How much towing capacity does a 5.7 Sequoia have?
The 5.7-liter Sequoia typically tows up to about 7,400 pounds when equipped with the factory Tow Package. Some model years list around 7,500 pounds, but 7,400 pounds is the most common official rating. Exact capacity depends on your vehicle’s equipment and configuration.
This article explains what determines the Sequoia’s towing rating, how to confirm the exact figure for your specific truck, and practical considerations for towing with a 5.7L Sequoia.
What determines the towing rating
Several factors influence the official towing capacity of a 5.7L Sequoia. The rating reflects not only the engine’s torque but also the vehicle’s cooling, transmission, hitch setup, and payload capacity. Understanding these elements helps explain why the rating isn’t the same for every Sequoia.
- Engine and torque characteristics of the 5.7L V8
- Tow Package availability and components (hitch, cooling, wiring)
- Drivetrain configuration (two-wheel drive vs four-wheel drive)
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and payload capacity
- Transmission cooling and axle ratios
In practice, a properly equipped 5.7L Sequoia is typically rated around 7,400 pounds, with minor variations depending on year and trim. Always verify the exact figure on your vehicle’s door sticker or in the owner's manual.
Model-year nuances
For most second-generation Sequoias equipped with the 5.7L V8 and Tow Package, the official tow rating centers on about 7,400 pounds. Some years or configurations may show slight differences, but the 7,400-pound figure is the standard reference for common 2008–2019 Sequoias with the 5.7 liter engine.
- Typical maximum towing: up to 7,400 pounds with Tow Package
- Some configurations may be listed near 7,500 pounds in marketing materials, depending on equipment
- Always rely on the specific vehicle’s door jamb sticker for the exact number
Because towing ratings are tied to factory equipment and vehicle weight limits, the exact number can vary by trim, options, and drivetrain. Use the official specification for your exact truck to avoid overloading.
How to confirm your Sequoia’s exact rating
To ensure you’re towing within safe limits, verify the precise capacity for your vehicle using official sources and in-vehicle markings.
- Identify the exact model year, trim level, and whether the Tow Package is installed.
- Check the door jamb sticker for the GVWR and the listed towing capacity.
- Consult the owner’s manual or a trusted Toyota dealer for the official figure for your year/trim.
- Confirm you have the factory Tow Package components (class IV hitch, transmission cooler, radiator, and related wiring).
- When towing, calculate payload and trailer weight to ensure the combined load stays within GCWR (gross combined weight rating) for the vehicle.
Always prioritize the official rating over estimates from third-party sources, and consider professional inspection or advice if you’re planning heavy towing or frequent long trips with a fully loaded trailer.
Practical towing notes
Beyond the numerical rating, practical considerations matter. With a 5.7 Sequoia, you’ll experience strong low-end torque and confident highway pulling, but you should monitor cooling, braking, and sway when towing near the limit. Use appropriate hitch equipment, maintain proper tire pressures, and follow Toyota’s recommended towing procedures for safe, efficient towing.
Summary
For most 5.7L Sequoias equipped with the Tow Package, the official towing capacity is around 7,400 pounds. Exact figures vary by year, trim, and equipment, so always verify the door sticker and the owner’s manual for your specific vehicle. With proper setup and cautious planning, a 5.7 Sequoia can handle a wide range of trailers and loads.
Can a Sequoia tow 10,000 lbs?
The 2025 Toyota Sequoia comes slightly below a 10,000-pound tow rating,1 with the ability to haul up to 9,520 pounds when properly equipped.
What is the 80% towing rule?
Many RVers are strict followers of the 80% or 80/20 rule of towing, and it's a great rule to live by if you want to ensure you don't overload your tow vehicle. The 80% towing rule is less of a “rule” and more of an idea: don't pull a trailer with a GVWR that is more than 80% of your vehicle's maximum towing capacity.
Which Sequoia has the highest towing capacity?
2023 Toyota Sequoia Towing Capacity by Trim
- Sequoia SR5 – 9,520 pounds.
- Sequoia Limited – 9,300 pounds.
- Sequoia Platinum – 9,310 pounds.
- Sequoia TRD Pro – 9,020 pounds.
- Sequoia Capstone – 9,280 pounds.
What are the bad years to avoid Toyota Sequoia?
The Toyota Sequoia years to avoid are primarily the first generation models from 2001 to 2008 due to issues like frame rust, and potential problems with the engine, brakes, and steering. Within the second generation, 2008-2010 models also have specific concerns, such as secondary air injection system issues.
First generation (2001-2007)
- 2001-2008: These years are frequently cited for being problematic due to a range of defects, including frame rust, steering issues, and engine and brake problems.
- 2001-2007: Often mentioned for a higher risk of frame rust, especially if you live in an area that uses road salt.
- 2002: This year stands out as having a high volume of severe complaints, notes CarBuzz.
- 2003: Multiple recalls and issues with the Vehicle Stability Control system.
- 2004: Subject to the Takata airbag recall.
- 2006: Recalled 10 times by the NHTSA.
You can watch this video to learn about the common problems of the Toyota Sequoia: 55sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Jan 3, 2024
Second generation (2008-2017)
- 2008-2010: These models can have issues with the secondary air injection system, which can be expensive to fix. Early models also had a recall for accelerator pedal friction.
- 2009: A recall for oil leaks that could lead to a sudden loss of power steering assistance.
- 2017: Cited as a year to avoid by some sources.
