Last updated: 2026-07-24

RELIABILITY SCORE: 69/100 (GOOD)

2018 Toyota Sequoia Reliability Report

Name: 2018 Toyota Sequoia
Brand: Toyota

The 2018 Toyota Sequoia scores 69/100 ("Good"). With 5 recalls and 20 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

18per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$642

Annual Fuel Cost

$4,000–$4,300

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity64/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact68/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity79/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2)
FUEL SYSTEM (1)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Redesign (Year 11)

2018 is year 11 of the Second generation (XK60).

Redesigned for the 2008 model year.
Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
2nd generation Sequoia (US).

What this means for buyers

Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.

2008: Second generation (XK60) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2018: This Model Year

2018 is year 11 of the Second generation (XK60).

Should You Buy the 2018 Toyota Sequoia?

At 69/100, the 2018 Toyota Sequoia lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2018 is year 11 of the Second generation (XK60).

Owners log 20 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (7). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2019 Toyota Sequoia, which scored 1 points higher.

Pros

+Acceptable reliability score
+$142 cheaper to maintain than avg fullsize SUVs
+Low major repair risk (15%)
+Below-average complaint rate for SUV

Cons

−Moderate recall count
−ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Vehicle's safety sensors and warning systems (7 complaints)
−UNKNOWN OR OTHER: Owners of the 2018 Toyota Sequoia report several issues under the unknown or... (3 complaints)

Compare 2018 Toyota Sequoia With

2018 Chevrolet Tahoe

Reliability: 72/100

Good

2018 GMC Yukon

Reliability: 68/100

Good

2018 Ford Expedition

Reliability: 52/100

Mixed

2018 Nissan Armada

Reliability: 70/100

Good

2018 Lincoln Navigator

Reliability: 59/100

Mixed

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

5 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recalls on record

A moderate 5 recalls are on file for the 2018 Toyota Sequoia. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 27.1

LowAvgHigh

Moderate

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2018 Toyota Sequoia Recall Details

5 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Toyota Sequoia. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

18V1220002018-02-20

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018 Toyota Tundra and Sequoia vehicles. Electrical interference within the power supply circuit may cause the vehicle's electronic stability control system to be deactivated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."

Consequence

Deactivation of the vehicle stability control system can increase the risk of a crash in certain conditions.

Remedy

Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will update the vehicle's software, free of charge. The recall began March 14, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is J0H. Note: This recall has been superseded by 18V-685. The software remedy for 18V-685 includes the updates to the software for this recall.

21E1030002021-12-23

STEERING

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain JTEKT power steering gear assembly service parts for 2007-2021 Tundra and 2008-2022 Sequoia, part numbers 44250-0C160, 44250-0C131, 44250-0C170, and 11250-0C121. The power steering gear assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in an oil leak.

Consequence

An oil leak may cause a sudden loss of power steering assist, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the power steering gear assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 17, 2022. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 21TH01.

21V9200002021-11-23

STEERING

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2008-2022 Sequoia and 2007-2021 Tundra vehicles. The power steering gear assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in an oil leak.

Consequence

An oil leak may cause a sudden loss of power steering assist, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the power steering gear assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on January 21, 2022. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 21TB10 and 21TA10.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2018 Toyota Sequoia? Check its history first

Every 2018 Toyota Sequoia has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Accidents
Open Recalls
Title History
Odometer Rollback

2018 Toyota Sequoia NHTSA Safety Ratings

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Rollover risk: 18.5%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat, 3rd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat, 3rd row)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Toyota SequoiaRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$642

vs $784 avg for fullsize SUVs

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.4

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

15%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

Sequoia

$642

Category Avg

$784

All Vehicles

$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

14–15 MPG

Running cost: $4,650–$4,950/yr

Fuel + repair

13 city / 17 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2018 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
Sequoia 2WD 5.7L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S6)	13	17	15	$4,000
Sequoia 4WD FFV 5.7L 8-cyl	Part-time 4-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S6)	13	17	14	$4,300
Sequoia 4WD 5.7L 8-cyl	Part-time 4-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S6)	13	17	14	$4,300

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Toyota Sequoia.

Test blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert for functionality
Verify adaptive cruise control and pre-collision system operate correctly
Check for fuel pump recall completion and inspect for extended crank symptoms
Inspect sunroof for any signs of stress or previous repair
Test audio multimedia system for rebooting issues
Ensure steering system is free of leaks and check rack and pinion seals

2018 Toyota Sequoia Common Problems by Component

20 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2)FUEL SYSTEM (1)STEERING (1)LANE DEPARTURE (1)VISIBILITY/WIPER (1)AIR BAGS (1)Other (3)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

7 complaints

Owners report frequent issues with the electrical system of the 2018 Toyota Sequoia, particularly involving the vehicle's safety sensors and warning systems. Common symptoms include malfunctioning blind spot monitors, rear cross traffic alerts, adaptive cruise control, and pre-collision warning systems. These issues often manifest at low mileages, with several complaints noting problems as early as 30 to 500 miles. There are safety implications, as some owners describe the vehicle's auto-braking feature activating unexpectedly, which could potentially lead to hazardous situations if it occurs in traffic. Buyers should be aware that despite software updates and repairs, these problems frequently recur, and resolution may be ongoing.

7 complaints total

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

3 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Toyota Sequoia report several issues under the unknown or other category. One complaint involves the sunroof unexpectedly exploding from the inside while driving at highway speeds, which could pose a safety risk. Another issue frequently mentioned is the audio multimedia system, including hands-free and GPS functions, repeatedly rebooting without reason, potentially distracting the driver. Additionally, the pre-collision system (PCS) is reported to malfunction, with the PCS off light illuminating incorrectly and the system failing to apply brakes in near-collision scenarios. The mileage at which these issues occur is not specified, but the safety implications, particularly with the PCS and sunroof, may be notable for potential buyers.

3 complaints total

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

2 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Toyota Sequoia report issues with the fuel pump, including symptoms such as extended crank times and a loss of power. These symptoms are similar to those described in a specific recall, though some owners note their vehicles are not included despite experiencing identical issues. Complaints also highlight service-related problems, where a recall fix was not performed during scheduled maintenance due to unclear communication and service documentation errors. These issues typically arise without a specific mileage range mentioned, but the safety implications include potential power loss while driving. This information is useful for potential buyers to consider when assessing the maintenance history and recall status of a used 2018 Toyota Sequoia.

2 complaints total

FUEL SYSTEM (1 complaints)

FUEL SYSTEM

1 complaint

2026-01-14

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Sequoia. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that after several attempts, the vehicle started. While driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle drove abnormally rough. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V012000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the VIN was not associated with the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 154,000.

STEERING (1 complaints)

STEERING

1 complaint

2024-06-04

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Sequoia. The contact stated that while having routine maintenance at the local dealer, he was informed that the outer seals were leaking and full of fluid. The vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the rack and pinion seals had failed. The outer seals were leaking and full of fluid. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21E103000 (Steering). The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

LANE DEPARTURE (1 complaints)

LANE DEPARTURE

1 complaint

2021-07-12

In the past few months the automatic braking feature was activated without any reason. No obstruction in front, no unusual weather or driving conditions. Fortunately nobody was close behind and no accident occurred. Today the blind spot and cross traffic indicators stopped working. I have not taken it into the dealer yet. I will do so soon.

VISIBILITY/WIPER (1 complaints)

VISIBILITY/WIPER

1 complaint

2019-05-16

SUNROOF EXPLODED WHILE DRIVING ON FREEWAY. I WAS DOING 65 MPH IN THE CARPOOL LANE. NO APPARENT DEBRIS FROM SURROUNDING VEHICLES. FRONT CAR WAS FAR AWAY, SIDE VEHICLES DRIVING SLOWER AND NO TRUCKS. ALL THE EDGES OF THE REMAINING GLASS ARE FACING OUTWARD AS IF THERE WAS TOO MUCH PRESSURE INSIDE THE VEHICLE. I HAD COMPLAINED EARLIER TO THE DEALER ABOUT A WIND WHISTLING NOISE WHICH THEY WERE UNABLE TO CONFIRM. 10:15 AM, 58 DEGREES, SPOTTED RAIN, 5-16-2019

AIR BAGS (1 complaints)

AIR BAGS

1 complaint

2018-10-18

RENTED VEHICLE FROM HERTZ IN OKLAHOMA CITY, OK ON 10/14/18. WHEN I RETURNED VEHICLE ON 10/18/18, THE RENTAL CAR ASSOCIATE WROTE "SAFETY" ON THE WINDOW. WHEN I ASKED WHAT THE "SAFETY" WAS FOR, HE SAID, "... THIS VEHICLE IS UNDER RECALL AND SHOULD HAVE NEVER BEEN RENTED TO YOU." NHTSA #18V685 - AIR BAG MAY DISABLED DUE TO FAULTY PROGRAMMING. ADDITIONALLY, RECALL NUMBER 18V122000 RECALL DATE 02/20/2018 COMPONENT ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL MAY BE RELEVANT.

SEAT BELTS (1 complaints)

SEAT BELTS

1 complaint

2018-05-09

THE SEATS FROM 2 AND 3 ROW VIBRATES AND MAKES NOISE,SEAT BELTS GETS STUCK AND DOESN'T RETRACK BACK COMPLETELY INSIDE AND GET TWISTED EVERY SINGLE TIME.EVERY SINGLE TIME I HAVE TO PUT THE BELT INSIDE MANUALLY

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) (1 complaints)

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

1 complaint

2018-04-25

RECEIVED TOYOTA RECALL NOTICE FOR MY VEHICLE; SPECIFICALLY BY VIN. CALLED A LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER WHO COULD NOT FIND THIS RECALL. CALLED TOYOTA WHO SAID IT WAS FIXED ON MY VEHICLE AT A TIME WHEN THEY DID NOT HAVE POSSESSION!! SO IS IT OK TO DRIVE??

When Do 2018 Toyota Sequoia Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

30–500 milesElectrical system failures

Best & Worst Toyota Sequoia Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Toyota Sequoia Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

The best Toyota Sequoia year is 2022 with a reliability score of 72/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2021 (72/100) and 2020 (72/100).

Top Pick

Good

Toyota Sequoia Years to Avoid

No Toyota Sequoia years are statistical outliers in our data.

All model years score consistently well. The Toyota Sequoia maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.

See full Toyota Sequoia years-to-avoid analysis

Toyota Sequoia Reliability Score Trend

Toyota Sequoia reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 71/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Toyota Sequoia reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2018	69/100	Good
2019	70/100	Good
2020	72/100	Good
2021	72/100	Good
2022	72/100	Good

Toyota Sequoia Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2022	72/100	0	Good	2	1
2021	72/100	0	Good	2	4
2020	72/100	+2	Good	2	4
2019	70/100	+1	Good	6	7
2018(selected)	69/100	—	Good	5	20

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2018 Toyota Sequoia reliable?

The 2018 Toyota Sequoia has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 69/100. It is reasonably reliable with 5 recalls and 20 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2018 Toyota Sequoia?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2018 Toyota Sequoia include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3 complaints), FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2 complaints), FUEL SYSTEM (1 complaints), STEERING (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2018 Toyota Sequoia have?

The 2018 Toyota Sequoia has 5 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2018 Toyota Sequoia expensive to maintain?

The 2018 Toyota Sequoia has estimated annual repair costs of $642/year, which is $142 less than the fullsize SUVs average of $784. With a reliability score of 69/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2018 Toyota Sequoia without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

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Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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