2008 Toyota Sequoia

The 2008 Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior, reliability, and towing capacity. The Sequoia was offered with two engine options: a 4.7L V8 producing 276 horsepower and 314 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.7L V8 producing 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Sequoia for its comfortable ride and ample cargo space, but some common complaints include its large size, fuel economy, and age-related maintenance issues.

Engine

4.7L V8

• Exhaust Manifold Cracking/Leaking
  • Description/Symptoms: A cracked exhaust manifold can cause a ticking noise, especially when the engine is cold. Leaks can also result in reduced fuel economy and performance.
  • Solution: Replace the cracked exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L V8

• Cam Tower Oil Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the cam tower area onto the exhaust manifold, potentially causing a burning smell.
  • Solution: Reseal the cam towers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Injection Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light with codes related to the secondary air injection system. The pump may fail due to moisture intrusion.
  • Solution: Replace the air injection pump and potentially the air injection valves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. May also experience transmission slipping or difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sagging, a warning light on the dashboard, and the air compressor running constantly.
  • Solution: Replace the air springs, air compressor, or height sensors as needed. Conversion to coil springs is also an option.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Air suspension repair: $800 - $2000+; Coil spring conversion: $1000 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Auto Leveling System Leak (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Automatic Rear Leveling Fails, causing rear of the car to sag when weight is in the back.
  • Solution: Replace leaking components, such as the shocks or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: One or more power door locks failing to operate, either not locking or unlocking.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Frame
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive rust on the frame, especially in areas where road salt is used.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, rust repair, rustproofing, or in extreme cases, frame replacement (not economically feasible in most cases).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Rust repair: $500 - $2000+; Frame replacement: Not typically performed due to cost.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Dashboard replacement: $800 - $2000+; Dashboard cover: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Toyota Sequoia is a capable and spacious SUV, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Engine issues like cam tower leaks (5.7L V8) and exhaust manifold cracks (4.7L V8) can be costly. Transmission problems like torque converter failure can also arise. Suspension issues, particularly with the air suspension system (if equipped), are another area to inspect. Rust on the frame is a concern, especially in regions with road salt use. The severity of these issues varies, but potential repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand dollars for major repairs like engine or suspension overhauls.