I checked the site out and found some helpful info. Regardless, after 3 weeks of searching, screening, evaluating and loads of test drives, I finally pulled the trigger and now a very happy LS owner. The vehicle is simply awesome, to put it mildly ! Now I am firmly entrenched in the Toyota enclave and loving them both (my '01 Seq and '99 LS, of course) !!
Just bought a Sequoia and after 100 miles the engine light came on. The shocked dealer rushed right out and took it back and hooked it up to the computer system analyzer and they determined it was a bad "out of the shop" catalytic converter. They said that there was no harm in driving it, so they put me back on the road and ordered a new one. The dealer was great - great price, color and specs I wanted, best car buying experience I've had. Dealer came out got car from me to replace part. They replaced it and in driving it back to me the engine light came on again. They took it right back and determined that the other catalytic converter was bad too - didn't know that there were two of them? Is there? I asked if they operated on the "wrong knee". They had never seen both come bad out of the factor. Now waiting for second catalytic converter to come in, but am worried. Anyone heard of this? Could something else be wrong? Anyone had an engine light come on within 100 miles of driving it off the lot?
My engine light came one after my wife didn't screw the gas cap on tight enough. Something about the fuel system being under pressure. Anyhow, you need to turn the gas cap until it clicks two or three times.
What is Toyota policy on rental cars? Whenever I took my Tundra in for service, I was always offered a loaner car (from on site car rental agency) but when I called to have my electric seat adjuster fixed I was told that Toyota only pays for a loaner if the vehicle is unsafe or unable to be driven. This is a different dealership. Anyone else hear of this?
There was a lot of discussion of toyota t-cases a while back. Not looking to start it back up...Just wanted to let those interested know there is a good article in this months fourwheeler magazine about toyota transfer cases.
Your dealer probably mis-diagnosed the problem. More than likely, it was not the C-converter but rather a bad sensor that directed them to a converter. I'm sure they will figure this one out.
As to loaner cars, the answer is a bit convoluted. Some dealers have a fleet of loaners that they will give to anybody having service done. Others do not and adhere to the Toyota warranty requirements. That requirement is to give "alternate transportation" in the event that the car is unsafe to drive while parts are ordered. You also get a loaner if the car needs to be left over night for repairs. Other than that, it is at the dealer discression.
It's not the gas cap. Suspect the sensor is the more likely culprit. The odds of two bad c-converts on one vehicle is astronomical.
Loaner car is probably only on the table given the problem occurred after just 200 miles. It only takes about 2 hours to replace the c-converter and 1 hour of that is the cool down. I get a loaner as the salesman drives out to my place, leaves his car for my use, and drives mine back for service which as stated above takes about 2 hours.
Just bought our new 02' Sequoia (and drove it 400 miles this weekend), and turned in my 00 Jeep grand Cherokee (lease was up).
The difference in the drive quality really is remarkable. I loved my Jeep, but driving the Sequoia is literally like driving a sedan. It is extremely smooth, and very quiet. It does not have the power/acceleration my Jeep (V8) did, but it does have much more refined acceleration.
A quirk I noticed...the armrest is too short.
I am also very glad I opted for the sunroof, after seeing the funny looking rack of sunglass holders.
I want to install a HP on a 2002 SR5 but find the $175 cost a bit high. Thats the price quoted by my local Toyota dealer- has anyone bought/installed an generic hood protector? If so are you satisfied with the looks and function?Thanks for any comments.
It's a piece of cake. The hood protector should run about $69.00?? And, it comes with a template, plastic screws, and instructions. All you have to do is wipe the hood clean where the mounting pads go (alcohol swaps are in the kit), align the template along the front of the hood and mount it. The factory hp looks awesome and is a perfect fit. Save your money for the labor, a big rip-off. Sometimes the dealers send out coupons or have special sale days and you could save 20%.
Beagles: Which hood protector are you referring to? List price from Toyota Parts Dept. is a very steep $175.00. If you have experience with a $69 aftermarket protector, that works well, please let us know what it is and where to get it.
My dealer was selling it for $75.00. It was the same as the ones on the Sequoias on the lot. I does look awesome. I didn't get it. The wife doesn't "understand".
SORRY everyone that was intersted in the DVD system, I was in Bahrain for three weeks. Anyway, I asked my dealer before I ordered (Durrant Toyota in Weatherford Texas) if it was available. They said it was a new product that they were testing and possibly putting in the Sequoia. I asked to see it and lickely they just received one from Houston. It installs behind the moon roof and has a 6.8" TFT screen. You can see it from every seat in the back. It keeps everyone quiet in the back. It comes with two wireless headsets and can play through your stereo if you select it to the selected station. Usually 89.5 - 94.5 I beleive. It sounds just like your in the theatre with sorround sound. My kids watch it every time we get into the truck. They LOVE it. I don't like the fact that they didn't install a power converted plug for pluging in a Play Station 2. A power converter costs $75.00 at Best Buy. I have put 2800 miles on it since April 13, 2002. It rides great and still smells new. Everyone has commented on how nice it is. If you have any further questions you can contact me at shutupandpitch@hotmail.com
There is an alternative and that is to apply 3M Scotchcal film to your paint. See it at www.mmm.com. It is nearly invisible and evidently works well. Also goes by the name of invisible auto bra. I got a quote of $175 canadian to do hood, bumpers and mirrors. Installation extra, and I believe somewhat finicky to install.
Just purchased a 02 Limited, silver sky metallic, and loved every mile I driven. However, I notices a loud fluttering sound that comes through the sunroof when completely opened when driving around 35+ mph. I was wondering if a sunroof deflector/visor will eliminate this noise. If so, where is a good place to buy one cheaper than what I could get at the dealer.
Thanks for the input. Sometime, I do not want to lower the rear windows, children back there you know. But the question as previously stated, "Do a sunroof deflector/visor will eliminate this noise?"
Just wanted to thank 2heeldrive on the instruction on disconnecting the DRL and Raddboy41 aka Kevin on the info on the AC TSB. I have a 01 model that already has the retro-fix.
I'm new to this board and it is great! It is especially great when we focus on how our Seq work and sharing info with each other. We know the quality of our Seq and there is no need to convince others who always try to point out the faults. Remember like people, cars are not perfect. I just had my 15K mile service. Front Breaks 58% rear 75% and it is running as smooth as ever. It will be a year at end of July. Hope these numbers are normal.
I checked my 02 Seq. and it also has the new AC piece installed already. It was built 4/02.
But I do have a question. I have the dual AC in the Seq. Where does the water from the AC drain? I ask because I have seen water draining after running the AC where it usually drains under the truck and also behind the right rear tire. Is this normal?
How about cracking the tailgate glass? That's what I do. I'm not sure that would affect your children. Don't open it too far as you increase the chance of drawing exhaust into the truck while waiting at stop signs/lights.
I have a sunroof deflector and the buffeting will still occur although I am not sure at what speed it occurs. I also open the tailgate glass a few inches if buffeting occurs. Works great.
They only charge $64.00 for one for a land cruiser, so Sequoia should be comparable (hopefully). You may need to e-mail them to get a price since they don't list one on the hood protector page.
One thing that makes a huge difference with the buffeting is if you don't open the sunroof all the way. When you let the sunroof auto open it stops about 4 inches from all the way. This is done as the best compromise between full open and least buffeting. It is drastically worse if sunroof open all the way. I can assure you it is not unique to Sequoias. My wifes Camry does the same and we just test drove an Escape. Same thing. Escape sunroof also stops before fully open. Opening a window just a crack does the trick as previously mentioned.
There are three front end protection methods that I am aware of. 1.The smoked plexiglass hood protector, 2. The Scotchgard invisible film that covers most all of the front end in sections and is not that easy to install. 3. The front end mask (Bra) which is black vinyl with a white fleece like cotton underneath that goes against the body. I installed it and it was not the easiest either. It comes in two pieces and can be purchase for $179.00 Here in Florida we have bug season approaching and it is necessary to have at least some protection. The Sequoia's front end is a bug magnet and I thought this would be the best protection of all and it can easily be removed once bug season is over. Toyotaguys.com or Romaniatoyotaparts.com has them if anyone's interested.
Unless you are super anal and remove and clean under the bra on a weekly or bi-weekly basis it will collect dirt and act like sand paper on your paint. Also it will make the paint fade at a different rate than the rest of the car so over time that section will be darker. I'd stick with the Stone-guard adhesive or the plexiglass deflector.
I checked my 2001 and it does not have the retrofit suction tube. Since I live in the CA desert, I want to have this changed BEFORE a problem develops.
Can someone tell me what the exact procedure is? Do I just take the vehicle in to local dealer and give them the TSB number and say I want it done? I guess my question is does the dealer HAVE to do the change once it is brought up by me? Just want to be sure I understand where I stand on this.
I imagine that the best way to get this done as a preemptive measure would be the "nice" approach. I don't believe that they are under any obligation, other than customer satisfaction, to do this BEFORE failure. They'll have to order the parts ahead of time and it could take a couple of weeks to get them. Simply explain your concerns about your....ahem...cough...3 week vacation (cross country) that's coming up and don't want this to ruin it! :^) Good luck!
I was concerned about the AC on my 02 Seq. Which I just found out this weekend that it has the retro fit on already after looking with the diagram from this sight.
Two weeks ago I went to my dealer to ask if he could look at the AC to prevent any problems. I told him I was going up and down the east coast this summer, so he would atleast take a look. He gave a lot of attitude and said he is not going to order a new kit if I don't have a problem with it. So I asked what should I be listening for he said a metal grinding or banging sound. So I think if you want anything looked at say that you heard some metal grinding or metal banging under the truck. Good Luck
Thanks to all on the posts for the soon to be 16 year old. I appreciate Pschreck and Slacker's idea of a Volvo, Devoke on the Jeep Wrangler (The "chicks dig 'em" isn't mom's focus for him just yet), oac3 on the Civic and Cliffy on the Avalon. I like really big vehicles because of all of the highway miles we do, out with the big trucks. I did look at a Tundra 4X4 with stick and V6 and little second seat, about 20K before negotiating, nice idea but too much money. I would put in a roll bar, but how would that be on the cool factor Devoke? I am going to wait on this and keep thinking about it and see how he does with the Sequoia (oh my, it is brand new)- I'll get back to the list in awhile! Thank you for the ideas to check out. Hockeymom
I am considering buying a new Sequoia and would like to use it to tow a 5,500 lb boat/trailer. I'd appreciate any feedback from someone with experience using the Sequoia to handle this load.
There was a very good comparison in a back issue of Trailer boats magazine. The Sequoia was rated the best in a 3-SUV comparison. I'll check my back issues and see if I can find it for you.
I have posted extensively (and debated Heatwave) on this topic. My Four Winns Sundowner boat is 5500 lbs all in (approx.). I have towed on short trips and long trips. Flat and 8% mountain grades. I did a 2800 km. round trip with all of the above last summer in very hot conditions. The Sequoia is a great tow vehicle. Lots of power, very stable, excellent braking and easily handles tongue weight.
Go back through the archives here if you have time. Norwesterner is right about the Trailer Boats article. I saved that issue. Sequoia was rated best of Tahoe, Expedition and Sequoia comparison. In fact it was chosen as their Tow Vehicle of the year. It actually excelled in the toughest part of the test- mountain towing. Don't be swayed too much by the higher horsepower ratings of others. It doesn't always translate into better towing (although I wouldn't argue against a 300+ h.p. Sequoia .
I tow a 22 foot travel trailer that weighs about 5500 lbs. I love the way it handles. Much better than my old Ford Van. The only thing I notice is that all the alarms went off more often when I went around turns fast. Those alarms are the ones that will not let you go aver a certain speed around a specific radius curve. I had to slow my speed down. Probably a good idea anyway. As I said before an this site a vehicle is a compromise between the differing needs you have ( towing, gas milage, commuting, snow travel, tight parking spaces, reliability, etc). You have to look at all uses and pick the best vehicle. In my case of limited towing(3-4 trips per year)the vehicle did not have to be the "best" vehicle for towing. Good luck
I saw a cover in a catalog that was like a hammock. It hooked over the headrests on the front and rear seats and covered the entire rear seat. I'll try to find the info this weekend.
Comments
I checked the site out and found some helpful info. Regardless, after 3 weeks of searching, screening, evaluating and loads of test drives, I finally pulled the trigger and now a very happy LS owner. The vehicle is simply awesome, to put it mildly ! Now I am firmly entrenched in the Toyota enclave and loving them both (my '01 Seq and '99 LS, of course) !!
What is Toyota policy on rental cars? Whenever I took my Tundra in for service, I was always offered a loaner car (from on site car rental agency) but when I called to have my electric seat adjuster fixed I was told that Toyota only pays for a loaner if the vehicle is unsafe or unable to be driven. This is a different dealership. Anyone else hear of this?
Thanks
As to loaner cars, the answer is a bit convoluted. Some dealers have a fleet of loaners that they will give to anybody having service done. Others do not and adhere to the Toyota warranty requirements. That requirement is to give "alternate transportation" in the event that the car is unsafe to drive while parts are ordered. You also get a loaner if the car needs to be left over night for repairs. Other than that, it is at the dealer discression.
Loaner car is probably only on the table given the problem occurred after just 200 miles. It only takes about 2 hours to replace the c-converter and 1 hour of that is the cool down. I get a loaner as the salesman drives out to my place, leaves his car for my use, and drives mine back for service which as stated above takes about 2 hours.
The difference in the drive quality really is remarkable. I loved my Jeep, but driving the Sequoia is literally like driving a sedan. It is extremely smooth, and very quiet. It does not have the power/acceleration my Jeep (V8) did, but it does have much more refined acceleration.
A quirk I noticed...the armrest is too short.
I am also very glad I opted for the sunroof, after seeing the funny looking rack of sunglass holders.
http://www.kevinhawk.com/toytsb.jpg
steve_ "Honda CR-V" May 27, 2002 7:16pm
Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
Thanks.
Thanks.
-mike
It sounds just like your in the theatre with sorround sound. My kids watch it every time we get into the truck. They LOVE it. I don't like the fact that they didn't install a power converted plug for pluging in a Play Station 2. A power converter costs $75.00 at Best Buy. I have put 2800 miles on it since April 13, 2002.
It rides great and still smells new. Everyone has commented on how nice it is. If you have any further questions you can contact me at shutupandpitch@hotmail.com
P.S. My build date 10/01 and no new AC part- I have the old one
BTW, checked my AC and it has the new part.
Thanks in advance
I'm new to this board and it is great! It is especially great when we focus on how our Seq work and sharing info with each other. We know the quality of our Seq and there is no need to convince others who always try to point out the faults. Remember like people, cars are not perfect. I just had my 15K mile service. Front Breaks 58% rear 75% and it is running as smooth as ever. It will be a year at end of July. Hope these numbers are normal.
Oh what a feeling! I'm enjoying every ride.
But I do have a question. I have the dual AC in the Seq. Where does the water from the AC drain? I ask because I have seen water draining after running the AC where it usually drains under the truck and also behind the right rear tire. Is this normal?
They only charge $64.00 for one for a land cruiser, so Sequoia should be comparable (hopefully). You may need to e-mail them to get a price since they don't list one on the hood protector page.
-mike
Can someone tell me what the exact procedure is? Do I just take the vehicle in to local dealer and give them the TSB number and say I want it done? I guess my question is does the dealer HAVE to do the change once it is brought up by me? Just want to be sure I understand where I stand on this.
Two weeks ago I went to my dealer to ask if he could look at the AC to prevent any problems. I told him I was going up and down the east coast this summer, so he would atleast take a look. He gave a lot of attitude and said he is not going to order a new kit if I don't have a problem with it. So I asked what should I be listening for he said a metal grinding or banging sound. So I think if you want anything looked at say that you heard some metal grinding or metal banging under the truck. Good Luck
Go back through the archives here if you have time. Norwesterner is right about the Trailer Boats article. I saved that issue. Sequoia was rated best of Tahoe, Expedition and Sequoia comparison. In fact it was chosen as their Tow Vehicle of the year. It actually excelled in the toughest part of the test- mountain towing. Don't be swayed too much by the higher horsepower ratings of others. It doesn't always translate into better towing (although I wouldn't argue against a 300+ h.p. Sequoia