory. That tells me others have this problem too. They say no danger to drive but i left it there (now over weekend & they offered a loaner). I do not really understand "what this could affect"?. I also have experienced the 'lunging" and A/C was probably on. Anyone else??

mulligan2 · June 2001

Has anyone found a pet barrier for their Sequoia? How about a cargo liner with cutouts for the third-seats?

shweggy · June 2001

Husky Liners' one piece cargo area/3rd row liner fits perfect and is a quick install. Love it, the openings for the seat mounts have small dams around them that would contain anything inside the liner, and the outside edge of the liner is about 3 inches high all around. It's a great fit all the way around, I would definitely reccommend it to anyone who wants to protect the rear carpets. I also got the second row liner for the winter months.

comptech4 · June 2001

I am considering getting a SEQ with the sunroof, but I have heard comments from some folks that eventual water leaking is inevitable. I'd appreciate hearing whether anyone has had problems before with a sunroof, on any vehicle.

slickrock · June 2001

This is going to be tough without a picture...

If you look at the factory receiver hitch, the lateral support member is made from 2" ID material just like the receiver itself, and it's from sort of arch shaped (i.e., lower on the left and right ends where it attaches to the frame).

That just begs for some kind of add-on skid plate / bumper protector that slides in to the 2" L&R ends. Combine that with your receiver bumper bar, and you've got a solid system.

The only hitch (ooh) is that the exhaust pipe (on the right side) terminates in the very space where such a support link would need to slide in.

But where there's a will, maybe there's a way...

By the way, everyone and their dog has tubes of touchup paint for your body color, but try and find some for your contrasting color if you have an SR5 (usually "Warm Silver").

I had to order it from the dealer after he searched for the number for 20 minutes. Hint, the paint code is a 5 character number, not a 3 character number like the rest, and you have to look under the Toyota Sienna to find it (at least until an updated paint code book comes out).

I also had the dealer set the Caster alignment to the new specs as listed in Correction to Pub. No. RM832U1 (vol 1. of the Sequoia service manual). There's a longer discussion in TundtaSolutions.com SequoiaSolutions board, and the correction only applies to 4WD SR5's. So far the vehicle seems a bit more stable at freeway speeds.

stacycamarillo · June 2001

I had a Honda with a sunroof for over 9 years. I never once had any problems. I, personally, love them, so every car I've owned has had a moonroof. Knock wood, haven't had any problems yet.

decodog · June 2001

Does anyone know the part numbers for the chrome inserts on the Limited's front grill? I would like to add these to my SR-5. I have heard conflicting information on whether these are available separately or whether you have to purchase the entire Limited grill.

lcd1 · June 2001

I got a Weathertech. It has cut-out for the third seat. This is a second Weathertech cargo matt I own. They work great and look nice. I bought it from JCWhitney, who had it shipped from Weathertech. I saved a few bucks that way.

If anyone knows of a dog barrier for the Sequoia, please let me know.

jcnew4whlr · June 2001

I remember seeing the discussion on TundraSolutions, and at one point there was some question of the final setting. Do I understand from your post that the dealer should now have the correct information in an add-on to his service manual? I have noticed that at highway speeds there seems to be a little instability--but it has also been very windy lately and I put it off to the size of the truck and high winds.

nighter50 · June 2001

I have had sunroofs on a couple of cars and loved them - no problems. The Sequoia's sunroof is a pretty good size - smaller than the Trooper's (which is HUGE!) but bigger (i think) than a Yukon's.

slickrock · June 2001

Yes, there is an update to the caster alignment for the SR5 4D in the form of a revision to the alignment specs page in volume 1 of the service manual (RM832U1).

The dealer gave me a copy of the new page after the work was done. I had given him the new numbers from the TundraSolutions post, but he called Toyota's "help desk" to get the "official copy" of the update before performing the work.

Another interesting fact -- The service manager informed me that Toyota would not perform alignment work under warranty unless the customer (me) complained of an alignment-related problem, like pulling to the right. So I said it was unstable and pulled both right and left, depending on the wind (which was very true). That seemed to work, and the caster was adjusted to the new spec.

Just for reference, for an SR5 4WD, the old caster spec was 1.95° +/- 0.75 and the new Caster spec is 2.61° +/- .75. Also note that the manuals spec. it in both degrees/minutes and decimal degrees, like 2° 37' +/- .45' (2.61 +/- .75). But don't quote me -- check with the dealer.

drew_ · June 2001

As most of us know, the Toyota Sequoia is based on the Toyota Tundra pickup truck platform (and the Ford Expedition/Lincoln Navigator on the Ford F-series pickup truck platform). The IIHS has just test the Tundra in its tough 40mph front offset crash test; the test will be covered in tonight's Dateline NBC programme, so you all may want to watch that. However, here is a preview:

http://www.hwysafety.org/news_releases/2001/pr060401.htm

http://www.hwysafety.org/vehicle_ratings/ce/html/0108.htm

Drew
Host
Vans, SUVs, and Aftermarket & Accessories message boards

zman3 · June 2001

Thanks Andrew! Looks pretty good.

dan165 · June 2001

Well, I finally had my meeting with the manager of my dealership this weekend. The engine clicking is still a problem and the manager asked me if I would be patient with them fixing the problem. He said if they can't do anything soon they may replace my Sequoia with another and re-start the lease. I'm a wondering if I even want another. After getting the run around for 5 weeks I am getting fed up with both Toyota and my dealer.

In the mean time the Seqioa is running fine aside from the engine clicking. It's a very nice truck, but Toyota needs to fix this engine problem pronto!!

mnbucky · June 2001

Our Toyota sunroofs have been fantastic. Land Cruiser is 10 years old and no leaking. Avalon is 4 years old and no leaking. They are opened and closed very often and continue to work. Love to drive with them open. Even if I have to turn the heat up a bit (Minnesota).

thirdsuv · June 2001

I've never had a sunroof in my 38 years and thought it was a waste. Since this would primarily be driven by my wife she wanted one and got it. It turned out to be the best $1k spent on the whole truck. Even though its closed 95% of the time I love it just for the sense of openess and extra light that it brings to the cabin and the cabin just feels "airy" with it. If you try to close the interior shade the cabin feels claustophobic and dark. Just sit in the dealer lot and open and close the shade and see the difference.

thirdsuv · June 2001

The Tundra really spanks the Ford/Chevy in

the crash tests. The F150 is horrible!

http://www.hwysafety.org/vehicle_ratings/ce/html/summary_lgpickup.htm

thirdsuv · June 2001

On the same page

http://www.hwysafety.org/vehicle_ratings/ce/html/summary_lgpickup.htm

above is a large yellow circle in the top left that says "Compare HIGHEST to LOWEST"

Click on that to see a direct comparison of

best versus worst. You'll be glad you bought the Toyota over Ford thats for sure.

I cant post direct link because its some screwy applet thing. Hope someone else has better luck to figure out how to do directly.

dan165 · June 2001

Just had the engine light come on again on the way to work. It probably has something to do with the clicking in the engine (my guess). Should I just ignore this? I'm sick of going back to the dealership and I just don't have the time for it.

diverg · June 2001

Is there a direct similarity to the pick ups and the sub's? Isn't the way a passenger cabin in a pickup reacts to a crash different to an SUB?

I am interested if the IIHS did a test on the SUB's specifically.

The Wall St. Journal had an article a while back in which it proclaimed the Chewy Suburban to be the "safest passenger vehicle on the road."

oac3 · June 2001

engine light coming on could also be a malfunctioning sensor.... better to take it back to the dealer, despite your hesitation to do so. The car is still under warrantee so it should (and need to) be fixed right away.

thirdsuv · June 2001

"The Wall St. Journal had an article a while back in which it proclaimed the Chewy Suburban to be the "safest passenger vehicle on the road." "

First it's unlikely that WSJ had access to very latest safety tests involving Tundra.

Secondly, no matter how much environmentalists want to scream they cannot defy the laws of physics. Physics easily dictates that if two moving cars crash together, the one with heavier mass will be safer IF all other design points are the same. Thats a big IF though.

HOWEVER, if a fast moving car meets a stationary object, then the design of how a car crushes becomes paramount. Which would you rather crash in at 200MPH? a Suburban or an INDY car that weighs 1/4 as much? Therefore it is quite possible that a well designed econobox would be safer then a SUB when hitting a wall.

Therefore, it all depends. I doubt seriously though that the Suburban has the BEST designed saftey cage at the test rated 40MPH.

drew_ · June 2001

Yes, it is true that you cannot make a direct comparison since the cabins of the SUVs and the pickup trucks are different. Generally the SUVs do better since there is more of a supporting structure (no big roof-less cargo box on the back like a pickup) for the crash energy to dissipate. However, you can get some sort of an idea since both are based on the same platform and identical mainly from the A-pillar forward. Based on these pickup truck results, it does appear that the Sequoia will do quite well indeed, in fact very possibly better than the already "good" rated Tundra.

Drew
Host
Vans, SUVs, and Aftermarket & Accessories message boards

diverg · June 2001

I am in the NorthEast and I called a Toyota dealer I have bought from in the past. He said in virtually no uncertain terms that he gets 3 types of Seq's - - SR5, SR5 with leather and the Limited. No other options - i.e. the SR-5 with a dif. package whatever.

I asked about leasing - he came back with $650 for an SR5 and $750 for a Limited (to start). I asked if it's even worth me coming in to negotiate and he said no. This guy knows I am a real buyer as I've bought from him before. I haven't even seen an ad for the Seq's in the paper.

Has anyone leased one? What's a ballpark price around the country? Examples would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

nighter50 · June 2001

It scares me a little that you quoted payments and no other information (negotiated price, term, down payment, moneyfactor, residual value, allowed mileage and overeage rate, tax). This is a how many salesman get you to negotiate a lease that may not be in your best interest and it is impossible to know if your deal is good without knowing all of the information. If you don't know much about leasing I would advise you to read the Ask Lease Questions thread here at edmunds and visit leasespy.com and leasecompare.com and to use an online or downloadable lease calculator once you start negotiating the sales price, moneyfactor, term, etc. However, you asked for examples so here is mine SR5 4X4 with just about all the options but leather - MSRP-40,472 - Negotiated Price 37,000 (you might be able to get a better price now) Term - 36 months Miles - 15k/yr Moneyfactor - .00299 (through USAA) Residual - 55% for a payment with tax (8% in CA) of $633. I think now you may be able to get a better price and a better money factor (BofA had .00274 a couple months ago on this vehicle). I think I did ok but not great and I am interested in seeing how others fared too. Remember to negotiate a sales price not a payment and shop around for the best Moneyfactor/Residual - check your bank, credit union, etc as well as your dealer. Good Luck!

gpm5 · June 2001

I see what you mean in terms of the tailpipe. Another possibility would be to tie into the two rings on the tow hitch--I would think they would be strong enough for end stabilization.

gpm5 · June 2001

I have not noticed any drifting on my sequoia--built in April. The numbers posted have overlap since the plus on one overlaps with the minus on the other. Possibly, mine is within the new spec.

diverg · June 2001

Thanks for the imput. I am actually a dream candidate for a salesperson because I am only looking for a no-money down - cheapest lease price. I know I am giving the car back in 36months regardless so I don't care about anything but monthly price. I go in hoping they gouge the buyout price because I never but the car at the end. I think that's why prices have gone up so much on leasing because the banks are much smarter now.

Thanks again for the info and if anyone else has other prices/techniques - let me know.

nighter50 · June 2001

you are welcome! BTW - mine was no money down.

lcd1 · June 2001

I hope my truck didn't disappear from my driveway too!

reticent1 · June 2001

Isn't this it? You are typing in it.

-Ret

petro33 · June 2001

I read some messages earlier about the different types of waxes to use on your cars. What type has worked well for other Sequoia users? I have an '90 Toyota Tercel EZ and the paint is turning white. It is always in the sun. Is there a wax that protects the paint not just makes it shine. Also someone told me about not waxing you new car until the paint had a chance to "cure". About 3-4 months. Any feed back on this theory?

nota4re · June 2001

Hello all. I finished up the install of an Alpine video/dvd/nav system last weekend and finally got around to uploading some of the photos. For those of you interested in video, nav, and or rear-video entertainment, you may be interested to take a quick look. I'd be happy to answer any questions. Here's the link.

http://www.pacificnet.net/~kpond/sequoia/Alpine_files/frame.htm

lcd1 · June 2001

Nice job! I'll attempt to do the same some day. May I contact you via email directly for advice and questions?

nota4re · June 2001

No problem. kpond@pacificnet.net

tbever · June 2001

Nice job on the DVD Nav system and thanks for posting your pictures.

87path1 · June 2001

We have the chance to purchase a used 2001 Sequoia SR5 with 700 miles on it for $34k. It is being sold at a used car lot. It is silver with side air bags, dual powered cloth seats, JBL stereo and running boards. Before you say "steal," I should point out that it was imported from Canada. The steering also seems to be out of alignment (center steer is at 1 o'clock position). Are these red flags at all? Some competing dealers told me that Canadian vehicles are not desirable (there may be no warranty coverage, hard to re-sell). Although one Toyota dealer say they occasionaly import them themselves. Would the steering problem indicative of an accident? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

sbell4 · June 2001

A good deal is different for each individual. If we knew what region of the US you live in we could be more helpful. In some parts of the states that is a great price while in others you could buy a brand new untitled with no miles for that.

seqedg · June 2001

i wonder if some fellow sequoia limited owners might speculate on why toyota didnt put stereo controls on the steering wheel. any thoughts on this? what are the negatives of this amenity? for a msrp of $45,000, do you think i am asking too much?

stacycamarillo · June 2001

I have no idea?!?!?!!? That is one HUGE fault, though. I had them on my last car, and it is driving me nuts not to have them now. My father has a $20k Buick Century that has steering wheel mounted controls! Go figure.

If it is any consolation, the Mercedes ML is in the same price range and it doesn't have them either.

And, no, it is definitely not too much to ask.

gpm5 · June 2001

Personally, I wouldn't want them on the steering wheel. To each his own though.

gpm5 · June 2001

If you're abrehensive about it, I'd look for a new one. They should convince you that its right. Before you consider purchasing, if you would, look up the vehicle history on an edmunds linked site. Depending on the other options, it is not necessarily a steal by any means. Also, if a dealer in the US is selling it, it should have the full toyota warranty--if not I would not buy.

714cut · June 2001

Is the $34k in Canadian or US funds? My brand new Sequoia (exactly as you describe) was 38500 Canadian. It does not sound like a good deal to me, especially given the uncertainty--was it in an accident(probably if steering off), difficulty in finding out about accident, why sold after only 700miles. Who needs the grief or second guessing when spending that much? I say get a new one and its one less thing to worry about.

fsmasek · June 2001

I have been considering a 2002 Explorer, and liked the rental unit I drove all of last week, but after the F-150 crash tests, I am thinking twice about ford and am looking at a foreign vehicle for the first time - the Sequoia. I have not driven one, but when my wife sat in a Limited today, she found some large plastic elclosure below the passenger side dashboard which severely limited her foot room. She had the seat all of te way back. What is that thing? Can it be removed? Do all of them have it? Thanks.

714cut · June 2001

I believe it is the fan and other parts for the heating and air conditioning for the front passengers. It is normal, can not be removed and is not all that noticeable in daily use.

nighter50 · June 2001

This bothers me whenever I sit in the passenger seat...luckily I am driving the truck 90% of the time. So I guess I disagree with 714cut - for those in the passenger sit (at least those that are six feet or over) it is noticeable and would be one of the first items on my list of recommended changes.

dan165 · June 2001

Well after weeks of fighting with my dealership and Toyota, it looks like they are going to let me out of my lease. The engine clicking can not be fixed (yet) and the the engine light has come on three times since I got the thing. Clearly this truck is a lemon. My delema now is, do I get another? My confidence in this truck and Toyota is pretty low now and my instinct is to look for something else. While I do like the Sequoia, I could get an Expedition or a Tahoe for thousands less. I tested both over the weekend. Looks like decision time is coming soon.

gpm5 · June 2001

I sat there and didn't notice anything interferring with my feet. Guess I'll have to look now that its been mentioned.

Toyota Sequoia

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