general problems of the 2004 Toyota Sequoia

The rear door latch failed, making the door inoperable. Use of the door for entry and exit was impossible, creating a safety hazard. Repair of this latch failure is expensive ($400 - $700) and inconvenient. The design of the part and the material used (plastic) appears to be at fault. A heavier duty metal part is now available from after market parts dealers. The problem appears to be common and widespread judging from a discussion with a local Toyota dealer service center and judging from the number of complaints and information on the internet.

2004 Toyota Sequoia. The rear door (hatch) external door handle fails mid way during normal operation leading the door to continuously be ajar during vehicle operation. Door handle is disabled and there is no other way to open/close door (there is no internal handle). Total failure. Local Toyota dealer service department stated that this part fails often on Toyota Sequoias and Toyota siennas. Search of internet website reveals failure is due to use of "cheap plastic parts" on this essential piece of vehicle equipment.

Rear hatch release handle is corroded and frozen. Dealer must break in from the inside, remove back panel to repair. Dealer has seen this problem with other Sequoias. Handle poorly designed if prone to failure due to corrosion. $600 expense to repair.