[DannyD303]

Nice to meet you all,

I'm driving a 2019 4Runner right now but we have kid #2 coming along soon. I've also had my in-laws living with me since the lock down started...
I was originally looking at 2nd gen Sequoias, specifically the TRD Sport versions but as I'm driving 60+ miles a day I just cant pull the trigger due to the MPG's that they get. I know the 4Runner isn't great but I'm still averaging more or very close to 19+ mpg per tank. 2 other factors that put me off the 2nd gens is the price and size. the size is both a pro and a con.

All these things made me think that maybe I should get a 1st gen. It gets me the 3rd row, its bigger than the 4Runner but not double the size and the 4.7L V8 would get me close to the same MPG as the 4Runner. Added bonus is since I have positive equity I could pay off the Sequoia in just a few months with the same monthly payment that I'm making now.

The wife hasn't completely shot the idea down but she comes from a family that was able, and believes when it comes to purchasing a vehicle, new is the only way to go. SO when I tell her I want to sell my 3 year old vehicle and buy one that's 14 years old you can see the gears grinding in her head. (You can actually see smoke when I tell her I want to buy a Nissan Skyline GTR from 1990). Her main concerns are reliability and safety for our kids.

Let me simplify my original babble.

I'm thinking about going from a 2019 4Runner to a 1st Gen Sequoia. Pro's; Bigger, V8, 3rd row. Cons; Age, safety (?), miles
Can anyone tell me about the safety and common problems they've had with their 1st Gen. And maybe what to look for when shopping for one.

Thank you!

 

[SilverSasquatch]

There are plenty of threads here with owners discussing the problems they have with their trucks. Some common issues which you can look up about are:

Frame Rust
Radiator Failure
VSC module failure
Rear Hatch repairs
O2 sensors

Some issues have probably been addressed in vehicles on the road today such as upper control arms, bad brake rotors, and transmission issues. Most of the vehicles on the road have age-related problems rather than mechanical failures, such as cracked or brittle hoses, CV leaks, and suspension bushings. If you look at higher mileage examples, check if they have any service records addressing valve cover gaskets or water pump/timing chain replacement.

Keep in mind that 1st gen Sequoias are essentially late 90s designs and you'll be giving up a lot of the modern accommodation, technology, and refinement that you and your family have in your 4Runner. If you can come to terms with that, then these old Sequoias do just fine.

 

[LookingUp]

I don't think you'd be giving up much in terms of luxury or modern amenities. You would probably just lose the active lane assist/cruise control features, if your current 4runner is new enough to have those items stock. I have an 03 limited and it is more comfortable and more luxurious than any 4runner I've ever been in (including limited trims and a 2017 TRD Pro). That's with 395k miles. You should go drive a few of them. Depending on you budget, there are a bunch coming on the market now from original owners. I think you'll find the 4runners to be similar but a bit spartan by comparison.

A couple things to consider - 01 and 02 are considered the least desirable of the first gen. There are many high mileage examples but, they have smaller brakes, smaller ball joints, and a weaker transmission. The 03 and 04 years have the updated 4th gear in the transmission and bigger front brakes. When you get to 05, they did a facelift and slightly modified some of the body lines. You can tell it is the same vehicle but they made a few changes aesthetically. They also updated to a 5 speed transmission and added VVT to 4.7, upping the HP and torque numbers a bit. One thing to consider if you're looking at a limited trim is that the facelifted models will often have rear air suspension and 2nd row bucket seats with a console. If the rear seats are an issue I believe that you can swap in a normal bench seat. The air suspension will probably need to be repaired or replaced with coils at some point.

If you're on a budget, I think an 03 or 04 with relatively low miles (around 200k) would be a great option. Especially if you can see that it has been cared for responsibly. If you've got some cash to spend, I would seek out an 06 or 07 pearl paint limited truck. They sold some of them with the Lexus pearl paint and they look good. Those can be had with low miles - I've been seeing them with 150k regularly.

Brings me to mileage - you shouldn't be afraid of any amount of miles on these trucks. The key is that it has been cared for and that ITS NOT RUSTY. I can't emphasize that enough. Don't even consider any truck that has resided in a state where they salt the roads.

These are absolutely the best value for a reliable, generally capable SUV. Chevys in this price range are falling apart and most of the Fords are already in the scrap yard. These things are built with land cruiser quality but specifically for the American market.

 

[DannyD303]

Thank you guys.

I did find a few threads talking about similar warnings after I posted my thread.

I'm located in Ohio which sucks because trying to find a vehicle that wasn't near salt..... I'm looking a few hundred miles away from me. I found a mint 2007 Sequoia with under 100k miles but of course, its in California.

I agree with LookingUp, I was actually surprised how little I have in the 4Runner as far as technology. I wish I spent a little bit more time researching because I could have saved thousands and had a lot more features if I bought a 2020 OF Premium 4Runner but live and learn. The number 1 thing I want is Android Auto which for a few hundred dollars I can get from an aftermarket head unit.

The main reason I'm looking at going back in time is I'm tired of car payments and worrying about every flaw on my vehicle. I like to keep my vehicles clean but not caring about how much value I lose every time I hear a rock bounce off the hood will make for a much more enjoyable commute everyday.

Thank you for replying!

 

[LookingUp]

Thank you guys.

I did find a few threads talking about similar warnings after I posted my thread.

I'm located in Ohio which sucks because trying to find a vehicle that wasn't near salt..... I'm looking a few hundred miles away from me. I found a mint 2007 Sequoia with under 100k miles but of course, its in California.

I agree with LookingUp, I was actually surprised how little I have in the 4Runner as far as technology. I wish I spent a little bit more time researching because I could have saved thousands and had a lot more features if I bought a 2020 OF Premium 4Runner but live and learn. The number 1 thing I want is Android Auto which for a few hundred dollars I can get from an aftermarket head unit.

The main reason I'm looking at going back in time is I'm tired of car payments and worrying about every flaw on my vehicle. I like to keep my vehicles clean but not caring about how much value I lose every time I hear a rock bounce off the hood will make for a much more enjoyable commute everyday.

Thank you for replying!

Take a look at Craigslist or FB marketplace in the NC and SC region. I see lots of them. You have to sort through the 2wd trucks (assuming you want 4wd). If the ad doesn't specify than it's probably 2wd. It also usually says "4wd" on the back hatch, bottom right. There are some buttons in the console that give it away, too. Depending on where you are in Ohio, it isn't a terrible drive.

 

[IreneO]

The 07's came standard with front side airbags and curtain side airbags for the 1st and 2nd rows, they were optional on 05-06. I went for an '07 for that reason (kids). Had to fly to Wichita from Seattle in '14 since I wanted a specific color, year, and options, plus whenever a Sequoia hit a local lot, it'd be sold within hours at that time.

 

[joewildlife]

Funny, when my Sequoia wears out I'm getting a 4Runner. I can get by with the V6. I just posted on the Sequoia problems thread which should be near the top. I think I got a comparative lemon, or I'm just going through the typical 200K miles repairs. Still, even after I do the wheel bearing, alternator, and other repairs recently, it doesn't add up to ONE new 4Runner payment, so there is that. Overall the 06 Sequoia drives just like brand new. I would definitely recommend you get an 05 or newer with the 5 speed transmission.

 

[joewildlife]

Funny, when my Sequoia wears out I'm getting a 4Runner. I can get by with the V6. I just posted on the Sequoia problems thread which should be near the top. I think I got a comparative lemon, or I'm just going through the typical 200K miles repairs. Still, even after I do the wheel bearing, alternator, and other repairs recently, it doesn't add up to ONE new 4Runner payment, so there is that. Overall the 06 Sequoia drives just like brand new. I would definitely recommend you get an 05 or newer with the 5 speed transmission.

Oh, lifetime gas mileage in the Sequoia is about 15.5 according to the readout. The Tundra gets less.

 

[Jpeterferrell]

I think you could be very happy with something like what I have - an 04 Limited, 4WD, with no rust. Not having rust will allow you to easily fix/replace a bunch of the stuff that would drive you nuts. I bought my vehicle, and promptly put a few thousand dollars into doing deep, deep maintenance all around, and replacing a bunch of suspension components. I pulled out the old stereo (JBL) top to bottom, put in a nice Alpine unit with Apple CarPlay, and have never looked back. I get about 15-18 MPG depending on how I'm driving. The 4WD works great for me in the snow and ice. The truck is stupid simple to work on. It's surprising rattle/clank free - even with 235k on the clock.

Don't expect to buy a first gen w/200k plus miles, and just drive it on the cheap. Expect to put a few grand into it to get it totally up to snuff, and get out ahead of all your preventative maintenance. Expect some small stuff (light bulbs, plastics, etc). Plan to get into the rear hatch and just replace the entire latch/lock assembly top to bottom. Don't buy one w/cracked exhaust manifolds - find one that has them already replaced or that aren't leaking. BUT, if you have a $5k budget to get the Sequoia in the first place, and another $3k budget to take care of everything like that, you'll get yourself a super reliable truck, with lots more space than your 4Runner, and with no payment!

 

[teleslinger]

HEre is the weird part of this equation for me: I have replaced a 2007 Ridgeline, a 2007 Tundra 4.7, and a 2017 Tacoma 3.5 4x4 Offroad, with a 2008 Sequoia 5.7--and to my shock, the Sq is hands down the winner. Regarding MPG, a combination of things puts the Sq at least equal to the Tacoma. Using hand calculation I am getting 19-19.25 on the highway, and 16-17 mixed. I did a little better than that around town, but tank after tank I could not beat 20 MPG on my Tacoma (2017). My Tundra, a 2007. usually got around 18 and then bad to worse in town. But the 5.7 KILLS the competition on torque and HP. Ride and handling is also staggering. It is most comparable to my BMW x5 4.6, which was a very high end ride and whose death convinced me to never own a German car again (so bad when my uncle gave me a Benz, i declined it). I am a die hard truck guy but for the first time in years, I am satisfied with my 4x4. I know you are talking about 4runners, but the simple physics of the 4runner suggests to me that you are not going to move that vehicle around much more cheaply than the Sq. Where I live, in NorCal, the contractors desire and drive up the prices on used Tundras. The Overlanders drive up the prices on Tacomas and Lx470s. This leaves the wolf in sheep's clothing: 6 second 0-60 Sq, masquerading as a soccer vehicle. Well, best of luck--but until my company buys me a new electric Hummer, I am ripping around in my Sq.

 

[LookingUp]

HEre is the weird part of this equation for me: I have replaced a 2007 Ridgeline, a 2007 Tundra 4.7, and a 2017 Tacoma 3.5 4x4 Offroad, with a 2008 Sequoia 5.7--and to my shock, the Sq is hands down the winner. Regarding MPG, a combination of things puts the Sq at least equal to the Tacoma. Using hand calculation I am getting 19-19.25 on the highway, and 16-17 mixed. I did a little better than that around town, but tank after tank I could not beat 20 MPG on my Tacoma (2017). My Tundra, a 2007. usually got around 18 and then bad to worse in town. But the 5.7 KILLS the competition on torque and HP. Ride and handling is also staggering. It is most comparable to my BMW x5 4.6, which was a very high end ride and whose death convinced me to never own a German car again (so bad when my uncle gave me a Benz, i declined it). I am a die hard truck guy but for the first time in years, I am satisfied with my 4x4. I know you are talking about 4runners, but the simple physics of the 4runner suggests to me that you are not going to move that vehicle around much more cheaply than the Sq. Where I live, in NorCal, the contractors desire and drive up the prices on used Tundras. The Overlanders drive up the prices on Tacomas and Lx470s. This leaves the wolf in sheep's clothing: 6 second 0-60 Sq, masquerading as a soccer vehicle. Well, best of luck--but until my company buys me a new electric Hummer, I am ripping around in my Sq.

If I was willing to take on a car payment there would be a 5.7 Toyota in my driveway. My main issue (other than $$$) is that they're all ugly, ever since the update after 07. The Sequoias are starting to grow on me but every time I look at a Tundra, I'm reminded how ugly they are. Especially the extended cabs.

 

[teleslinger]

Concur. The Sq is not going to win a beauty contest either. The new 4runners, both versions, and the Tacomas LOOK fantastic. The Tacoma has been a big disappointment for me, after owning two much older ones (an 88 and a 90, pre-Tacoma). The LX 470s look great. But functionally, the 5.7 Tundra/Sq are just unmatchable in my experience. I actually think the Sq handles better than the Tundra, even though on the same platform. Perhaps the rear cab balances the vehicle better. I have a Lexus 450h also, and the Sq will outperform that in every way, including handling. And I LOVE the 450h. Another very under-rated vehicle. I bought it with 20k on the odometer for $24k--and it had the original dealer's sticker of $68k plus tax. It was a 2011 that was 7 years old. I see a vehicle as a loss, not an investment, so I look for a low mileage, older vehicle that is kind of frumpy and out of style, with high performance. The Sq is like an old station wagon idling at a red light, which is hiding a 496 under the hood. I have had five BMWs, three MBZs, a Volvo wagon and two Saabs, in addition to many F150/250s, three Jeeps, and bunch of other junkers like $750 VWs. I think the Sq that I own right now is the best allrounder I have ever owned. But like my 9th grade girlfriend, the harsh light of the noonday sun isn't doing the relationship any good at all. Well, anyway, best wishes on your search.

 

[Oregonhiker]

How old are your kids and how often do you haul them around with the in-laws? Since you already have the 4Runner I would personally check to see how much it would cost to add in 3rd row seating to your current vehicle. It doesn’t look like the 4Runner 3rd row is big enough for adults to be comfortable, but if your current kid is old enough to be in a booster and crawl in themselves I would think that could be a good option. If you want something bigger, your main concern on the second gen Sequoia seems to be fuel mileage. I mostly know the Tundra’s, not the Sequioa’s, but everything I’ve read and heard about them says the second gen gets the same or better mileage than the 1st. I think the Sequioa does a little better, but my Tundra averages under 13 and I’ve never seen over 15 on it, even driving all highway with no load. But then last summer I did a 1,200 mile road trip with 4 people, a bed full of gear, and a 3,500 tent camper and still got 15 on the trip. I wouldn’t expect any Sequioa to come close to averaging 19 like the 4Runner. Also, the 1st gen has the 4.7 in it. So far it’s been a great motor for me, other than I would like a little more power for towing. But I hate that it has a timing belt. That is quite the added maintenance expense every 90,000 miles. If you’re driving 60 miles a day that is an extra $1,000 every 4 years. That divides out to not that much per month, but it equals about the same as 1.5mpg difference over 90k.
So personally I would think I would first look at adding a 3rd row to the 4Runner, and then second look at a 2nd gen Sequoia with a 5.7.

 

[teleslinger]

The 5.7 does a little better on MPG than the 4.7. I have read that it has both a different rear gear ratio and slightly more sophisticated, and perhaps long term troublesome intake system that gives a little better MPG. I measure MPG over 100k to decide what I want to drive. But that is not everyone. Here is an excerpt about the5.7 intake: "The intake manifold of the 3UR-FE is made from plastic and equipped with Toyota's Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS). This system allows changing a length of the intake ports according to the engine speeds. The 3UR-FE has linkless-type throttle body with electronically controlled throttle angle by ETCS-I (Electronic Throttle Control System - intelligent). The 3UR-FE uses a sequential fuel injection (SFI) only, there is no direct injection. The air mass and flow rate are measured by slot-in type air flow meter which also has a built-in intake air temperature sensor. There is also Toyota's DIS ignition system (Direct Ignition System) which used individual ignition coils for each cylinder. The 3UR has iridium-tipped spark plugs with extended service interval. "

Seems like a lot of complexity for an extra 1 mpg--or perhaps 2mpg--on the damn highway. I am certain my 5.7 Sq is getting a little better than my 4.7 Tundra. Biggum Dealum. But in the real world, are the new 4runners getting over 20 mpg on the highway? They certainly are good looking. I was admiring my neighbor's this morning as we sat on the ramp for the freeway. I had sat in the car before I bought the Sq for backseat room--he does not have the 3rd row. It was either the same or about the size of the Tacoma 4x4 Offroad 4door that I sold. My two children hate each other and spend their time torturing our dog (who rode the entire four days round trip to Banff wearing a tutu and a tiara), and for that reason I just couldn't take anymore long trips with their chaotic warfare. Now they fight over who is going to sit in the far back on the third row, and you guessed it, they both sit in the far back together. Ain't that something? But that is my problem, maybe not everyone's, which informed my decision to buy the Rhino.

 

[rampante550]

I would echo a few of the guys here - get a low-mileage one, plan to spend some money, and you're good to go.

Regarding the styling, one of the reasons I like this style is because it's a biggun, but it's styled to look as small as possible. Everything else in this class has been designed to look as large as possible, even if practically speaking they are not or are nominally larger here and there.

For the OP, I hear you on the raised eyebrows around buying a used car, especially and older one. All of my extended family looked at me like I was crazy when they asked me about my new car and I said it was an 06 Sequoia. Sorry, don't feel like spending $60k or buying a minivan.

I've gone a little overboard updating mine, but my all-in is still probably less than half if I bought a 5 year old SR5 with the same miles and having no payment is a nice feeling.