Toyota Avalon problems
The Toyota Avalon (Japanese: トヨタ・アバロン, Hepburn: Toyota Abaron) is a full-size sedan produced by Toyota. It is Toyota's largest front-wheel drive sedan and serves as its flagship sedan in the United States, Canada, China and the Middle East. It was also produced in Australia from April 2000 until June 2005, when it was replaced in November 2006 by the Aurion. The first production Avalon rolled off the TMMK assembly line in Georgetown, Kentucky, in September 1994, and subsequent generations have all been manufactured at the Kentucky location to date.
Toyota marketed the Avalon as a replacement for the Cressida, a model discontinued for the American market in 1992. While the Cressida was an upper-level mid-size rear-wheel drive car with a straight-six engine, the Avalon is front-wheel drive, powered by a V6 engine. In recent years, there has been considerable overlapping with its platform mates, the Camry V6 and the Lexus ES, although the third-generation and subsequent Avalon was distinguished by offering extra legroom due to its extended-length chassis. From 2013, the Lexus ES was moved to the extended platform to match the Avalon.
As of 2013, the Avalon was sold in the United States, Canada, China, South Korea and the Middle East. It was discontinued in the United States in 2022.
Avalon is a legendary island featured in the Arthurian legend, fitting it in with Toyota's tradition of naming their sedans the word for "crown" in various languages (Crown, Corona, Camry, Corolla), types of crowns (Tiara), or other things associated with royalty (Scepter).
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Toyota Avalon model years
Common Toyota Avalon problems
Based on complaints from Toyota Avalon owners, several common problems have been reported with these cars:
- Cracked Dashboards: Many Toyota Avalon models, including those from 1995-2010 and 2012, have experienced issues with cracked dashboards. Owners have reported that their dashboards would crack, leading to aesthetic and potentially functional concerns.
- Transmission Issues: Owners of various Avalon models, such as those from 1995-1998, 2000-2007, 2009, and 2015, have faced transmission problems. These issues manifest as difficulties in shifting correctly, hesitation when shifting gears at low speeds, and even sudden jerking or staying in neutral while driving.
- Misfiring Engine: Avalon owners from 1995-2010 and 2012 have reported instances of misfiring engines. This issue causes the vehicle to hesitate and jerk, primarily due to faulty ignition coils. Replacing these coils can incur costs ranging from $5 to $50 plus labor.
- Peeling Paint: A common complaint, especially with the 2011 Avalon model, is peeling paint. Drivers have observed paint bubbling up and peeling, particularly on the roof and areas between the windshield and sunroof, affecting the car's appearance.
- Sudden Unintended Acceleration: Many 2014 Avalon owners have raised concerns about sudden unintended acceleration. This issue causes the car to accelerate without driver input, suspected to be related to electronic faults leading to throttle engagement without pressing the gas pedal.
- Fuel Leaks: Some Avalon models have been prone to fuel leaks, posing safety risks and potential fire hazards. This problem requires immediate attention and repair to ensure the vehicle's safety and performance.
These issues highlight the importance of thorough research and inspection when considering purchasing a Toyota Avalon, as certain model years have shown a higher incidence of these common problems reported by owners.
What are the bad years for Toyota Avalon?
Q: What are the Toyota Avalon years to avoid? A: According to customer reports and complaints, the Toyota Avalon years to avoid are 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2011, 2013, and 2014.
Is the Toyota Avalon a reliable car?
Toyota Avalon Reliability Rating Breakdown. The Toyota Avalon Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 3rd out of 12 for fullsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $463 which means it has excellent ownership costs.
Which year Avalon is best?
Here are the most reliable years for the Toyota Avalon:
- 1994 Toyota Avalon.
- 1995 Toyota Avalon.
- 1996 Toyota Avalon.
- 1997 Toyota Avalon.
- 1998 Toyota Avalon.
- 1999 Toyota Avalon.
- 2000 Toyota Avalon.
- 2001 Toyota Avalon.
How long do Toyota avalons last?
How long do Toyota Avalons last? A typical Toyota Avalon will last around 200,000 miles, surviving at least 150,000 miles until you, the driver, run into serious troubles. It's a solid choice for a used car and puts up quite a fight against other Toyota manufacturers on the market.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Toyota Avalon years
We have researched Toyota problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Toyota Avalon cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Toyota Avalon model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Toyota Avalon model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Toyota Avalon years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Toyota Avalon car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Toyota Avalon , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Air bags problems
- Steering problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Toyota Avalon vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Avalon model years
A total of 510 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Avalon model years
There were a total of 30 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Avalon model years
There were a total of 359 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Avalon model years
There were a total of 30 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 3476 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Toyota Avalon . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Toyota Avalon vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Toyota Avalon 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 4T1BK36B48U
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Because my instrument panel is alway illuminated, I was unaware that I was driving one night without my lights on. Now I know why I see more cars at night without their lights. Manufacturers need to fix this problem. Older cars would not turn on the panel lights if the headlights weren't on. You would think this would be an easy technology fix with since we have self driving cars now.
Toyota Avalon 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 4T1AZ1FB6MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Avalon. The contact received a notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Toyota Avalon 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 4T1BK36B45U
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns 2018 Chevrolet Impala. The contact stated while attempting to make a left turn the accelerator pedal was depressed and became inoperable. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 88,000.
Toyota Avalon 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-19
- VIN: 4T1BZ1FB0KU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: After troubleshooting, the issue with my car cannot communicate with my mobile app through Toyota remote connect, cannot update vehicle software, and after a $130 diagnostic fee, the dealer states the DCM module is bad and needs replacing. My question is this is a safety issue, correct?
Toyota Avalon 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-19
- VIN: 4T1BZ1FB6KU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: When starting the vehicle, an extremely high pitched noise is emitted from the speakers. The safety of my young child is at risk every time I start the car because this could cause irreparable hearing loss. This is a known issue across many Toyota models as I've found through online forums. Toyota wants $1,200 to fix the DCM Module when it is a manufacturing issue and not caused by the consumer.
Toyota Avalon 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4T1BK36B97U
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Toyota Avalon. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 30 MPH and attempting to make a turn, the steering wheel had seized causing a crash. The front passenger side and rear passenger side bumper impacted into a guard rail during the crash. No warning lights had illuminated. No air bags deployed. The contact managed to restart the vehicle and the failure was temporarily fixed. No injuries were sustained. No police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to the insurance provider for further diagnosis. The vehicle was not repaired as of yet. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
Toyota Avalon 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
- VIN: 4T1BK36B95U
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Toyota Avalon. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to accelerate, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The vehicle then returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V017000 (Vehicle Speed Control); the VIN was included, but the vehicle had already been repaired under recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 170,000.
Toyota Avalon 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-12
- VIN: 4T1BD1EB0EU
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I was pulling into a parking spot when my car suddenly accelerated to a very high speed. I traveled over a curb, on some pavement, through some bushes, knocked down a light pole and miraculously came to a stop. My foot was pumping the brakes to no avail. My entire car was damaged but miraculously no one was hurt. Car was towed to a mechanic who confirmed that the car accelerated with him as well. Front, back, underside, roof, tires and frames were all badly damaged.
Toyota Avalon 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-05
- VIN: 4T1BF28B94U
- Components: SUSPENSION,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Ella tuvo realmente la culpa
Toyota Avalon 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-22
- VIN: 4T1JZ1FBXMU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Avalon. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Toyota Avalon 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-18
- VIN: 4T1BK36B16U
- Components: AIR BAGS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: In my 2006 Toyota Avalon XL on dashboard appeared SRS Airbag light. Unable to clear it.
Toyota Avalon 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-15
- VIN: 4T1J21FB7LU
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TIE ROD LOOSE I heard a clunking noise while turning the steering wheel to the left at very low speeds. Took car in for service Service Mechanic found left outer tie rod end "with play, loose" Safety issue: potential loss of steering ability while driving Vehicle has been inspected and repaired - (my cost $1308.94) - images attached No warning messages / appeared about a month before I went in... it became progressively worse with time
Toyota Avalon 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-07
- VIN: 4T1BD1EB4DU
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: There is a very strong musty smell. 80% of the time it's when I turn on AC. 20% just at random driving times. Whenever car has sat longer then a few hours with all windows up. When open doors is has very musty smell. I have done everything to do with cleaning vehicle. This is a hybrid I'm a lil scared when it comes to electrical fire . Do to this musty smell. That means there is some type of fluid gathering somewhere. So what does Toyota plan on doing?
Toyota Avalon 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-12
- VIN: 4T1BD1EB4DU
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I have a smell of moldy old water what is going on ? Why is water filling up in my trunk? What do my head lights bulb keep going out? WHY HAVEN'T YOU GUYS DONE ANYTHING? For real I have a darn battery in my trunk come on. I already had to purchase a battery .
Toyota Avalon 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-08
- VIN: 4T1BK36B45U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Toyota Avalon. The contact stated that the vehicle was in direct sunlight, and the instrument panel cracked. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the contact was informed that the VIN was not under recall for the failure. The manufacturer was aware of the failure and referred contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 165,000.
Latest 5 recalls Toyota Avalon
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 86 recalls for different components of the Toyota Avalon.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Toyota Avalon 2021
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-20
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed February 2, 2024. A second notice will be mailed once the remedy is available. Multiple phases are planned through 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.
- Model: Toyota Avalon 2020
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-20
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed February 2, 2024. A second notice will be mailed once the remedy is available. Multiple phases are planned through 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.
- Model: Toyota Avalon 2020
- Report Received Date: 2020-11-25
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Toyota Avalon and 2020 Avalon Hybrid, RAV4, and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles. Breakaway pins within the steering column, designed to absorb energy and reduce injury during a crash, could have been damaged during production, possibly affecting the performance of the driver's air bag in the event of a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, an air bag that does not perform as designed can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering column, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TB17/20TA17.
- Model: Toyota Avalon 2021
- Report Received Date: 2020-11-25
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Toyota Avalon and 2020 Avalon Hybrid, RAV4, and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles. Breakaway pins within the steering column, designed to absorb energy and reduce injury during a crash, could have been damaged during production, possibly affecting the performance of the driver's air bag in the event of a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, an air bag that does not perform as designed can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering column, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TB17/20TA17.
- Model: Toyota Avalon 2019
- Report Received Date: 2020-11-04
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 4Runner, 2019-2020 Avalon, 2019 Corolla Hatchback, 2017-2019 Highlander, 2018-2020 Camry, 2020 Corolla, 2018-2019 Land Cruiser, 2017-2020 Tacoma, 2019-2020 RAV4, 2019-2020 Sequoia, 2017-2020 Sienna, 2019-2020 Tundra, 2018-2020 Lexus ES350, 2017 Lexus GS200t, 2017-2019 Lexus GS350, 2019 Lexus GS300, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500h, 2019-2020 Lexus LS500, 2018-2019 Lexus GX460, 2017 Lexus IS200t, 2019 Lexus IS300, 2019 Lexus IS350, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500, 2018 Lexus LS500, 2019 Lexus LS500h, 2018-2019 Lexus LX570, 2017 Lexus RC200t, 2019 Lexus RC300, RC350, 2017 and 2019-2020 Lexus RX350, 2018-2020 RX350L, 2019 Lexus UX200, 2018-2019 Lexus NX300 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
- Consequence: If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump assembly with an improved one, free of charge. Owners of specific models were notified that remedy parts were available starting January 21, 2021. Owners of other models will be notified as remedy parts become available. Remedy parts should be available for all affected vehicles by late March 2021. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-012. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA02. Lexus' number for this recall is 20LA01.
Latest negative Toyota Avalon car reviews
Latest positive Toyota Avalon car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2010
As long as you maintain this vehicle, it will last forever!
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Vehicle year: 2005
I've had my Avalon Limited for two weeks now and it's been an amazing experience. The car is simply the best I've ever had, with its comfortable interior, luxurious amenities, and powerful engine that makes freeway driving a breeze. I especially love the overall look of the car, especially the cabin. It came with some great features like DVD NAV, VSC, and Laser Link Cruise Control, which have all been a pleasure to use. I was pleasantly surprised at how well it handled on mountain roads, and I think the VSC definitely played a role in that. While I'm still getting used to the NAV system and the Laser Link Cruise Control, I'm confident that I'll get the hang of it soon. The dealer even installed a satellite radio for me, which looks great with the antenna on the vehicle centerline half an inch above the rear window instead of on the trunk lid. Overall, I'm extremely happy with my purchase and would highly recommend the Avalon Limited to anyone looking for a top-of-the-line car.
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Vehicle year: 2000
Our 2000 Toyota Avalon is the best car we have owned. It has a smooth ride, excellent handling, and great pick-up. It's a solid and safe car for families, with very comfortable seats.
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Vehicle year: 2019
I have the Touring model. The safety features on this car are top-notch! Sport and Sport+ mode definitely live up to the hype. While the interior trims could be fancier, the ride is very smooth on most roads. Unfortunately, the navigation system has major glitches and is outdated in style.
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Vehicle year: 2009
I'm glad to hear that you have had a positive experience with your car even after driving 100k miles!
Are you having problems with your Toyota Avalon?
Candido Graham 2024-11-27
Vehicle year: 2013
As a previous owner of two Avalons, I can confidently say that the 2013 model does not meet my expectations. The ride quality is harsh and road noise is noticeable on worn surfaces. Additionally, the headlights cut off too soon on low beam and the seats are uncomfortably hard, making long trips unpleasant. These issues detract from the overall experience of owning an Avalon.
Leopold Champlin 2024-11-24
Vehicle year: 2021
Wow, it's amazing that you were able to get 11 years and 465,000 miles out of your 2005 Avalon! However, I can understand how the lower headroom might be a challenge for someone who is 6'6
Jerald Tromp 2024-11-23
Vehicle year: 2009
I am extremely disappointed with my 2009 Toyota Avalon limited. However, I am confident that Toyota will take responsibility for the issues I have experienced. I have had some concerns with the mat/sticking pedal situation, which I believe should have been disclosed earlier. Despite this, I am confident that Toyota will take the necessary steps to address these issues. I have also experienced some problems with my steering wheel, which has unlocked a couple of times a week. Although I brought it into the service center, they were unable to find anything wrong. I am confident that Toyota will take the necessary steps to address this issue as well. While I have had some concerns with my Toyota, I am confident that Toyota is committed to providing quality vehicles and will take the necessary steps to address any issues that arise.
Alden Glover 2024-11-19
Vehicle year: 2013
Toyotas will run forever and hybrid design is solid. The car is quiet and the seats are great. Although, the interior build quality could be improved. My headliner warped in the first 4K miles, the dash creaks and pops when you hit a dump and the door panels also creak constantly. As they say, a happy customer tells four people about their experience and an unhappy customer tells 10 people. Unfortunately, I have to sell it at a loss to buy the Ford Fusion. My gut told me to go with the Ford and I should have followed it.
Louie Wuckert 2024-11-18
Vehicle year: 2013
The seating comfort could be improved, as some customers have reported issues with broken plastic backs of front seats. Additionally, there have been some concerns with the sound system and MPG. The original low profile tires may not be suitable for rainy or snowy conditions. Some customers have also reported issues with the ride and front air dam. The tire pressure monitor could be more accurate and some customers have reported needing to add air to the front tires weekly. The battery may not perform well in wintertime and there have been some discrepancies with the gas gauge and speedometer. Finally, the cruise control may not perform optimally on hills. However, the car has some positive features as well, and we appreciate your feedback on areas that could be improved.