Toyota Sequoia

cliffy1 · January 2003

In Florida? Nope. The Southeast region is difficult because the distributor is not owned by Toyota. It breeds arrogance in many dealers. Your best bet is to shop for a basically honest salesman (they do exist but finding them is a trick) and work out a price. You will find that a good salesman will get you roughly the same price as anybody else but will keep your blood pressure down while doing it. That is worth money.

mlk74 · January 2003

Your invoice price of $35,400 seems too low for the following options (JBL 6 Disc, Rack, DRL, Fogs, Roof, Roof Deflector, Dual AC, Captain's charis, Curtain Airbags, Keyless, 7to4 Pin Hitch converter(??), Allow Wheel Package #2 (17 inchers) and Convenience Package). Did you get 4x2 or 4x4? Also what do you mean that " The dealer is adding leather for me". Do you mean they will just pay for the cost of leather seats? My dealer is willing to sell Seq. at $400 over the invoice. I thought this price is good. Any comment?

md2002 · January 2003

I really like the Sequoia for its size, features and saftey features. I have a couple questions about some accessories. Does anyone have the rear cargo cover in theirs? Do you have to remove the 3rd row seats or can they be flipped up with the cargo cover.

I will mostly remove them since I don't hall tons of people, but want the option to keep then handy Any suggestions.

Cliffy1: I gave up my quest for the previously loved TLC, I figure the Sequoia will fill in nicely.

luckylou · February 2003

Two weeks ago I had a bad expirience buying a 2003 TLC .They don't want to deal,with several options like NV,GY,SS,AW,CF,PV and TOYO GUARD PLUS.Out the door price $59637. I offerd them 59 even, answerd NO,They came down to 595,wow I said no and went home..Any advice buying out of state.Will I have to pay taxes in both states.How about carsdirect.com has low price but I don't feel comfortable there.Any thougths about it?.... Thank you .. Luckylou

toyotaken · February 2003

Most states have what is called an "in transit" permit. This is basically a "temporary" registration. With this, you typically do not have to pay sales tax in the state you're purchasing the vehicle in. What happens is that when you register the vehicle in your state, you pay the sales tax at that point.

Hope this helps.

Ken

cliffy1 · February 2003

The SET distributor controls distribution from NC, SC, GA and FL. In those states you will have things like the toyoguard package and other aftermarket equipment. If you head West, you will run into the only other non-Toyota owned distributor which is GST or Gulf States Toyota. The reputation of GST is not as bad as SET but you can still end up with non-Toyota equipment.

Up here in VA, we frequently get customers coming over the border to avoid the SET equipment and attitude. Taxes are charged when you title the vehicle. If you pay "cash" you will get a Certificate of Origin and not pay the tax in the state you buy it in. You will take the CO to your DMV and pay tax at that time.

luckylou · February 2003

Cllify1,which dealership in VA. I am ready for a 2003 TLC. Perhaps the SUV could be delivery to my home. Maybe I can buy on from you.Cash works for me........Thanks again.

ilehrman · February 2003

Do the wireless headsets (Toyota parts) work with the "Rear Audio System" on the '03 Sequoia? I have a pair of Toyota wireless headsets and cant seem to get them to work. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks

toyotaken · February 2003

The ones from the parts department should work. I know it's sort of stupid to say, but sometimes everyone needs a reminder, but remember to check the batteries. Sort of like the story about the person who says that their computer doesn't work and forgot to plug it in...

Also make sure that the rear-seat audio system is on.

If all else fails, bring it in to the service dept. and they should be able to check to make sure everything is working ok.

Ken

bigorange30 · February 2003

Do the Toyota headsets have a microswitch that shuts them off when you take them off of your head? The ones that I have for my Infiniti QX4 had this microswitch and my kid's heads were not big enough to keep the microswitch made and therefore, the kept cutting off. They were made by China Electronics and therefore, Infiniti said they were not allowed to work on them. It was very easy for me to take it apart and remove the microswitch and splice the wires together permanently. The kids have to make sure they turn the manual switch off each time but that should be easy enough to remember.

I was just wondering if the Toyota ones have this problem. I was also very surprised that Infiniti refused to do what was easy for me to do myself.

toyotaken · February 2003

Honestly, I don't know off the top of my head. I'll check the sets in one of our vehicles on Monday when I stop into work to finish up some paperwork.

Ken

lorainemax2 · February 2003

That was the invoice price. It it a 4x2. The dealer added leather through Custom Soft Touch. This is the same company used by Gulf States as well as Ford (any time you see "Ford Outfitters" type stuff). Very pleased with the leather by the way....actually seems to be a higher grade than what I had in my '01.

Love this one in Phantom Gray.

I got a great deal...especially on my trade. I think my dealer may have had a buyer for my '01 though since I knew him personally and he knew what a great truck my '01 would be for someone.

People give me a hard time for buying another Seq...but this one does have more options than my '01 plus....even my wife admits....once you have driven one of these it's tough to find something else comparable.

cliffy1 · February 2003

Edmunds policy forbids me from telling you how to contact me, other than in my profile. This policy is to prevent dealerships from using this place as nothing more than an advertising medium. I get it and I understand it, but it drives me a bit nuts sometimes when a person like you could be assisted so easily with an e-mail.

low_ball_88 · February 2003

Has anyone done a comparison as to the price difference, if any, between a loaded SR5 vs. LTD. Seems to me that some of the posters here are buying loaded SR5 instead of a LTD. Why would anyone do this if they would simply buy the LTD and get everything they want as far as options.

Just wondering.

jraider · February 2003

I saw over on the Sienna board that Sears wouldn't sell one of those hard boxes to a guy with a factory roof rack on a Sienna. They said that the rack wouldn't hold it. Funny we had a '98 Sienna with a factroy rack and put one of those boxes on it and drove from Ohio to Texas and back. We also drove from Ohio to Tennessee and back, we had no problem.

To get to my question.....Now we have an 03 Sequoia with a factory rack. We plan on driving from Ohio to Florida this summer, can we put one of those boxes on the factory Sequoia roof rack? Isn't that what they are for? Is there a danger? One of my had to have options was a roof rack for this reason. Are they just for looks?

toyotaken · February 2003

There are a couple of things to remember about factory roof racks and luggage carriers bought at Large retail chains. The factory roof rack is designed to hold, if I remember correctly, something like 100lbs. Most of the aftermarket cargo carriers can carry somewhere to the tune of 300lbs or more. So when a major retailer sells you a luggage carrier, they are going to limit what they sell you based upon weight limits of the facory roof rack, but also the possibility of added rollover risk associated with extra weight that high on a vehicle. They are limiting their exposure to risk by limiting what they sell with what vehicles.

Hope this helps.

Ken

pschreck · February 2003

We took a trip from PA to Florida last year with a "pod" on our Sequoia. We were traveling between 65 and 95 mph and had no problems. I did overengineer the tiedown system. I used rachet straps to tie it down. The "pod" was one of the higher profile types. Hope this helps.

lorainemax2 · February 2003

Just got through doing the big comparison and bought another SR5. For reasons I cannot understand you can pull off the SR5 with "Most" options for a lower price than the Limiteds. The SR5's are also more plentiful and the dealers seem more willing to deal on them.

My purchase was driven by the ability to get exactly what I wanted in the SR5 without a bunch of other stuff that I did not necessarily want or need.

SR5 Plusses for Me:

I like two tone paint (especially with the Phantom Gray).

The Grill is body colored with Phantom Gray (or close enough) which looks cool I think

Limited Options that I missed out on:

I did not care about the power retractible mirrors since I have an 18 foot wide garage door.

Steering Wheel Stereo Controls for Radio (actually could have got these on the SR5 but everyone told me this was a hard to find package)

Probably other stuff but this was what I looked for.

jraider · February 2003

md2002-Yes the rear seats can be tumbled without removing the cargo cover. My husband used my sequoia yesterday to move something. I got in it today and the rear seats were tumbled and the cargo cover was in place.

pschreck-was your carrier the sleek newer ones or the older boxey ones? I call the older ones the big mac carriers because they look like the old big mac hamburger boxes, before McDonalds got enviornmentaly friendly. Anyway, was it one of those? Did you fill it full? That's what we use, we borrow it from our neighbors.

My husband always really tied down the box to the sienna roofrack too. I'm not sure what he used but it was on there really well.

pschreck · February 2003

Yeah, it was pretty boxy. About 2' high with a slightly curved front. I believe it was a Sears. Gray bottom section with a white top section. It was loaded with several large bags of clothing. I would guess that it may have weighed around 80 to 100 lbs.

I strapped it down with four ratchet straps. Two front to back and two side to side. We probably looked like a couple of freaks, but that thing wasn't going anywhere on my watch.

The rest of the truck was loaded down with various items so the load wasn't top heavy. I don't remember for sure but I believe we got about 17 mpg on the way down in 2WD at some pretty high speeds for an SUV. On the way back it rained from the GA line the whole way back. We traveled in 4WD without the "pod" and I believe we got about 17.5 mpg while clipping along at equally high speeds.

I posted about the trip last February and that mileage info will be more accurate than my memory.

jraider · February 2003

pschreck-your carrier sounds exactly like the one that we use with the grey bottom. Thanks so much for posting...I feel better now.

luckylou · February 2003

Good morning boys and girls. Question. Pound per pound, ac per ac, comfort per comfort, brakes per brakes , inch per inch ,etc per etc. options per options. What are your preferences and dislikes? I am just picking your brains. Thank you. Lou

bigorange30 · February 2003

Did you find that information on your wireless headsets?

cliffy1 · February 2003

If you don't want the navigation system and you don't mind the 4 speed automatic, the Sequoia has a lot going for it. The LC does have something esoteric about it. I can't describe it but when you drive them both, you can feel it. The LC just feels better.

Now, as for equipment, the Sequoia is hard to beat. You've got the same 6 disc CD, side curtain air bags, power everything, power folding side mirrors, heated seats (not real useful in FL), 4.7 liter V8, VSC and a wonderful 4WD system. The Sequoia will allow use in 2WD while the LC will not. Once in 4WD, the Sequoia is identical to the LC 4WD system. The Sequoia is larger and is much more comfortable for back seat passengers, especially in the far back.

Drive them both. The Sequoia is less expensive but it does lack that LC feel.

low_ball_88 · February 2003

I have to agree with cliffy1. There is a particular feel to the LC over the SEQ. The LC interior is much more luxurious than the SEQ. I like the fact that the shifter is in the center console vs. on the steering column.

I think that the LC was built from the gound up so to speak while the SEQ was based on the Tundra therefore, the feel is quite different.

luckylou · February 2003

Steve, you are right,we have driven both and the TLC feels much better. Thank you.

md2002 · February 2003

You have the cargo cover in place with the 3rd row of seats folded forward. If you put the 3rd row down you have to take the cargo cover off and put it on the floor?

Thanks.

jraider · February 2003

md2002 Yes you do have to remove it. It is very simple to do its like a shade attached to a bracket on each side. We purchased a microwave and we had to take the cargo cover out to get it in, we put it in the back seat.

md2002 · February 2003

Thanks. It nice to know you can have both the 3row folded and the cargo cover in there. I won't need the 3rd row all that much, but really want the cargo cover.

slcamt · February 2003

Here in Utah almost all SR5s are loaded. I liked the two tone paint SR5 wheels and didn't want leather. If you were buying a 4runner you would have to get the limited to get two tone. So that was a bonus for me. When I was shopping a loaded SR5 and a limited where about $5000 difference. The few options that were on the limited just aren't worth the $5000 to me.

md2002 · February 2003

I put a deposit down last night with my sales person and will see him on Saturday to do the deal. Its nice working with people who present the best deal up front (and yes make a profit) but don't drag out the process.

Besides I am flying out of town Saturday afternoon and they won't have time to drag this out since I can always leave with nothing done.

lorainemax2 · February 2003

I agree that it is terrible when a deal gets dragged out over eternity. I only do business after I have done all of my homework and know what my trade is worth, the invoice of the new vehicle and a good idea of the market for the new vehicle.

Once you know that you can deal over the phone. I never have walked into a dealership to buy a car without a definite price in mind, interest rate in hand and trade value desired and not gotten it.

You also have to be fair though. These guys are in business to make a living...not to give away the store.

spineka · February 2003

I am planning to purchase a SR5 with leather, convenience package, alloy wheel package 2, sunroof, and these other options (RL,KE,EJ,GY,DR,FL) for $39,684 not including tax, title and tages. I live in southeastern PA. Is this a fair price? please advise

md2002 · February 2003

You are absolutely correct. Dealers must make a profit just like the companies we work for do. I have been doing business with the same dealership group and have worked with two reps (original rep is now in F$I) for over six years.

They treat me with respect, know I am ready to buy and deal fairly. I always trade, as my time is worth more to me than trying to sell it myself.

The end result really is what is the trade allowance on the deal. If the vehicle your buy has an invoice of $35k and MSPR of 40K and your trade is worth $5k who cares how they arrive at the end result as long as you get the deal you feel is fair, you can afford and are willing to pay.

For me its the end result of trade allowance (example only) of $8500 -$9000 this allows me to save on sales tax and I am happy.

This is more directed at those who go for the grind and want hold back, floor plan, first and second born and a free loaner when they are out of warranty.

md2002 · February 2003

I couldn't recall your dealership when I was talking to a customer in NC yesterday. But I suggested they go on up to VA to buy the Toyota they wanted so they can avoid SET on their mark ups and add ons. Sent her some links from Toyota.com. But I think your dealership may have been too far for her to drive, not sure.

lorainemax2 · February 2003

I think I just bought the same exact vehicle. I paid $37,100 for it including the leather. Mine was Phantom Gray. I love the new wheels in Package 2.

Seems like something is out of whack with yours because the invoice on one like yours should be down in the $36.5 range. You may be paying too much but then again....are you trading?

lorainemax2 · February 2003

You are absolutely correct. While I was in the sales mangagers office trying to locate the one I wanted I witnessed several buyers beating unmercifully on a salesman. The sales manager, who I have alot of respect for, just told the salesman on his last trip in, "No more games. Here is the invoice, I will go $x over and that is it....I have no other money in this vehicle".

To me...that is fair. If Wal-Mart sold every item on their shelves at cost they would be out of business.....and so would a car dealer if they do the same.

luckylou · February 2003

Springfield Toyota in VA. Very good prices.

spineka · February 2003

I used the edmunds' "price with option" function and came up with an invoice of just over $38,000.
It sounds like you got an unbelievable deal. Maybe it's the area of the country in which you live? According to the TMV price, the price I initially mentioned falls below this. I still think it's too high.

cliffy1 · February 2003

I'm really pleased to see your comments on dealing with dealers. We in this industry have been guilty of many past sins and we conditioned customers into certain responses. There are now many dealerships that are trying to shed those attitudes and practices but it is VERY hard to do that sometimes when customers are expecting the worst out of us.

Its a vicious circle now. Customers don't trust us so they come in with an attitude. The new breed of dealer wants to make a more respectful process but the customer comes in with attitude and can only be sold if we play the game. The customer realizes a game is being played and it reinforces their attitude about dealerships.

I know we started this circle. Its a bummer that we can't end it.

All this is why I argue that consumers should shop for the right dealer instead of the right "deal." If you can find a dealer that will work with you from a position of respect, the price will come and you will start the process of teaching us that we can sell cars without games.

Is this too philosophical for a Saturday afternoon?

ilehrman · February 2003

I have a 03Seq - tried everything cant get the wireless headsets to work... can someone please confirm that they work or does anyone have them with the REAR AUDIO SYSTEM... I am begining to get the feeling theat the wireless headsets will only work with the REAR ENTERTAINMENT SYSYTEM (DVD) can anyone shed some light ....

shek3 · February 2003

We ONLY use ours with the DVD system and they work fine, I will try them today with the radio to see if they work with that too.

gatorjcb · February 2003

Can anyone explain the pro's and con's of getting the Sequoia with the DVD installed versus adding on later with an AM unit?

What I have identified so far--

PROS for Factory install
1. Get rear seat audio controls.

CONS for Factory install
1. More expensive than Aftermarket.
2. Must get $800 sunroof. Makes this expensive if you don't want the sunroof.
3. Can get bigger screen on AM drop-down unit.

One thing I am not certain of is how the DVD audio works. Does it only work through the head sets or will it also work through the rear-audio speakers?

Can an AM Drop-down DVD player also use the rear-audio speakers?

Getting ready to order and need advice FAST!!!

chadrapp · February 2003

One problem with aftermarket dvd is that if you don't get the sunroof, the extended roof mount sunglass holder prohibits you from installing a drop down DVD player. I encountered this problem and went with 3 headrest monitors(2 for the second seat and one for the rear). This only provided room for 5 inch monitors. But we have been quite pleased with the system.

gkatz1 · February 2003

Aftermarket systems can be added without a sunroof by cutting the console. I've seen this done very well and it looks factory. Usually they cut the console at an angle right behind the last compartment. The AM system comes with a bezel that can be wrapped in headliner material.

Another option is to purchase AM headrests with seven inch monitors already installed. The headrests are factory OEM matched. You would need a seperate DVD player. It could be hooked up to play on an A.M. station on the factory stereo. www.vizualogic.com

scifi · February 2003

Looks great! Can you tell me how you came to decide upon the Clarions?

gatorjcb · February 2003

gkatz1 & raddboy41, Thanks for the tips! Sounds like I can do alot better without the factory DVD.

Raddboy -- your system is awesome! Do you have hookups for a game controller like PS2?

kinnman · February 2003

Gatorjbc, I opted for this all-in-one option. It has RCA inputs for video games - you can barely see them in the rear left corner. Price was $1200 + install. As gkatz explained, they cut off the last sunglass compartment, actually the last two with this unit, it's fairly long. (still have 3 sunglass compartments left!!!!) The unit also comes with the FM Modulator and a remote control.

http://www.audiovox.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/ExecMacro/product_main- - page.d2w/input?prrfnbr=1209803

raddboy41 · February 2003

I decided on the Clarions by recommendation from friends on other websites. Fitment had a lot to do with it as did the price point. $700 for both. Features are also excellent as they have 2 RCA inputs for video, selectable 16/9 - 4/3 aspect ratio, adjustable color/contrast/tint/brightness and a remote eye for the Hi-Fi VCR which is tucked away in the rear compartment.

My kids aren't old enough for the PS2 yet (I am!) but the the DVD player has Aux. RCA inputs that will provide for the PS2-3-4 or 5 in the future! :^)

chinee · February 2003

luckylou,

Haven't checked this board in quite a while so just saw your postings.... I think I saw that you're from Florida, but I'm not sure what part of the state.

I'm in So.Florida, Ft. Lauderdale area, and I purchased my SEQ in October '02 from Edmorse Delray Toyota, but through my credit union's car buying service, paid invoice + $700, no dealer fee. I found it to be great deal.

A month later I was toying with the idea of trading my 2002 Acura TL for a Highlander, and I believe I was offered a very good deal (just about invoice), at Maroone Toyota in Weston. It's wasn't so much the dealership, but the salesman that made the difference, a guy by the name of Benjamin Bland. No games...no tricky negotiations,... he offered, I countered, then they countered...with the deal I wanted. In the end, having two SUV's in the family wasn't the best decision, so I kept the TL, but only to trade it just last week for an Infiniti G35.

Both my dealer experiences were great, but given that you're leaning towards an LC, the market, and subsequently pricing, may be different from the SEQ or Highlander. Yet I do not hesitate in recommending either dealership to you.

Good luck in your continued search!

Toyota Sequoia

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