The lifter problems are really two separate issues. I have no doubts about a higher than average failure rate for the engines built during the time period GM identified and blamed on a supplier. For everything built outside of that time period -- people blame DFM/AFM for a high failure rate -- but i havent seen anything to quantify that rate. I personally doubt its anything over a fraction of a percent. Maybe its higher than the industry average -- or non DFM/AFM motors - but that could still mean a low overall failure rate. And remember GM builds hundreds of thousands of these motors each year - most owners get through trouble free.
I love this forum and learn alot on here. But it can taint your ownership experience. Bad experiences are WAY over-represented (just like on any other forum). So to answer your question, sure I think about the lifters failing, my air suspension collapsing, the automatic assist steps binding, the sunroof jamming, the overhead console blowing out and on and on. I still think the overwhelming odds are non of the that stuff happens.
You mentioned jumping to a Sequoia and sure maybe Toyota does a better job with initial quality -- but the new Sequoia will have a all new twin turbocharged engine with an electric motor, all new air suspension, and lots of onew tech. I wouldnt be surprised if there are teething issues there too.
