2009 Toyota Sequoia

The 2009 Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV known for its spaciousness, reliability, and towing capability. Engine options include a 4.7L V8 producing 276 hp and 314 lb-ft of torque and a 5.7L V8 outputting 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Sequoia’s comfortable ride and ample cargo space, but some find the fuel economy and large size challenging.

Engine

4.7L V8

• Oil Leak from Timing Chain Cover
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking near the front of the engine, visible drips on the ground, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain cover gasket and resealing the cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L V8

• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated, rough idling, stalling, and poor engine performance. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0340, P0345, P0346, P0348, P0349.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty camshaft position sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Cracking/Leaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Loud ticking or hissing noise from the engine bay, especially on cold starts. Reduced engine performance and fuel economy. Visible cracks on the exhaust manifold.
  • Solution: Replacing the cracked exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: A shuddering or vibrating sensation during light acceleration, especially at lower speeds (around 30-45 mph). May be more noticeable when the transmission is warm.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter. Performing a transmission fluid flush may temporarily alleviate the issue in some cases, but replacement is the most reliable fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, air suspension warning light illuminated, and the air compressor running constantly or not at all.
  • Solution: Replacing the air suspension compressor. Also check for leaks in the air lines and air springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Suspension Air Spring Leaks (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, especially overnight. Hissing sound from the air springs.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking air springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ (per pair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power door locks not working properly on one or more doors. The door may not lock or unlock with the power switch or remote.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Liftgate Rust (Especially around the license plate area)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the rear liftgate, particularly around the license plate lights and handle.
  • Solution: Repairing the rust damage (sanding, filling, and repainting) or replacing the entire liftgate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the severity and chosen solution.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, usually starting around the speaker grilles or in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard or installing a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on whether you replace the dashboard or use a cover.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Toyota Sequoia has several common issues. Engine problems like exhaust manifold leaks and camshaft sensor failures can cause performance issues. Transmission problems, such as torque converter shudder can be expensive to repair. Suspension problems, usually on models with air suspension, can also lead to significant repair costs. Electrical and interior problems, such as power door lock actuator failure and cracked dashboards, can cause inconveniences. While the severity and cost of these issues vary, it is important for potential buyers to be aware of these potential problems before purchasing a used 2009 Toyota Sequoia.