Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota sequoia. The contact stated that after being service under a manufacturer's recall for frame corrosion, the sway bar became fractured and a hole was found in the frame due to excessive corrosion. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the technician verified the failure and advised the consumer toyota denied the replacement frame. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage was 199,000. Updated 01/07/14*lj the consumer stated he had the vehicle inspected early on, and was informed no rust was present, and the vehicle was given an undercoat treatment to the frame as opposed to a replacement. Several months later, while on a trip, the consumer heard a significant noise and vibration while turning and going over bumps. Upon his return home, he took the vehicle t his mechanic, where he was informed the sway bar had detached from the frame. He informed the consumer there was significant rust in the frame creating a hole and the sway bar could not be re-attached. The consumer believed the undercoat treatment the vehicle was given was ineffective in inhibiting further rust. The consumer was informed the undercoat inhibitor applied to his vehicle was no longer used due to a short shelf life. Update 01/09/14
2002 Toyota Sequoia body complaints
Page 3 of 4: complaints 41 to 70 of 95, newest first, as owners wrote them.
Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota sequoia. The contact stated the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for an unrelated repair and they noticed that the entire frame was completely covered with rust. There was a limited service campaign issued by the manufacturer related to rust corrosion to the frame. The vehicle was not repaired because additional parts were required at the owner's expense in order to perform the remedy repair. The manufacturer was notified of the defect. The approximate failure mileage was 102,000.
I received a recall notice from toyota claiming there was a problem with the frame rusting on my 2002 toyota sequoia limited. I took the vehicle in for their required inspection and they said it needs a new frame. They are in the process of placing a new frame on the vehicle. I stated to the service department that I refuse to pay for any additional add on expenses as a result of there tampering. I also stated and filed a complaint with toyota that the vehicle will not run properly because of the its age, mileage and working with corroded parts will not fit, seal and tighten properly. Toyota also stated that after the new frame is installed they will not service any problems with the vehicle if it is not directly related to the frame. Unacceptable terms. They should fix at their expense any problems encountered now andin the future as a result of this recall. They should also offer compensation as they previously had down with other makes and models several years ago.
My 2002 toyota sequoias under carriage has excessive rust. I have a family with 4 kids and is very dangerous to drive and can lead to catastrophic failure,I need help immediately and this is a known problem with these cars.
Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota sequoia. The contact stated that the rear plastic door handle failed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer several times for the failure and the latch was replaced each time, but the failure always recurred. The vehicle was not further repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 80,000 and the current mileage was 174,941.
Rusted frame, undercarriage on 2002 toyota sequoia. 100,000 mi. Toyota wants $2,500.00 to replace for parts around frame not covered. This limited service campaign is a farce. Consumers who get inspected and/or drive vehicle are liable if there is an injury or incident. They should be forced to buy back vehicles that are rusted, not charge consumers for the repairs and/or replacement of rusted parts to replace frame. It would cost them less to buy back then to replace. Please consumers complain about this. Toyota is not being accountable for this problem on their sequoia. This is not a free service,replacement. As many consumers will be required to pay something to replace. Currently they are not required to buy back, it is their own remedy and a good one,as once inspected and found to be rusted the consumer is responsible. Please help ntsb to stop toyota from this unfair practice! For those consumers that have a rusted out vehicle, make them buy it back to keep the roads safe and the consumers. It is unjust and dangerous to allow this remedy to continue if it is not a totally free replacement includung the parts to repair and make safe. Should not cost any consumer to recify the problem, please please investigate this!! My vehicle is now worthless, and I am not or will not be the only one. Toyota is getting away with shirking their responsibilty to the consumer who purchased in good faith. Please have mercy on us!! This is not fair!!! And it is dangerous and should be unlawful for toyota to conduct business like this.. This is not a free frame replacement to every one. They should be compelled to replace at no cost to consumers. Some but not all are free due to degrees of corrosion which clearly is dangerous and unsafe and if it cannot be remedied by the frame replacement, a buy back should be instituted for the above. Thank you.
My vehicle frame was replaced by toyota due to a recall. When I got the car back, I noticed a whining sound, but did not think much of it since the mechanic said it might take a month for the frame to settle. I returned one month later to have the whining sound checked and was told the power steering lines were rusted and needed replaced at the cost odf$ 750. Toyota assured me that the sequoia should last a long time!!! I no longer feel safe driving this vehicle. I wonder if the rusted power steering lines are part of the rusted frame recall. I have really loved my sequoia, but I do not want to pay for any more repairs!!!! Please let me know if others(either the toyota truck frame or sequoia frame), have had a similar problem.
My vehicle was recalled for frame rot. Toyota would not buy the vehicle back. Instead they spent $11,000.00 +/- repairing the vehicle and giving it back to me. The recall was for all of the northeast and upper midwest. Sand and salt use on the roads causes the frames to rot and make the vehicle unsafe to drive. I want toyota be forced to buy the vehicles back instead of repairing them. I know my local dealership has done over a dozen recalls.
This vehicle has a rusted frame which toyota will replace. They will not replace without customer cost several parts affected by the frame replacement. This is thousands of dollars required by the customer that otherwise would not be required. I want toyota to pay for the frame and the other required parts.
I have been a loyal toyota owner and had 7 toyotas so far from a 1990 white corolla, 1996 white land cruiser, 2007 white rav4. I currently own a 2010 white prius, a 2006 white venza, a 2005 silver prius, and this 2002 black sequoia limited. After spending almost $1500 to eliminate the shake @65 MPH from a set of new tires, 1mags that is warped, and alignment to no avail, I research this site and found out that the extensive frame rust that I just paid my mechanic over $500 to chip and 3m rustproofed is a very common issue in this car. Initially, I found a 3"x1" hole in the front driver side frame and upon my investigation I was able to retrieve a 2"x1" rusted piece of metal inside the frame. Looks like they forgot to put a drain or toyota used a sub-par frame. When my mechanic lifted the car, he showed me an extensive rust all over the underside of the vehicle. It really gave me chills seeing all the parts rusted and affected and felt unsafe driving the car. What I don't understand is if they recalled the similar framed tundra the federal safety agency campaign id number: 09v444000, why didn't they included the sequoia? Sequoia should have higher priority since it carries up to eight passengers and a much more expensive car. I thought toyota cares and sequoia is specially made to haul families...I took it to interstate toyota where it was purchased and serviced all it's life and don the manager told me that there will be a recall coming soon. He told me that they will order the frame and to call after 2 weeks. I just called yesterday and he told me that it has not been approved yet by corporate. I'm asking everyone with similar sequoia to check the frames and file your complaints here to speed up the process. Toyota, please restore my waning loyalty to your company and restore my trust in my sequoia for my family's safety. I'm scared to drive it until it is fixed! Help!
Over a year and a half ago my husband noticed rust developing on the frame of his vehicle. He repeatedly mentioned this to the dealership, whose response was there are no recalls so you should be ok. In december during the vehicle's maintenance the dealership informed my husband that the frame was rusting out. There was no proposed solution other than to scrap the thing. Two weeks later we received a letter from toyota stating that they were conducting research regarding frames rusting out on like vehicle. We were instructed to take the vehicle to the dealership for inspection and possible frame patching or replacement. The dealership received the ok to replace the frame. However multiple parts around the frame are also rusted out. The cost for complete repair including the frame is 15k. We were told that we would not be responsible for the cost of the frame replacement, however we would have to pay for everything else, around 10k. It would seem if the frame has a known rust issue, other parts on the vehicle would have the same problem. Why would the company not be responsible to pay the total cost of the repair. We have contacted toyota and are waiting to talk to a case manager.
Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota sequoia. The contact stated that while having the tires rotated, the mechanic stated that the frame was rusted and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for inspection and they stated that the vehicle was unsafe to be on the road. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified and they stated that they would replace the frame free of charge. The failure mileage was 76,115.
While getting a routine oil change at toyota of wallingford inct I was shown frame rot near the rear strut and other declining areas of rust/ rot. It is on record and a call was made to toyota which nothing was done as far as recalls go. The tundra which has the same frame has been recalled.
Our 2002 toyota sequoia has a completely rusted out frame, rear differential and other parts such as brake lines etc. While driving on the highway the rear differential exploded and the car would not drive any further. I put the car in park, turned off the car and the car kept rolling despite being in park. I applied the emergency brake to stop the car. The rear differential housing was completely rusted through and leaking fluid. We then discovered that in addition the frame of the car was completely rusted through. The car is no longer safe to drive because of the rusted frame and under carriage. Our dealership has been wonderful and rented me a car and will replace the frame but toyota is saying that I am responsible for the differential replacement.
Dealer reports that frame (crossmember) is rotted to the point of being unsafe to drive.
I have had to replace the rear latch on my door 5 times. The body shop says that the rear door is so rusted out this time, that it cannot be fixed. This is a known problem to toyota and they ignore it. I have seen many websites with the same complaint. It is a poor design and the door is rusting from the inside!
Just purchased my 2002 sequoia with 144,000 miles on the vehicle; noticed there was a bit of rust in the rear door jams next to the portion of the wheel well, not too terribly concerned as it seems to be just under the paint and in very small amounts. I have been reading on various forums of the tundra rust issue and how this exists on the sequoias as well without any recourse being available, so I took a look under my fresh purchase to find that I indeed had an alarming amount of rust on the undercarriage of the truck on the rear differential, weld seams and major portions of the frame; more than I would expect even for a toyota. I don't quite know the details of exactly how similar this frame is to tundra's but I would certainly like to think that there would be some sort of provision in place by now to sort this out as it is very similar to what tundra owners are experiencing and judging by the amount of complaints I've been able to dig up thus far (9 for '03 my, 6 for '02 my and 12 for '01 my sequoia) this really cannot be a coincidence. I bought this thing because my dad has had two 4runners that ran forever (his '97 is still going strong with almost 300,000 on it) but now I worry I'll barely be able to pay it off before it rots out from under me. What gives toyota?
The rear frame has excessive corrosion along longitudinal structural members and the cross member above the spare tire.
Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota sequoia. The contact stated the vehicle was taken to a mechanic for routine maintenance when the contact was told that the entire frame was severely rusted. The contact was also advised that the vehicle was not safe to operate. The contact did not call the manufacturer. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and the current mileages were 104,000.
The front brake rotors needed replacing the mechanic called me indicating the calipers also needed replacing due to rust. Also the entire frame of the vehicle is rusted he indicated other toyota customers had the same problem frame corrosion. I called toyota and filed a complaint, I found out toyota had replaced tundra frames (same frame as the sequoia) but they would not take responsibility for my problem. The vehicle has only 89,000 miles and is very well maintained. The frame is in very bad shape I feel it is unsafe to drive. I understand other toyota sequoia owners have the same problem. I am very disappointed in a very expensive vehicle. Another reason to buy american!
Headlight relay goes out causing headlights to shutoff while driving. For the 2nd time in a year. Part was replaced with a new part. Rear door will not latch and rattles. Rear latch assembly was replaced. It does not shut or seal so carbon monoxide enters the cabin. This has happened 3 times. Brake calipers seize up front driver and passenger side, rear driver side.
Rust in the rear frame and tailgate area is rendering my vehicle unusable and unsafe to drive. The tailgate drain holes quickly clogged with environmental debris resulting in excess moisture in the tailgate and caused all internal parts to rust to the point that the tailgate latch cable/handle has broken twice and the rear window is not functional. Recently I realized that underneath the original frame paint, my frame has severe rust. Also very concerning, I recently realized that holes manufactured into the rear of the frame are allowing sand to accumulate in the frame. The sand is holding moisture and I have not found a way to get it out of the frame. My rear cross member and spare tire carrier are also seriously rusted. Most concerning is that I pull a landscape trailer and my vehicle has serious rust on the trailer hitch and the frame area where the hitch connects to the vehicle. When I took my vehicle to the local toyota dealership years ago, they told me that there was nothing they could do as my rust issues were a result of the area in which I live. I paid nearly $40,000 for this vehicle new in 2002 and have cared for it very well. It is deplorable that the poor design of the frame and tailgate will render this vehicle to the scrap yard well before its time...if it doesn't kill someone first.
The vehicle was examined at our local toyota dealer on 1/5/2012 because of making a grinding noise and shaking with acceleration at speeds above 20 MPH. It was found to have extensive rust damage to the frame with a large rust hole in the right front area at the sway bar bushing bracket. The rear differential housing was rusted and leaking fluid, the right and left sway bars were broken, both front brake calipers were stuck and the rotors badly rusted. Repairs for the frame alone were estimated at over $10,000 with more than that amount to take care of the other issues. This sequoia has been well maintained on a regular schedule, washed regularly and kept at night in a garage. The body and interior are in excellent condition. The car has only 76,000 miles on the odometer. It was quite a shock to go from a car we relied upon to carry us safely in winter weather to one which has had to be abandoned for scrap. I understand that frame rust issues have been a serious problem for many toyota models including the tacoma and tundra resulting in recalls. The sequoia needs to be added to this list.
Driving on ny thruway transmission went. Towed to nearest service station where new transmission was installed after which we were told that the chassis was extremely rusty. Two days later, the engine light came on - took car to sears to find out trans fluid leak and frame rotted and declined servicing vehicle. Followed up at toyota dealer for leak and frame inspection. Technician found power steering line leaking power steering fluid and excessive frame perforation / corrosion. They would not work on it. Technician installed a new hook lock and cable assembly as hood would not lock.
My 2002 toyota sequoia has extensive rust on the frame. Other sequoia owners have been advised that their sequoia with rusty frame is not safe to drive. Toyota tundra from same year, built on same frame have been safety recalled due to the extensive rusty frame. Updated 12/29/11 *bf the consumer stated since filing the complaint, he had his vehicle inspected at the dealer and it was determined the rust on the vehicle was surface rust and there was no loss of structural integrity. Updated 12/30/11
2002 toyota sequoia sr5 - 66,462m. Mechanic discovered that the frame of this vehicle is completely rusted. Holes in the frame and lots of rust in key joins compromising the safety of vehicle. Toyota corp. Has acknowledged the frames of the tacomas and tundras had a prematurely rusting problem. The toyota sequoia have the same frame. Toyota issued a recall on these two vehicles but not the sequoias. Upon contacting toyota corp. They asked the vehicle be taken to a toyota dealership for frame inspection. The inspection report say: customer req. Inspection - -> looks like hammer hole in bottom of lt rail @ trans mount cross member lots of rot/ missing metal from ft rt sway bar mount lots of rot at rr cross member (that spare hangs from) where meets rail on lt side. My mechanic said that in all his life working with vehicles has never seen a vehicle so deteriorated from rust. Advised to contact toyota because of the tundra's recall. Toyota corp. Will not address my vehicle nor those of other sequoia owners that I found on internet forums with the exactly the same problems. There have been a few instances where toyota has replaced the frame in vehicles with higher mileage and older vehicle. Toyota corp. Claims because the vehicle is out of the 36k mile warranty they are not responsible for the premature rotting of the frame. Vehicle has been driven an average of 7k miles a year, maintained properly and in mint condition. The sequoias should be included in the frame recall from toyota since it is the same frame and manufacturer of the tacoma and tundra models which toyota has accepted these vehicles were manufactured with substandard frames which leads to premature rotting. I ask your agency to further investigate this frame issue which may be a serious safety violation specially for those unaware that their vehicles are about to collapse because of frame rot.
5th/rear door flew open sometime between coming to a normal stop at 40 MPH emptying all the contents of the rear. The door would not open for two days or so prior to the incident, (for the second time in about a month).
Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota sequoia. The contact stated that the majority of the frame was rusted at points where the frame was bolted to the vehicle. There was also rust on the rear differential and the front steering rack and pinion. The vehicle was not inspected or repaired for the failure. The failure mileage was unknown, but the current mileage was 155,000.
Failed components: premature frame rot I'm an owner of a 2002 toyota sequoia located in the northeast us. I recently learned that this vehicle will not pass state safety inspection, due to rust holes in the frame. I take very good care of this vehicle, keeping it washed especially in winter months. The body is in spotless condition with no rust. Toyota blames the heavy use of salt in the ne. This is no excuse...I have a 1990 minivan that is garaged along with and driven similar to my toyota sequoia and the minivan's frame has very little rust. Toyota needs to recall and/or repair sequoia's as they did tacoma's and tundra's. I depend upon this vehicle for towing, but have also been instructed not to tow anything, until the frame is fixed or replaced. Your investigation and assistance with the resolution to this serious safety issue will be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time and consideration.
I have a 2002 toyota sequoia. The frame, undercarriage and hitch are all rusted. The undercoating peels right off at the carwash. I asked my toyota dealer about it when it was in for a oil change and he said nothing to worry about. Every year it is getting worse and my husband said it is something to worry about. Is toyota going to stand behind there products? I am worry this year about it passing inspection.
VIN decoder
See the problems and recalls for an exact car
Buying a used 2002 Toyota Sequoia?
Check the exact car before you pay: accidents, salvage or flood titles, odometer readings and previous owners.
Check its history