2021 Toyota Sequoia Safety Report

2021 Toyota Sequoia shows low complaint volume but has critical power steering recalls and isolated fuel system and structural issues.

4Complaints
2Recalls
85/100Reliability Score
1Crash Reports
1Injuries
Most reported components: Power Train (1)Fuel/Propulsion System (1)Structure (1)Suspension (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia exhibits a relatively clean safety record based on the limited NHTSA data available, with only 4 total complaints, 1 crash, and 1 injury reported. There have been no reported fires or deaths. The vehicle's NHTSA safety ratings are largely unavailable for frontal and side crash tests, but it received a 4-star rating for rollover. The low number of complaints suggests a generally robust vehicle, though specific issues have emerged. Complaint patterns, despite the low volume, point to diverse concerns. One complaint details an inadvertent reversing incident while the vehicle was in park, indicating a potential power train or electronic system anomaly. Another significant issue involves a gas tank leak due to a crack, which is a serious fuel system concern. A third complaint describes an exploding sunroof, and a fourth highlights suspension noise (creaking, grinding, knocking) at slow speeds, raising questions about component durability. Recall history for the Sequoia includes two recalls related to the STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM. Both recalls, affecting 2008-2022 Sequoia models, address a manufacturing defect in the power steering gear assembly that could lead to an oil leak and sudden loss of power steering assist, increasing crash risk. While these recalls are significant, they are not directly linked to the specific complaints filed for the 2021 model year, which are more varied in nature. The overall safety picture is positive due to the low complaint count, but the recalls and specific complaints warrant attention.

Reliability Score

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia receives a reliability score of 85 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.

Known Issues for the 2021 Toyota Sequoia

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Toyota Sequoia:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Power Steering Gear Assembly Defect
Manufacturing defect in the power steering gear assembly can cause an oil leak and sudden loss of power steering assist, increasing crash risk. This is covered by two recalls.
High Common N/A (recall) miles
Inadvertent Vehicle Movement
Vehicle reportedly began reversing inadvertently while parked with the gear shift in 'P'.
High Rare N/A (isolated incident) miles
Fuel Tank Leak/Crack
Gas tank developed a crack and started leaking without external impact.
High Rare N/A (isolated incident) miles
Exploding Sunroof
Sunroof reportedly exploded while driving on the freeway.
Medium Rare N/A (isolated incident) miles
Suspension Noise
Driver side shock making creaking, grinding, and knocking noises over mild bumps at slow speeds.
Medium Rare N/A (isolated incident) miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Toyota Sequoia:

Power Train 25% of complaints

One complaint of inadvertent vehicle movement while in park.

Fuel/Propulsion System 25% of complaints

One complaint of a cracked and leaking gas tank.

Structure 25% of complaints

One complaint of an exploding sunroof.

Suspension 25% of complaints

One complaint of creaking, grinding, and knocking noises from the driver side shock.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Toyota Sequoia

Is the 2021 Toyota Sequoia safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Toyota Sequoia has a very low number of complaints (4 total) and a 4-star rollover rating, suggesting a generally safe vehicle. However, it has two significant recalls for power steering issues that could increase crash risk, and isolated reports of a leaking fuel tank and inadvertent vehicle movement.

What are common problems with the 2021 Toyota Sequoia?

While 'common' is difficult to assess with only 4 complaints, the most reported issues (each accounting for 25% of complaints) include power train anomalies (inadvertent reversing), fuel system leaks (cracked gas tank), structural issues (exploding sunroof), and suspension noise.

Are there any recalls for the 2021 Toyota Sequoia?

Yes, there are two recalls for the 2021 Toyota Sequoia related to the STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM. These recalls address a defect in the power steering gear assembly that could lead to an oil leak and sudden loss of power steering assist, increasing the risk of a crash.

How does the 2021 Toyota Sequoia perform in crash tests?

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia has an N/A rating for Overall, Frontal, and Side crash tests from NHTSA. It received a 4-star rating for Rollover safety.

Should I be concerned about the fuel system in the 2021 Toyota Sequoia?

There is one reported complaint of a cracked and leaking gas tank on a 2021 Toyota Sequoia. While this is an isolated incident, it represents a serious safety concern. It's advisable to inspect the fuel system for any signs of leaks during pre-purchase inspections.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the low complaint volume and robust build, the 2021 Toyota Sequoia appears generally reliable, but ensure all power steering recalls have been addressed and conduct a thorough inspection for fuel system integrity and any unusual suspension noises.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Toyota Sequoia

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Toyota Sequoia. The data includes 4 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.