Toyota Avalon problems

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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).

photo of Toyota Avalon car production

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Toyota Avalon model years

toyota avalon 2022 photo
Avalon 2022
Toyota

4

0

33

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2021 photo
Avalon 2021
Toyota

9

2

26

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2020 photo
Avalon 2020
Toyota

8

3

23

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2019 photo
Avalon 2019
Toyota

54

4

33

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2018 photo
Avalon 2018
Toyota

23

2

22

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2017 photo
Avalon 2017
Toyota

14

2

14

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2016 photo
Avalon 2016
Toyota

22

3

34

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2015 photo
Avalon 2015
Toyota

48

2

23

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2014 photo
Avalon 2014
Toyota

94

4

28

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2013 photo
Avalon 2013
Toyota

155

4

34

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2012 photo
Avalon 2012
Toyota

30

4

34

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2011 photo
Avalon 2011
Toyota

105

1

30

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2010 photo
Avalon 2010
Toyota

44

7

20

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2009 photo
Avalon 2009
Toyota

90

7

26

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2008 photo
Avalon 2008
Toyota

348

6

29

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2007 photo
Avalon 2007
Toyota

240

6

36

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2006 photo
Avalon 2006
Toyota

359

7

35

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2005 photo
Avalon 2005
Toyota

226

7

35

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2004 photo
Avalon 2004
Toyota

205

3

37

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2003 photo
Avalon 2003
Toyota

303

2

34

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2002 photo
Avalon 2002
Toyota

141

1

26

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2001 photo
Avalon 2001
Toyota

140

2

33

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 2000 photo
Avalon 2000
Toyota

185

2

43

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 1999 photo
Avalon 1999
Toyota

97

2

30

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 1998 photo
Avalon 1998
Toyota

195

2

36

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 1997 photo
Avalon 1997
Toyota

132

1

33

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 1996 photo
Avalon 1996
Toyota

120

0

33

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota avalon 1995 photo
Avalon 1995
Toyota

85

0

31

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Toyota Avalon problems

Based on complaints from Toyota Avalon owners, several common problems have been reported with these cars:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

Toyota Avalon

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

  1. Monte Langworth 2025-04-20

    Vehicle year: 2015

    I purchased a 2015 Avalon in July. Although it was a nice vehicle, I realized it did not meet my expectations as I drove it more. Due to its reputation, I expected a luxurious and comfortable ride. However, I experienced wind noise and difficulty getting in and out of the car. It was disappointing, to say the least. The dealership was unable to fix the wind noise issue, and Toyota's Houston division did not offer any alternatives to help me purchase a different vehicle. Despite this, I was able to trade it in for a 2016 4Runner, which I absolutely love. Although it is not completely soundproof, it is more comfortable and rides better than my previous purchase of a so-called 'luxury' vehicle. Overall, I am much happier with my current vehicle. BCS

  2. Christopher Bernhard 2025-04-20

    Vehicle year: 1997

    In 1996 and 1997, some aftermarket wheels were sold in the US that could not be balanced correctly, even by Toyota. When I purchased my car from a Toyota dealer, they informed me that these wheels were discontinued due to complaints. While I agree that this was a frustrating issue, I appreciate the dealer's honesty and willingness to inform me about the situation. While I may consider other options for my next vehicle, I still value Toyota's quality and service.

  3. Dustin Jones 2025-04-15

    Vehicle year: 2016

    I have owned three Avalons in the past - a 2003, 2007, and 2011 - so I was considering purchasing a new 2016 model. To be certain, I test drove the Touring model. While the 'cockpit' style seat was a bit of a change, it did not detract from the overall experience. The interior felt a bit more compact, but I believe this was done to make it easier to access from a seat that limits movement. The ride was a bit stiff on city streets, but still manageable. The trunk is quite spacious, although the roofline does limit access somewhat. The salesman even mentioned that some current Avalon owners have expressed disappointment with the redesigned model.

  4. Brooks Powlowski 2025-04-03

    Vehicle year: 2009

    The dealer has suggested that the tires are causing the annoying drone from the rear of my 2009 Avalon XLS. However, after replacing the tires twice, the problem persists and seems to be worsening. Even rotating the tires has not helped. It is clear that the issue lies elsewhere. Interestingly, a friend of mine who also owns a 2009 Avalon has experienced the same problem. As a loyal customer who previously owned a 2002 Avalon, which was a great car, I am confident that this issue can be resolved with further investigation.

  5. Philip Schumm 2025-04-03

    Vehicle year: 2007

    Although this year and model were expected to live up to the Toyota name, unfortunately, it has not been as reliable as expected. Some have compared it to American sedans, and unfortunately, it falls short in terms of engine reliability, often requiring costly repairs. While some owners may have had positive experiences, it is important to note that the cylinder coils have been known to fail regularly, sometimes even before reaching 100k miles. It would be beneficial for Toyota to address this issue and consider a recall. As a potential buyer, it is important to be aware of these potential issues.

Latest positive Toyota Avalon car reviews

  1. Torrey Jaskolski 2025-04-21

    Vehicle year: 2012

    I chose the 2011 Avalon due to the large side windows in the front and rear, which is not common in many cars. Additionally, it has a full bench seat in the rear without the raised bump in the middle, making it comfortable for three passengers. The car's overall size and ride make it very comfortable to ride in, and there are many little conveniences built into the passenger compartment that are very useful. I was in a rear-end collision at 55MPH, and the car's collapsible design absorbed the shock, allowing my wife and me to walk away unhurt, even though the car was totaled. I searched specifically for a 2011 Avalon when replacing the car and am delighted with it. Even after nearly 7 years since the first Avalon and 5 years since the second, I am still very pleased with this vehicle. It has approximately 94,000 miles, and I have had no problems whatsoever with either of my 2011 Avalons. It's a great car!

  2. Moises Rosenbaum 2025-04-20

    Vehicle year: 1997

    I have had a great experience with this car since purchasing it used. The only issue I have had was with the windshield wipers, which I replaced. I was warned about a potential sludging problem with the v6s and decided to get the extended warranty, which turned out to be a good decision. After about 6 months, the car started to blow some light blue exhaust, but the dealer handled it and since then, I haven't had to do anything else besides regular maintenance and oil changes. I would highly recommend this car to anyone!

  3. Izaiah O'Hara 2025-04-20

    Vehicle year: 1995

    I replaced an older Camry with this car because of its reliability and rear seat legroom. I have owned this car for 5 years/75K miles and it is now 19 years old with 216K miles on the clock. Unlike other cars I have owned, this one has proven to be incredibly reliable. I do all the basic maintenance myself and it has never let me down. Running on 100% gas, I have achieved as good as 26mpg combined and 29mpg on the highway. Even on ethanol gas, I get 22mpg combined.

  4. Abdullah Dicki 2025-04-19

    Vehicle year: 2007

    Hi there! Thank you for sharing your experience with us. I'm glad to hear that your 2007 Avalon was a great car and that you enjoyed the limousine feel of the back seat. It's also great to hear that you never had any problems with it and that it got great gas mileage. I completely understand your concern about the safety issue with the accelerator, and it's always better to be safe than sorry. I'm sure that Toyota will address this issue and you'll be able to buy another Toyota in the future with peace of mind. Thank you again for sharing your story with us!

  5. Jefferey Schoen 2025-04-17

    Vehicle year: 2004

    The feel and roominess are great, and the noise level is impressively low. Handling is very good, and the ride is smooth. The power is adequate. While I'm not entirely satisfied with the actual mileage, which falls short of the listed average, I still find the highway mileage of 26 and town mileage of 20 to be respectable. It's worth noting that the highway mileage at 60 mph averages at 32, and at 75 it's 25.

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