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2011 Toyota Sequoia

The 2011 Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior, towing capacity, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability. Engine options include a 4.6L V8 producing 310 horsepower and 327 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 dislike its large size and fuel economy.

Engine

4.6L V8

  • No Issues Found

5.7L V8

  • Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idling, check engine light.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Oil Leak from Timing Chain Cover
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the vehicle, visible oil around the front of the engine, low oil level.
    • Solution: Reseal or replace the timing chain cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

  • Torque Converter Shudder
    • Description/Symptoms: Shaking or vibrating at low speeds, especially during light acceleration.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter is sometimes required. In some cases, a transmission flush can mitigate the symptoms.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Compressor Failure (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, ride height issues, “air suspension” warning light.
    • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Rear Air Suspension Bags Leaking (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, especially overnight; hissing sound from the rear suspension; ride height issues.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking air suspension bags.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per bag.

Electrical

  • Power Window Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Window not operating or operating intermittently.
    • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Alternator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Battery light on, dimming headlights, difficulty starting, stalling
    • Solution: Replace the alternator
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+

Exterior

  • Rust on Undercarriage
    • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on frame components and other undercarriage parts.
    • Solution: Rust repair or prevention treatments (rust converter, undercoating). Severe cases may require frame repair or replacement (rare).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ (depending on severity)

Interior

  • No Issues Found

Summary

The 2011 Toyota Sequoia generally holds up well but has a few areas of concern. The 5.7L V8 engine can experience oil leaks and sensor failures. The 6-speed automatic transmission may develop a torque converter shudder. The air suspension, if equipped, is a potential failure point. Electrical issues like power window motor failure are also possible. The undercarriage is susceptible to rust, especially in areas with road salt. The severity of these issues ranges from relatively minor (sensor replacements, window motors) to more significant (transmission or air suspension repairs). Costs to repair can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the issue.

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