2023 Toyota Sequoia Hybrid Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
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What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2023 Toyota Sequoia Hybrid, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Powertrain (other)613.6%
- Body & structure613.6%
- Driver assistance511.4%
- Engine511.4%
- Brakes511.4%
- Electrical49.1%
- Visibility49.1%
- Other / unspecified36.8%
- Steering24.5%
- Interior & seats24.5%
- Fuel system12.3%
- Airbags12.3%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
Formal complaint that 2022 thru 2025 Toyota Sequoia equipped with the 3.4L twin-turbo V6 engine architecture (V35A-FTS) suffering from the notorious main bearing failure be included in the current recall of 2022 thru 2025 Toyota Tundra. If the engine block mechanically seizes, the entire drivetrain locks up, rendering the hybrid backup ineffective, creating a major safety issue. (NHTSA Campaign 25V767)
I am creating this complaint because my vehicle has not been included in the NHTSA recall # 25V-767 on the V35A 3.4L twin-turbo V6 in my 2023 Sequioa. My vehicle was produced on the same manufacturing line and likely had the same engine debris. Toyota gives the reason for not including the hybrid because it is not a safety issue as the hybrid motor can provide power if the engine fails. However owners who have encountered this issue in a hybrid tundra or Sequioa has said that power-steering and control systems failed creating a safety issue. Additionally we use this vehicle to do long road trips that often put us long distances from any service center or roadside assistance. This creates an additional safety hazard for our family being stranded far from potential help due to this issue. Since this is a known issue covered under a recall for other models with the same issue I am asking that my vehicle be included in the recall so that we can have confidence to use this vehicle as intended. We bought a Toyota and a lifetime Toyota owners due to the reputation of reliability that we could depend on the vehicle to get us across the country in safety. Not including our vehicle in this recall is breaking the trust that we have in the brand to do the right thing to cover their mistakes. I am requesting that the recall be consistent to cover all the engines impacted by manufacturing debris including the hybrid variants of the motor.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
The factory (OEM) roof rails on my 2023 Toyota Sequoia have become loose at the front and are popping up, no longer sitting flush or appearing securely attached to the roof. This issue occurs during normal driving and is visible without removing any trim or components. The front portion of the OEM roof rails appears to lift or separate, creating concern that the rails or associated hardware could detach while the vehicle is in motion. This presents a potential safety hazard due to the risk of parts coming loose at speed and becoming road debris, which could endanger other vehicles. I am aware of other owners reporting similar issues with the factory roof rails on this model, suggesting this may not be an isolated incident. The vehicle has approximately just over 40,000 miles. The dealer has inspected the vehicle and advised that the repair would require significant disassembly and replacement, with an estimated cost of approximately $3,400. Despite the issue involving OEM components and their secure attachment to the vehicle, the repair was denied under warranty due to mileage. Given that this involves factory-installed exterior structural components becoming unsecured, I believe this represents a potential safety-related defect rather than normal wear or damage.
The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Sequoia Hybrid. The contact stated that the tow hitch cover had separated from the vehicle while driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the part was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V640000 (Structure, Trailer Hitches); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 6,500. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Sequoia. The contact received notice of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V657000 (Back Over Prevention). The contact stated that while in reverse (R), during inclement weather at his residence, the vehicle's reverse screen went black, and the reverse notification system failed to detect any structures. The contact stated that as a result of the reverse camera being black and not notifying him of any structures, the vehicle collided with a tree, impacting the right rear. No injuries were sustained. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the reverse camera needed replacement. The vehicle was repaired. The contact notified the manufacturer of the failure and filed a complaint; however, he has yet to receive any information regarding the outcome of his complaint. The failure mileage was approximately 21,463.
Electronic control module failed due to the cup holder failing. It is available for inspection. Safety was put at risk because the vehicle randomly slammed itself on the brakes, when in drive the vehicle was moving backwards then abruptly braking and moving forward. The problem was confirmed by the dealer. There were warning lamps for the following: drive start control malfunction, parking brake unable to disengage, hybrid system failure, check engine, parking support brake malfunction. The vehicle was showing as being in both park and drive at the same time. The dealer determined the cupholder allows water condensation to leak into the center console compartment where exposed high and low voltage wiring is contained as part of electronic modules causing the vehicle to malfunction. The vehicle was put in gear while throwing the malfunctions, however, the electronic components should not be exposed and stored within a compartment where liquids are known to be stored (cup holder) in a way that allows water to leak into them. This could happen while the vehicle is being driven and cause serious issues. This same issue happened once before several months back before the cup holder started to fail, so regardless if the cupholder is working properly, it seems water can penetrate this area of the vehicle and cause issues because there is no barrier between the electronic modules/wiring and the cup holder drip tray. The service department actually stated to me that they see this issue all the time on the Sequoias and Tundras.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
Formal complaint that 2022 thru 2025 Toyota Sequoia equipped with the 3.4L twin-turbo V6 engine architecture (V35A-FTS) suffering from the notorious main bearing failure be included in the current recall of 2022 thru 2025 Toyota Tundra. If the engine block mechanically seizes, the entire drivetrain locks up, rendering the hybrid backup ineffective, creating a major safety issue. (NHTSA Campaign 25V767)
The motor in our 2023 Toyota Sequoia with around 32,000 miles failed and left me stranded on the side of a two lane highway in the middle of the night. Toyota only wants to replace the engine block and will not extend the warranty on the motor after it is repaired. This is the same motor that is in the Tundra that was recalled (NHTSA recall #25V767 for the V35A 3.4L i Force Max twin turbo V6 hybrid). Why is there not a recall on the Sequoia's motor? Now I will have a motor that has been torn apart and put back together by some random technician instead of getting a brand new motor from the factory, which is what they did for the Tundra. Toyota also extended the warranty on the motors for the Tundra, which they will not do on my rebuilt motor. So now if this motor they rebuild lasts as long as the first motor it will fail right after my warranty expires and I will have a Sequoia with 64,000 miles that has no motor and I will have to pay to have it replaced.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
I would like to create a complaint because my 2023 Toyota Sequoia is not included in the NHTSA recall #25V767 for the V35A 3.4L i Force Max twin turbo V6 hybrid. My Sequoia was manufactured on the same production line as engines that have been recalled for engine debris in the Tundra trucks and Sequoia's. Toyota's reasoning for not including my hybrid vehicle is it's not a safety concern as the hybrid electric motor will provide power if the V35A gasoline portion of the engine should fail. Owners of the Tundra and Sequoia have stated that with loss of engine power some control system fail creating a safety issue. I use this vehicle for towing our boat to and from the lake frequently. I travel long distances with family and stranded along the highway could be catastrophic. This is an issue that Toyota is obviously aware of since they recalled the V35A engines because of failure.
This is related to Toyota service bulletins T-SB-0043-24 and T-SB-0022-25. My brakes started squealing shortly after I purchased the vehicle. I reported this to my toyota dealership. They told me about the service bulletins, but said the parts are on back order. I have been waiting for almost 2 years, and the dealership still hasn’t fixed it. Now, my brakes are vibrating violently at highway speed, and my family is scared to ride in the vehicle.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
Electronic control module failed due to the cup holder failing. It is available for inspection. Safety was put at risk because the vehicle randomly slammed itself on the brakes, when in drive the vehicle was moving backwards then abruptly braking and moving forward. The problem was confirmed by the dealer. There were warning lamps for the following: drive start control malfunction, parking brake unable to disengage, hybrid system failure, check engine, parking support brake malfunction. The vehicle was showing as being in both park and drive at the same time. The dealer determined the cupholder allows water condensation to leak into the center console compartment where exposed high and low voltage wiring is contained as part of electronic modules causing the vehicle to malfunction. The vehicle was put in gear while throwing the malfunctions, however, the electronic components should not be exposed and stored within a compartment where liquids are known to be stored (cup holder) in a way that allows water to leak into them. This could happen while the vehicle is being driven and cause serious issues. This same issue happened once before several months back before the cup holder started to fail, so regardless if the cupholder is working properly, it seems water can penetrate this area of the vehicle and cause issues because there is no barrier between the electronic modules/wiring and the cup holder drip tray. The service department actually stated to me that they see this issue all the time on the Sequoias and Tundras.
Able to lock car while keys are in the front cup holders. Have to close rear hatch manually. Dash button, key fob button and door button do not work. Others have been complaining about this on the internet. Driver side door has to be forced to roll up. Pull button to roll up. Goes up and then opens back up about two thirds of the way.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Sequoia. The contact stated that there was a recurring issue with the moonroof leaking. No warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed with a faulty seal. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure persisted. Most recently, the seal was detaching from the vehicle's interior. The manufacturer was contacted and it was confirmed that the cost of the diagnostic test would be the owner's responsibility. The failure mileage was approximately 2,000. The VIN was not available.
The rearview mirror in my 2023 Toyota Sequoia is a digital camera-based system rather than a traditional reflective mirror. The issue is that the camera used for this system has a low resolution and performs poorly in low-light conditions, making it difficult to see clearly at night. This creates a significant safety risk, as rear visibility is crucial when driving at night, especially when changing lanes, reversing, or maneuvering in areas with limited lighting. Toyota has since introduced an improved, higher-resolution version of this camera in newer models such as the Toyota Tacoma, which provides significantly better night visibility. However, despite acknowledging the issue and investigating potential solutions, Toyota has stated that the newer, higher-quality camera is “not compatible” with the Sequoia and therefore cannot be retrofitted to address the problem. This issue has been raised with Toyota, and their investigation confirmed the problem. However, they have not provided a solution or corrective action for existing Sequoia owners. The problem is consistent and has been observed repeatedly in nighttime driving conditions. The vehicle has not displayed any warning messages or error indicators related to the rearview camera system. Given the importance of rear visibility for safe driving, the poor performance of the current system presents a potential hazard to drivers and other road users. A malfunctioning or inadequate rearview camera system increases the risk of accidents, particularly in low-light situations where the driver is relying on it for visibility. I request that this issue be reviewed and addressed to ensure that affected vehicles are equipped with safe and functional rearview systems.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Sequoia Hybrid. The contact stated that the tow hitch cover had separated from the vehicle while driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the part was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V640000 (Structure, Trailer Hitches); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 6,500. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
I purchased my daughter's Nava in 2022 because of the extended rear-facing, the ability to fly with it, and its overall composition. My husband and I were driving today and we noticed my daughter kept getting out of her seat. Once we got home, on further investigation, we determined the issue to be a faulty, self-ratcheting system. My daughter is [XXX] in [XXX]. There should be no reason the straps are becoming loose. [XXX] we weren't in an accident on the freeway. I sent an email along with a video to the warranty department and I'm waiting to hear back. I am extremely frustrated as this car seat cost over $550 to purchase brand new With a two-year warranty. After doing further investigation, this seems to be an ongoing problem with the Nuna Rava. This is unacceptable and their faulty product has put my child's safety and life at risk. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
I would like to create a complaint because my 2023 Toyota Sequoia is not included in the NHTSA recall #25V767 for the V35A 3.4L i Force Max twin turbo V6 hybrid. My Sequoia was manufactured on the same production line as engines that have been recalled for engine debris in the Tundra trucks and Sequoia's. Toyota's reasoning for not including my hybrid vehicle is it's not a safety concern as the hybrid electric motor will provide power if the V35A gasoline portion of the engine should fail. Owners of the Tundra and Sequoia have stated that with loss of engine power some control system fail creating a safety issue. I use this vehicle for towing our boat to and from the lake frequently. I travel long distances with family and stranded along the highway could be catastrophic. This is an issue that Toyota is obviously aware of since they recalled the V35A engines because of failure.
Vehicle vibrates above 45mph. Took it to dealership and they did not fix the issue. Lane departure warning had to be disabled as it is mistaken for an actual lane departure. Vehicle posses a risk to operator and other drivers on the roadway. Toyota corporate notified but disregarded claim as dealership advised they were unable to replicate.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
The car seat platic keeps breaking and ripping. It has sharp edges. Dealer says its a know issue. Already replaced once and broke again.
The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Sequoia. The contact stated that while attempting to utilize the controls on the side of the driver’s seat, there was a crack in the hard plastic, and in the process, the contact sustained a minor cut on the left hand. The contact stated that medical treatment was not needed. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact also stated that the same crack had appeared on the front passenger’s seat. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed because the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 50,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
Twice now, when I attempt to refill the fuel tank, with the truck off, the tank "burps" out about 8 to 10 ounces of gas which spills on me, the left side fender and left side tire. When I put my ear to the filler neck, I can hear the fuel pump running (with the truck OFF). I sent the dealer a video off the noise I hear at the filler neck. Also the discoloration on my new Michelin ten ply tires. Went to dealer, Master Mechanic had no idea. He also didn't know where the battery was in the truck to perform the open recall. Service manager said he would start a TAS report with Toyota and let me know. I month went by and I heard from no one. I sent the service mgr two texts, no reply to either, I called the service writer and he said he would get back to me....I'm still waiting. I called Toyota Help line today. They said they would call the dealer. I while later, the service mgr called me and had no excuse for ignoring me. He wants to keep the truck of six months to duplicate the video I sent him. He doesn't have a Sequioa loaner and he said even if he did, I could NOT tow with it since its against their policy. I tow ever day with the truck. Being a retired Professional Engineer, I think there is a software issue telling the fuel pump to run to purge the charcoal canister every few months. I'm must be hitting that frequency when I refill. It would be nice to talk to a Toyota Engineer, or maybe they want to wait for it to burst into flames.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
A water leak was identified in the front left pillar from the support handle. It was sent in to Olympia Toyota who believed that body work was needed. The vehicle was then transferred to Titus Toyota in Tacoma. The assessment in Tacoma was very different than that in Olympia, and the vehicle was sent in to repair without first making contact with the owner. The assumption is that water is leaking in through a defect in the roof railing system. Multiple alerts have deployed: air bag warning, pre-collision system warning, lighting warning. The extent of the water leak has not been identified, and has likely compromised these systems including the electrical system. Toyota USA also has a class action law-suit regarding their RAV-4's, where there are consistent leaks due to the roof-rails, and this vehicle has a similar (but as yet unproven) design. I have attempted to contact Toyota USA and they have not replied.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .