2016 Toyota Sequoia — Should You Buy One?
Typical asking price: $24,000–$36,000. This is one of the more reliable vehicles in its class — here's what to watch for anyway.
Kestrel Take
Old-school, over-built, and nearly indestructible — the Sequoia's 5.7L V8 and conventional automatic are famous for running past 250k, and the whole truck is simpler and tougher than its GM/Ford rivals. It's thirsty and the design is dated, but if you want a full-size SUV that just won't quit, this is the one. Buy the maintained one and keep it forever.
Known Issues for the 2016 Toyota Sequoia
Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents.
The 5.7L drinks fuel. Not a fault — it's the price of the durability.
Repair cost range: Ongoing
The platform and Entune system are old. Character.
Repair cost range: $0-$400
Some high-mile 5.7Ls develop minor exhaust or gasket leaks; usually minor.
Repair cost range: $200-$800
Big-truck brakes and tires cost more.
Repair cost range: $300-$1,000
Walk-Away Red Flags
- ✗Neglected oil despite the durable V8
- ✗Frame rust (inspect underbody in salt states)
- ✗Tow abuse with no records
Good Signs
- ✓Documented service
- ✓Clean frame, quiet V8
- ✓One or two owners, honest history
Found a specific Toyota Sequoia?
This page covers what goes wrong on the 2016 Toyota Sequoia in general. The Kestrel report covers this specific car— the asking price vs. market, the photos, the seller's description, and a BUY / NEGOTIATE / WALK AWAY verdict with a negotiation script.
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Known issues on this page are based on documented owner reports, NHTSA complaints, class-action records, and manufacturer technical service bulletins. Individual vehicles vary. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always worth doing.
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