2012 Toyota Sequoia

Introduction: The 2012 Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior, powerful engine options, and off-road capabilities. It is available with a 4.6L V8 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, or a 5.7L V8 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Despite its strengths, the Sequoia has faced various issues reported by owners.

Engine

• 4.6L V8:
  • Timing belt failure: The timing belt can fail prematurely, causing catastrophic engine damage. Symptoms include engine noise, rough idling, and loss of power. Solution: Timing belt replacement. Estimated cost: $800 - $1,200. Recalls: None Found
  • Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil leaks. Symptoms include white smoke from the exhaust, low coolant levels, and engine overheating. Solution: Intake manifold gasket replacement. Estimated cost: $300 - $600. Recalls: None Found
• 5.7L V8:
  • Connecting rod bearing failure: Connecting rod bearings can fail, leading to engine knocking, seized pistons, and catastrophic engine damage. Symptoms include a knocking sound when accelerating or under load. Solution: Engine rebuild or replacement. Estimated cost: $5,000 - $10,000+. Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 6-speed Automatic Transmission:
  • Transmission slipping: The transmission may slip gears or fail to engage properly. Symptoms include delayed or hesitant shifting, loss of power, and transmission shuddering. Solution: Transmission repair or replacement. Estimated cost: $2,000 - $4,000+. Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear leaf spring failure: The rear leaf springs can fail, causing the rear of the vehicle to sag and affect handling. Symptoms include a sagging rear end, uneven tire wear, and rough ride quality. Solution: Leaf spring replacement. Estimated cost: $500 - $1,000 per leaf spring. Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure: The alternator may fail to charge the battery, leading to electrical system malfunctions. Symptoms include a weak or dead battery, dim headlights, and electrical component failures. Solution: Alternator replacement. Estimated cost: $500 - $800. Recalls: None Found
• Battery drain: The vehicle’s battery may drain prematurely, causing the vehicle to fail to start. Symptoms include difficulty starting the vehicle, loss of power, and battery warning lights. Solution: Electrical system inspection and repair. Estimated cost: $100 - $500. Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door handle failure: The exterior door handles can fail to open the doors, trapping passengers inside. Symptoms include stuck door handles or doors that fail to open properly. Solution: Door handle replacement. Estimated cost: $200 - $500 per door. Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof drain hose failure: The sunroof drain hoses can clog or disconnect, causing water to leak into the interior. Symptoms include water dripping from the sunroof or ceiling, wet carpet, and mold growth. Solution: Sunroof drain hose cleaning or replacement. Estimated cost: $100 - $300. Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 2012 Toyota Sequoia has faced several issues related to its engine, transmission, and other components. The engine and transmission issues, such as timing belt failure and connecting rod bearing failure, can be severe and expensive to repair. The electrical and exterior issues are generally less serious but can still cause inconvenience. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and consider the potential costs of repairs before purchasing a used 2012 Sequoia.