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: 2020
Before making a purchase, it is recommended to take the car for a test drive. The transmission may not meet your expectations as it can be jerky from 0 to 25 MPH, making it feel like it is unsure of which gear to use. If you slowly accelerate after taking your foot off the accelerator, the transmission may jerk, which can be an unpleasant experience. It is worth noting that the 2017 Avalon Limited had a very smooth transmission, which was a great feature. Although the 2020 Limited is a great car, the transmission may be a concern for some buyers.
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Vehicle year: 2019
This is a fantastic luxury sedan that comes at an affordable price. We had previously owned a 2008 Avalon with 56,700 miles, and traded it in for $7,500. The dealer matched the private party price, which was great. We are thrilled with the new technology and safety features, such as the blindspot monitor, rearview 180 camera, back up and lane detections systems. We were able to comfortably use many of the features within a few days. The salesman even delivered the car mats to our home and gave us private lessons on using the special features and connecting the bluetooth. The dealership (Ed Morse Toyota Delray Beach, Fl) went above and beyond to accommodate us and worked with us to get a great price. We love the way the car holds the road and keeps us safe. We've only driven a few hundred miles, but we already love the way the car handles. We hope to enjoy this car for many years to come. If you are considering a Lexus ES350 and can't afford it, take a look at the 2019 Toyota Avalon and you'll be pleasantly surprised. Update: After owning the car for about 30 months, we are still very pleased with its performance. We did have a minor problem with the Entune app update, but the dealer easily remedied it by installing an update. Also, the dealer handled the gas tank recall expeditiously.
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Vehicle year: 2015
I can tell you from experience that Toyotas are great cars! I've owned three so far: a 2005 Toyota Solara, a 2012 Toyota Camry, and now a 2015 Toyota Avalon XLE Touring. I absolutely love my Avalon! It's a beautiful car that rides smoothly and is perfect for someone in their 30s. It's definitely not just for older people anymore. Plus, the fuel costs are low for a V6 and you can use regular gasoline. It feels like I'm driving a Lexus!
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Vehicle year: 2021
For this model, we considered the Avalon due to its high ratings from many sources. As we already knew from professional writings, Toyota is considered one of the best car companies in the world. We also have a 2000 LS 400 Lexus, which was considered the best-made car in the world at the time and was built to exceed 100,000 miles of usage. We ultimately decided on the Avalon and are very happy with our choice, just as we are with our Lexus!
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Vehicle year: 2013
The 2013 Avalon Limited is a great car that offers excellent value for money. While it may not be a sports car, it is still sporty and refined, making it a pleasure to drive. The car comes with a range of impressive features, including advanced technology that enhances the driving experience. Although there have been some issues with build quality, such as a falling headliner and rattling door, these are minor faults that do not detract from the overall quality of the car. Additionally, I have not experienced any of the rear view or dash glare problems that some have reported. While Toyota's Entune system can be sporadic with my iPhone 4, I am still satisfied with its performance.
Are you having problems with your Toyota Avalon?
Ed Moore 2025-10-01
Vehicle year: 2014
I had a 2005 Toyota Avalon that had a very comfortable ride. However, the 2014 Toyota Avalon I purchased did not ride as smoothly and felt more like a truck due to poor engineering. Fortunately, Toyota addressed this issue in their 2016 Avalon models. To improve the ride quality of my 2014 Avalon, I decided to purchase new front 2016 Avalon coil springs and shock absorbers. After installing them, I am now very happy with the improvement in the ride quality. The cost for the springs and shocks was around $400.00, which was a lot cheaper than buying a new car with a more comfortable ride. I hope this information helps others who may be experiencing the same problem.
Bobby Bins 2025-09-29
Vehicle year: 2015
I was disappointed with the decline in quality of Honda's interior trim, so I decided to switch to Toyota and thought their flagship would be worth the investment. However, I was surprised to find that the car did not meet my expectations in terms of quality. On the positive side, the engine is well-matched with the car and has adequate pickup, especially in sport mode. It makes a subtle but noticeable difference in acceleration. Although sport mode must be selected every time you drive, as the car only retains normal or eco mode when you turn off the engine, this is a minor detail. The interior is very well laid out and looks great. However, the wind and road noise is quite noticeable in this car, which is more than I would expect for something with a $40k+ MSRP. There are also some issues with the Nav/phone system, which can be a hassle when using hands-free calling. For example, if you need to call a number with an automated phone tree (such as calling Toyota) and you must enter a number prompt instead of speaking it, you have to pick up your phone and dial it from there as the number pad on the car's screen deactivates. In terms of quality, there are some minor issues such as the analog speedometer being about 3 mph off from the digital one, but this is not a deal-breaker. The seat heaters are nice, but the seat coolers are not very effective. There is also a slight buzz/rattle coming from the door panels when the radio is on. Overall, the car has some great features, but there are some areas where Toyota could improve. After four unsuccessful attempts to get this issue fixed at the dealership and with no help from the corporate office, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I took the doors apart myself and added a lot of soundproofing material. While it did mitigate the issue, I don't believe that DIY is an acceptable solution to a manufacturing issue on a new, let alone a flagship, vehicle. Moving on to the stereo, it sounds great when it works. Unfortunately, it randomly loses connectivity with my phone and has even gone into a sequence of rebooting itself on multiple occasions. The problem is intermittent and cannot be replicated, so Toyota offers no assistance in fixing it. Lastly, the car has developed an intermittent hesitation when starting. As best I could, I tracked it down to times when the car sat for an hour or two and the temperature was warm and humid. I even provided video proof of it occurring. Initially, Toyota stated that they could not replicate the issue and ignored it, but I was finally able to get them to acknowledge it as an issue. However, their response was to blame me and state that 'I was pushing the button wrong.' I'm not sure how that could be the case, but I went several rounds with them before finally giving up in frustration. While the engine has yet to not start at all, I suspect it is only a matter of time as issues with cars rarely get better on their own and often progress. As someone who has purchased several cars over the years, I must say that this is the most disappointing one I've owned. It's not the worst, but I expected much more based on Toyota's reputation and the fact that this is their flagship. The best decision I made with this car was to trade it in. I will not be purchasing a Toyota again.
Korey Quigley 2025-09-29
Vehicle year: 2018
I bought this car to replace my 19-year-old Olds Intrigue that was unfortunately totaled in an accident. Initially, I was considering the Camry, but the Avalon caught my attention when I was told that it was just $100 more. The ride is incredibly smooth and the interior is roomy. However, there are a few downsides to the car. The rear window visibility is poor, and the steering is quite soft, which took some time to get used to. The built-in GPS system is not very user-friendly and lacks specific directions. Additionally, the front seats could use more cushioning for long drives. Despite having new technology and an 'ECO' position, the fuel efficiency is not as good as expected. The top-of-the-line model does not include carpeting or a cargo net, which I found disappointing. Although the dealer added these items at no extra charge, the cargo net broke after just one use due to its cheap plastic material. Overall, I regret financing this car instead of leasing it, but I am grateful for the dealer's willingness to fix the issues I encountered.At half the price, most of my complaints (excluding gas mileage) would be somewhat irrelevant. However, given the current model and cost, I expected Toyota to design a more luxurious sedan (is the next step up Lexus?). In conclusion, I am very unhappy and am considering trading in my car for something more suitable in the next few months, even if it means a considerable loss.
Jett Larson 2025-09-27
Vehicle year: 2014
If you're looking for a go-cart ride, this car might be for you. At 15,000 miles, one OEM tire needed replacement, but I replaced them all with the best Michelin tires and the ride improved a bit. The amount of air in the tires affects the ride quality, but it can be rough on bumpy roads. The AC control panel requires you to stop the car to select anything, and it can be a bit confusing to use. The backup screen is barely visible in sunlight, and the rearview mirror blocks the rider's forward view. Unfortunately, the rider seat doesn't lift high enough to see over it. The mirrors stick out quite far and can hit the garage door frame (although the left side pivots). The steering wheel can block the messages on the dash. However, I still have my 2001 Avalon, which runs great even with 160,000 miles. While the 2014 model is not my favorite, the 2001 Avalon is a much better car. I wouldn't buy another 2014 model.
Emanuel O'Reilly 2025-09-27
Vehicle year: 2005
I really like this car, but there is one feature that concerns me. When I'm decelerating to make a left turn across a road, the transmission sometimes shifts into neutral. This can be dangerous because when I try to accelerate to cross the road, the car doesn't move and the engine revs up. Then suddenly, the car shifts into low gear and takes off quickly, almost causing a collision with oncoming traffic. Unfortunately, when I brought this to the attention of the regional service manager, he wasn't very helpful and suggested that I buy next year's model instead.