Is the 2016 Toyota Sequoia reliable?

Yes, overall reliability is typically considered strong, especially for the engine and transmission, with most concerns centered on wear items and a few known emissions/suspension-related complaints.

What are the most common 2016 Toyota Sequoia problems?

Common issues include secondary air injection system faults (check engine light/limp mode), suspension component wear causing clunks or looseness, and brake rotor vibration or faster brake wear due to vehicle weight.

Are 2016 Toyota Sequoia maintenance costs high?

Maintenance is usually moderate for the class, but it can feel higher than smaller SUVs because it uses more fluids and larger components—tires, brakes, and suspension parts can cost more, especially on 4WD models.

What are the best years to buy a Toyota Sequoia?

Many shoppers prefer 2014–2017 models for the refreshed second-generation updates and the proven 5.7L V8, while also considering condition and service history as the biggest factors.

What should I check before buying a used 2016 Sequoia?

Verify service records, scan for stored engine codes (especially air injection/emissions-related), test for brake vibration, inspect tires for uneven wear, check 4WD operation (if equipped), and listen for suspension noises over bumps. For deeper trim-by-trim details, full specs, and the complete maintenance schedule, get a complete owner’s guide for the 2016 Toyota Sequoia before you buy.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2016 Toyota Sequoia Reliability ReportKeepScore 91/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid

91/ 100

KeepScore

LOW RISK

Grade: A

An old-school, ultra-durable giant built to outlast nearly everything else on the road, if you don't mind the gas station stops.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2016 Toyota Sequoia

Scores 2 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2015 Toyota Sequoia earns a 93.
The system most likely to surface first: frame and underbody rust (major severity).
Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the wheels:lugs/nuts/bolts/studs.

2016 Toyota Sequoia: Buy or Avoid?

The 2016 Toyota Sequoia stands as one of the most dependable full-size SUVs on the used market, a true workhorse built to tackle high mileage with minimal fuss. While its design is undeniably dated, its bulletproof powertrain and robust construction offer peace of mind that few competitors can match. This is a vehicle you can confidently buy and expect to serve your family for many years to come, provided you accept its thirst for fuel.

Biggest Strengths

Legendary 5.7L V8 powertrain reliability
Robust body-on-frame construction
Excellent resale value and longevity

2016 Toyota Sequoia — Known Trouble Spots

The systems that break first on the 2016 Toyota Sequoia. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Frame and Underbody Rustmajor

Secondary Air Injection Systemmoderate

X-REAS Suspension System (if equipped)moderate

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

Safety Recalls on the 2016 Toyota Sequoia

3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS

Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2013-2017 Toyota Tundra and Sequoia vehicles accessorized with Southeast Toyota accessory 20-inch Rockstar wheels installed by Southeast Toyota or a Southeast Toyota dealer. The Rockstar wheels were installed with lugnuts that may crack and detach.

STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

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.

What breaks on the 2016 Toyota Sequoia?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Toyota Sequoia — Year-by-Year Comparison

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Toyota Sequoia. Click any year for its full report.

All Toyota Sequoia years ranked →Toyota Sequoia years to avoid →Toyota Sequoia common problems →

Competing 2016s Worth a Look

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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