2004 Toyota Sequoia

The 2004 Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV known for its reliability, spaciousness, and towing capacity. It came standard with a 4.7L 2UZ-FE V8 engine producing 240 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque, although some later models produced 282 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its comfortable ride and long-term durability, while some common complaints include lower gas mileage and certain age-related issues.

Engine

4.7L 2UZ-FE V8

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, leading to a burning smell and potential oil loss.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the exhaust manifold, causing exhaust leaks, a ticking noise (especially when cold), and potentially reduced fuel efficiency.
  • Solution: Replace the cracked exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle might experience poor fuel economy, a check engine light with codes related to oxygen sensor malfunctions, and rough idling.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• A340E 4-Speed Automatic

  • Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears or shifts harshly. This can be caused by worn-out clutches or low transmission fluid.
    • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush/change or rebuild/replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for fluid flush; $2,000 - $4,000+ for rebuild/replacement
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Lower Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of the lower ball joints can cause clunking noises in the front suspension, uneven tire wear, and compromised handling.
  • Solution: Replace the lower ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, compressor failure, or leaks in the air springs (bags), leading to a bumpy ride and potential damage to the air suspension system.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty compressor, air springs, or sensors. Some owners convert to a coil spring suspension.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per air spring; $400 - $1000+ for compressor; $1000 - $2000+ for coil spring conversion
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows stop working or operate intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Driver’s Side Master Power Window Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The driver’s side master power window switch might fail, causing inability to control other windows from the driver’s seat, or intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Replace the driver’s side master power window switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage/Frame
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust accumulation on the frame and undercarriage, especially in areas with heavy road salt use, leading to structural weakening.
  • Solution: Rust remediation, repair, or frame replacement (in severe cases).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on severity, ranging from $200 - $500+ for rust removal and coating to $3,000 - $8,000+ for frame replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing on the dashboard surface due to sun exposure and temperature changes.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$500 for dash cover; $800 - $1500+ for dashboard replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Toyota Sequoia generally exhibits issues related to its age. Engine issues such as valve cover gasket leaks and exhaust manifold cracks are relatively common and can be moderately expensive to repair. Transmission issues, especially slipping, can be more costly, especially if a full rebuild or replacement is needed. Suspension issues, particularly concerning the lower ball joints and (if equipped) the rear air suspension, can also lead to significant repair expenses. Rust is a concern, especially in regions with harsh winters, and can necessitate costly frame repairs or replacement. The overall severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potential safety concerns if critical components like suspension or brakes are affected. Repair costs can vary considerably, but addressing these common problems proactively can help maintain the vehicle’s reliability and longevity.