2003 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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Common 2003 Toyota Avalon problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2003 Toyota Avalon, common problems with this car include:
- Cracking and Tearing Driver Seat Leather: Some owners experienced cracking and tearing of the driver's seat leather, which can impact the comfort and aesthetics of the interior.
- Unusable Manual Seat Controls: Owners mentioned that manual seat controls became unusable due to overweight drivers and manufacturing issues, highlighting a potential design flaw in accommodating different body types.
- Sludge in the Engine: One of the common issues mentioned is sludge in the engine, which can lead to engine performance issues and potentially costly repairs if not addressed promptly.
- Worn Out Control Arm Bushings and Wheel Bearings: These components are prone to wear and tear, affecting the vehicle's suspension and handling if not maintained properly.
- Electrical Problems: Some owners reported electrical issues, which can manifest in various ways such as malfunctioning lights, power windows, or other electrical components, impacting the overall functionality of the car.
- Lack of Telescoping Steering Wheel: One notable missing feature mentioned by owners is the absence of a telescoping steering wheel, which can affect the driver's comfort and ergonomics while driving.
These problems can vary in severity and impact on the overall ownership experience of the 2003 Toyota Avalon. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any emerging issues can help mitigate these common problems and ensure a more reliable and enjoyable driving experience.
What problems does 2003 Toyota Avalon have?
Top 2003 Toyota Avalon Problems
- Rear Window Sunshade Fails and Makes Grinding Noise. ...
- Ignition Coil May Fail After 100,000 Miles. ...
- Check Engine Light Due to Failed Oxygen Sensor Component. ...
- Oil Leak From the Valve Cover Gaskets. ...
- Automatic Transmission May Not Shift Correctly at High Mileages.
What is the common problem of Toyota Avalon?
Acceleration Issues
Often thought as the worst Toyota Avalon problem to arise over the years revolves around speed control. Although most reports simply detailed that their Avalon would accelerate out of control at random times, some reports went into more specifics.
Is the 2003 Avalon reliable?
The average rating is a 4.9 out of 5 stars. The 2003 Toyota Avalon Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5. It ranks 8th out of 32 for all car brands.
How many miles can a 2003 Toyota Avalon 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.
What problems does 2003 Toyota Avalon have?
Top 2003 Toyota Avalon Problems
- Rear Window Sunshade Fails and Makes Grinding Noise. ...
- Ignition Coil May Fail After 100,000 Miles. ...
- Check Engine Light Due to Failed Oxygen Sensor Component. ...
- Oil Leak From the Valve Cover Gaskets. ...
- Automatic Transmission May Not Shift Correctly at High Mileages.
Is a 2003 Avalon a good car?
The car has earned a crash-test rating of "Good" (the highest possible) from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and better-than-average scores from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Side airbags are standard, and Toyota's Vehicle Skid Control (VSC), can be added to the Avalon XLS.
What is the common problem of Toyota Avalon?
Acceleration Issues
Often thought as the worst Toyota Avalon problem to arise over the years revolves around speed control. Although most reports simply detailed that their Avalon would accelerate out of control at random times, some reports went into more specifics.
How many miles can a 2003 Toyota Avalon 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.
2003 Toyota Avalon car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Avalon problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Toyota Avalon vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Toyota Avalon
The NHTSA has received 303 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Toyota Avalon. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Toyota Avalon vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-19
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4T1BF28B83U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I was driving back home, out of no where my car went out of control, went left, then right, hit something and flipped over twice to end in a hill against the traffic with 4 flat tires. The air bag did not deployed. I did hit the windshield. The car was total.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-07
- VIN: 4T1BF28B43U
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Purchased car used 11/2020 Jan 14 2021 had 2 open recalls steering casting defect and wire harness filter to deflect noise from ecm . I lost control of communication of operations. 12/2022 steering lock bar The past 2 years uncovered everything on my own. Learned somebody died in 2003 Avalon in Texas about steering locking up. Plan to talk to class action lawyers over airbag and steering. And arrange my own lawyer with settlement lawyers to make this repair and all tsb to be performed. I will never buy a car unless I can find all tsb problems associated with that car. I hope recalls can be opened especially when you guys in government state safety ,compliance and emissions do not expire. Recall
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-05
- VIN: 4T1BF28B93U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: turn off the lights inside panel. The level of heat all the way up, the same with the gasoline level. The internal lights blink. Loss of power.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-12
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 4T1BF28B53U
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Toyota Avalon. The contact stated while driving 40 mph, the vehicle started smoking and the engine stalled. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with the engine needing to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 96,000.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-15
- VIN: 4T1BF28B53U
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? 1- AUG 2020- MEGA MOTERS- PURCHASSED AUTO- CARFAX AND AUTO GURO- RECOMMENDED THIS VEHISCAL AND SALES PITCH INCLUDED THESE COMPANIES- HE SAID HE DOES GOOD BUSINESS- HE SAID HE WILL FIX ALL ISSUES IF THE ISSUE WAS WITH-IN 30 DAYS- CAR DROVE FINE- HE PUT AN INSPECTION STICKER- IT DID NOT SMOKE THEN BECAUSE HE HAD A HELPER WHO STARTED THE CAR AND PLACED INSPECTION STICKER READIN 10;2021? BUT IT WAS AUGUST 2020? THE HELPER DROVE IT TO THE FRONT OF THE DEALERSHIP- AFTER I PAID 7000.00 AND THUS DID NOT SEE START UP SMOKE AT THE DEALERSHIP 2. AT START UP - TOOK MY TWO SISTERS FOR A TEST DRIVE- GREY SMOKE- SAME DAY- AS PURCHASSED - SHOCK ISSUES-SUSPENTION AND DEALER- MY SISTER WAS DRIVING AS i CALLED TO TELL HIM i LOVED THE CAR AND IT SEEMED TO RUN FINE- EXCEPT FOR THE SMOKE ANDRED OIL LIGHT AND THE SHOCKS- SUSPENTION- UNCOMFORTABLE SCRAPING SOUND- I WILL FIX- AS HE SAID HE FORGOT TO PUT THE NEW OIL CAP ON OIL AND SENSOR- HE SAID HE WOULD PLACE THE TIRE SHOCKS TO FIX SUSPENTION. 2- I LIVE FAIRLY CLOSE- AND ONLY DRIVE SHORT DISTANCE- LIGHT OF OIL CAME ON- BUT GAGES READ NORMAL- MILES WERE AT 9800, DROVE FINE- JUST WAS CONCERNED ABOUT THE LOUD SCRAP SOUND ON ANY DIPS ON ROAD AND THE SMOKE- AT START UP - AND DEALER AT MEGA MORTOR- SAID- TO BRING IT IN HE FORGOT TO PUT A SENSOR AND THE SHOCKS HE HAS THEM AT THE SHOP AND THE NEW OIL CAP- 2 RETURNED THE FOLLOWING MORNING- NO ONE WAS AT THE SHOP- I CALLED HIM HE SAID HE WOULD BE THERE AT 10 AM- - THE CAR SMOKED AT START INCREASED- - HE WAS NOT THERE AT 1030AM- CALLED HIM HE SAID HE COULD NOT FIX IT AS HE WAS BUSY- HE ASKED ME TO COME IN THE NEXT DAY- i CALLED NO ANSWER- CALLED AGAIN- AND HE SAID HE NEEDED ME TO BRING IT SATURDAY MORNING- AND HE WILL FIX- HE WAS RUDE AND SAID HE WAS BUSY- IT WAS SEPTEMBER- AND THE CAR IS HAZARD- IT STOPPED ON MY WAY INTO HIS SHOP AND GOT IT HOME- I GOT COVID 10-2020 TO 4/2020- LONGHAUL-
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-27
- VIN: 4T1BF28B43U
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: CAR'S STEERING STOPS TURNING WHILE DRIVING IN THE INITIAL 5 MINUTES OF DRIVE, IT OCCURS MOSTLY WHEN WEATHER IS HUMID ( RAINING). THE EPISODE OCCURS WHEN I TRY TO TURN THE STEERING AND RECOVERS AFTER I FORCIBLY TURN THE STIFF STEERING.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-20
- VIN: 4T1BF28B33U
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 TOYOTA AVALON. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR BRAKE LIGHTS WERE PERMANENTLY ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO KENDALL TOYOTA (10943 S DIXIE HWY, MIAMI, FL 33156) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR BRAKE LIGHT SENSOR WAS DAMAGED AND NEEDED REPLACEMENT. THE BATTERY WAS ALSO REPLACED. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, THE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVELED ALL THE WAY DOWN TO THE FLOORBOARD AND THE VEHICLE DID NOT ACCELERATE. FOR THE PAST YEAR AND A HALF, A STRONG ODOR OF FUEL WAS PRESENT INSIDE THE CABIN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO SEVERAL INDEPENDENT MECHANICS, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE ODOR COULD NOT BE DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES AND A COMPLAINT WAS FILED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 25,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-04
- VIN: 4T1BF28B03U
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THE AUTO SURGES FORWARD AS I'M TRYING TO STOP EITHER AT A STOP LIGHT OR PARKING SPOT. THIS HAS HAPPENED 3 OR 4 TIMES AND MY MECHANIC SAID THE ONLY WAY TO FIX IT WOULD BE FOR IT TO HAPPEN WHILE HE WAS DRIVING IT. THERE'S NO PATTERN TO WHEN IT HAPPENS BUT IT'S SCARY AND I'M AFRAID TO LET MY WIFE DRIVE IT. IT HAPPENED YESTERDAY AS I WAS COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP BEFORE ENTERING A 2 LANE HIGHWAY. THE OTHER TIMES IT HAPPENED WAS PULLING INTO A PARKING SPOT AND APPLYING THE BRAKES TO STOP. I NOW PUT THE CAR IN NEUTRAL WHEN IT HAPPENS AND THE ENGINE IS RACING AWAY. PUTTING MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE ISN'T ENOUGH TO COME TO A COMPETE STOP. I'VE READ OTHER COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS HAPPENING WITH NO HONEST ANSWER FOR CORRECTING IT. MOSTLY TRAIL AND ERROR. TOYOTA HAS TO KNOW THE ANSWER BUT THERE'S NO SERVICE BULLETINS FROM THEM. I'M AFRAID THAT IT'S GOING TO CAUSE A SERIOUS ACCIDENT OR BODILY INJURY TO ME OR MY WIFE. NHTSB HAS GOT TO LOOK INTO THIS ASAP. P.S. MY CAR HAS 71000 MILES ON IT.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-28
- VIN: 4T1BF28B33U
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 TOYOTA AVALON. WHILE DRIVING ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, THE SRS WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BEECHMONT TOYOTA (8667 BEECHMONT AVE, CINCINNATI, OH 45255, (513) 388-3800) TO BE DIAGNOSED, BUT THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO RETRIEVE A FAULT CODE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 230,807.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-08
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 4T1BF28B13U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 TOYOTA AVALON. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING OR IMPACT. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE FACE, BUT MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NOT REQUIRED. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO COAST THE VEHICLE TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO RICE TOYOTA (2630 BATTLEGROUND AVE, NC GREENSBORO, NC 27408, (336) 387-6004), BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND OPENED CASE NUMBER: 1808082730. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 244,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-13
- VIN: 4T1BF28B53U
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I DROVE INTO A PARKING SPOT, PUT MY CAR INTO PARK & RELEASED MY FOOT FROM THE BRAKE. THE CAR ROLLED BACK AS IF IT WAS IN REVERSE. I APPLIED THE BRAKES, SHIFTED THE GEAR INTO DRIVE & DROVE BACK UP INTO THE SPACE. I PUT THE CAR BACK INTO PARK, RELEASED THE BRAKES, ONLY TO HAVE THE CAR ROLL BACK AGAIN. I PULLED BACK UP INTO THE PARKING SPOT, SHIFTED BACK INTO PARK & THIS TIME PUT ON PARKING BRAKES. I GOT OUT OF THE CAR & WENT INTO THE STORE. WHEN I CAME BACK, MY CAR WOULD NOT START. NOT ONLY WOULD IT NOT START, IT WOULD NOT MAKE ANY SORT OF NOISE (WHICH IS HOW I KNEW IT WASN'T THE BATTERY). I CALLED FOR A TOW & THE TOW TRUCK OPERATOR WAS ABLE TO GET IT TO START IN GEAR NEUTRAL.
AIR BAGS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-23
- VIN: 4T1BF28B63U
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 TOYOTA AVALON. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT CALLED A LOCAL DEALER (PUEBLO TOYOTA, 2220 U S 50 W, PUEBLO, CO 81008) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE DRIVER'S SEAT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 174,457.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-16
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4T1BF28B33U
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CAR WAS IDLING IN PARK, PLACED SHIFT INTO REVERSE, CAR ACCELERATED FORWARD WITH MOTOR RACING INTO A BENCH, DESTROYING IT. JAMMED SHIFT BACK INTO PARK SHUT OFF MOTOR. RESTARTED CAR. PLACE SHIFT IN REV AND BACKED OFF BENCH. CAR WORKED PROPERLY. HAD CAR TOWED TO REPAIR SHOP.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-07
- VIN: 4T1BF28B43U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG INDICATOR AND SEAT BELT NOT ON INDICATORS KEEP COMING ON INTERMITTENTLY. DEALER CAN'T DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT UNLESS THESE INDICATOR COMES ON WHEN THEY DO THE TEST DRIVE. SO IT'S NOT ALWAYS REPRODUCIBLE BY THE DEALERSHIP.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-02
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4T1BF28B33U
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 TOYOTA AVALON. WHILE STATIONARY, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED BACKWARDS RAPIDLY WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT ENGAGED THE DRIVE GEAR IN AN EFFORT TO STOP THE VEHICLE, BUT THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED FORWARD ON ITS OWN A SECOND TIME. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BECAME STUCK AND THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THREE OTHER VEHICLES. M&M TIRE COMPANY OF GREENSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 0458794831. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 103,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-01
- VIN: 4T1BF28B33U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I HAVE BEEN WAITING OVER A YEAR FOR THIS TO BE REMEDIED. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-17
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4T1BF28B23U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 TOYOTA AVALON. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AND CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO RUN OVER A CURB. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOW YARD. THE VEHICLE WAS LATER TOWED TO THE DEALER, BUT WAS NEITHER DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND THEIR LEGAL DEPARTMENT WROTE TO THE CONTACT, STATING THAT THE FAILURE WAS NOT RECALL RELATED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V043000 (AIR BAGS). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 136,000. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-02
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4T1BF28B23U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 TOYOTA AVALON. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING AND OBSCURED THE DRIVER'S VISION. THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A CONCRETE DIVIDER. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE DRIVER WAS NOT INJURED. THE VEHICLE WAS EXTENSIVELY DAMAGED AND WAS TOWED TO A TOW YARD. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 116,000. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-22
- VIN: 4T1BF28B73U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 TOYOTA AVALON. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V043000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-21
- VIN: 4T1BF28B73U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE RECALL REMEDY FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN 15V043000 IS A FAILURE. AN IDENTICAL SYMPTOM TO THE ORIGINAL PROBLEM HAS RECURRED ON TWO OCCASIONS (INTERMITTENT ILLUMINATION OF THE SRS SYSTEM WARNING LIGHT). PRIOR TO THE RECALL, WE ATTEMPTED TO HAVE THE ERROR CODE DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALERSHIP FOLLOWING ILLUMINATION OF THIS WARNING LAMP. HOWEVER, NO ERROR CODES WERE STORED. NOW, THE DEALERSHIP (LOU FUSZ, ST. LOUIS) CLAIMS THAT THEY MUST CHARGE US TO ATTEMPT TO READ ANY STORED CODES. OBVIOUSLY, TOYOTA ENGINEERS DO NOT KNOW WHAT THE PROBLEM IS AFTER HAVING A FIRST RECALL THAT FAILED FOLLOWED BY A SECOND RECALL AND NOW RECURRENCE OF IDENTICAL SYMPTOMS.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-18
- VIN: 4T1BF28B83U
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TOYOTA INFORMED ME OF SAFETY RECALL 15V-043. IT REQUIRES REPLACING TWO CIRCUIT BOARDS. THE CONDITION IS THAT THE CAR CAN DEPLOY THE AIRBAGS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT WARNING AND WITHOUT ANY IMPACT. TODAY, AFTER WAITING 90 DAYS THE PARTS STILL HAVE NOT ARRIVED. TOYOTA DEALER (JOSEPH AIRPORT TOYOTA) IS UNABLE TO TELL ME WHEN THEY WILL ARRIVE. TOYOTA CORPORATION IS UNABLE TO TELL ME WHERE I AM ON THE WAITING LIST. MY LOCAL DEALER TRIES TO HELP BUT THEY CAN'T DO ANYTHING. THIS IS MY WIFE'S CAR AND SHE NOW REFUSES TO DRIVE IT. SHE IS AFRAID IN IT. WE NEED TO GET THIS FIXED QUICK. IS THERE ANYTHING THAT CAN BE DONE? A COMPANY LIKE TOYOTA SHOULD SURELY HAVE SOME INFORMATION THEY COULD PROVIDE REGARDING THIS PART. IT DOES NOT TAKE THREE MONTHS TO MAKE THESE PARTS!
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-05
- VIN: 4T1BF28B93U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 TOYOTA AVALON. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V043000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-01
- VIN: 4T1BF28B43U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE SRS SIDE AIRBAG SYSTEM LIGHT FLASHES WHILE DRIVING, STATES THAT THEY FIXED IT BUT STILL AIRBAG SYSTEM LIGHT FLASHES WHILE DRIVE, IT WAS A RECALL.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-27
- VIN: 4T1BF28BX3U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 TOYOTA AVALON. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V043000 (AIR BAGS). THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER 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.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-30
- VIN: 4T1BF28B23U
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: WINDOW WIPER MOTOR NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. ON MARCH 30 , 2016, THE DEALER ORDERED THE PART AND MADE US PAY$342.00 DEALER HAS REPEATEDLY DELAYED AND FINALLY TOLD US TO CALL TOYOTA.WE DID. TOYOTA SAID THEY STOPPED MAKING THE PART BUT HAD TO START AGAIN BECAUSE SO MANY WIPER MOTORS FAILED. NOW THEY ARE OUT OF THEM AGAIN AND DON'T KNOW WHEN THEY WILL GET THEM IN. MY DAUGHTER IS DRIVING THIS CAR WITH NO WINDSHIELD WIPER SERVICE AND HAS A CHILD TO DRIVE TO SCHOOL. TOYOTA SUGGESTED WE RENT A CAR BUT WOULD NOT HELP PAY FOR IT. THEY SAID THEY ONLY HELP SPECIAL CUSTOMERS WITH RENTALS BUT I DON'T KNOW HOW TO QUALIFY. WE HAVE A DANGEROUS SITUATION AND JAY (WHO WOULDN'T GIVE HIS LAST NAME)AT TOYOTA WAS FLIPPANT AND SAID WE HAD AN OLD CAR. HIS NUMBER IS 18003314331 EXR [XXX] CASE NUMBER [XXX]1 IN NAME OF [XXX] AND HE WAS NOT ONLY NO HELP BUT NASTY AS WELL. I DON'T KNOW WHERE TO TURN TO GET THIS PART OR A DELIVERY DATE AND ACCORDING TO [XXX], MANY OTHER TOYOTA OWNERS HAVE HAD THIS SAME PROBLEM. I HOPE YOU CAN HELP US SO WE CAN GET TOYOTA TO TAKE SOME ACTION [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
2003 Toyota Avalon recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2003 Toyota Avalon.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Toyota Corolla vehicles manufactured December 28, 2001, to May 2, 2004, 2003-2004 Toyota Corolla Matrix vehicles manufactured January 6, 2002, to April 29, 2004, 2003-2004 Avalon vehicles manufactured June 5, 2002, to December 20, 2004, and 2003-2004 Pontiac Vibe vehicles manufactured January 18, 2002, to April 27, 2004. Due to electrical noise, a component in the air bag control module may fail, causing the front air bags, side air bags, and/or seatbelt pretensioners to deploy inadvertently while the vehicle is being operated.
- Consequence: Inadvertent deployment of the air bags or the seat belt pretensioners increases the risk of an injury or crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify their owners. Pontiac Vibe owners will be notified by GM. Dealers will replace the air bag control module, free of charge. The recall began on August 24, 2015. Toyota owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. GM issued an interim notification to owners on March 27, 2015. The recall began on August 24, 2015. Pontiac owners may call 1-800-620-7668. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 13V-029 and 14V-147. Vehicles that had a noise filter installed as the remedy for one of those campaigns need to have the air bag control module replaced under this campaign.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2000-2004 AVALON VEHICLES. DUE TO IMPROPER CASTING OF THE STEERING LOCK BAR, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT A MINUTE CRACK MAY DEVELOP ON THE SURFACE OF THE LOCK BAR. SUCH A CRACK MAY EXPAND OVER A LONG PERIOD OF REPEATED LOCK AND UNLOCK OPERATIONS, AND EVENTUALLY THE LOCK BAR COULD BREAK.
- Consequence: SHOULD THE STEERING LOCK BAR BREAK, THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD LOCK AND THE DRIVER WOULD LOSE THE ABILITY TO STEER THE VEHICLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE STEERING INTERLOCK DEVICE FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 7, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Negative 2003 Toyota Avalon car reviews
Positive 2003 Toyota Avalon car reviews
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The Avalon is not going to win any styling awards or be confused with a sport sedan, but it has no other weaknesses. If you want to feel surrounded by luxury and experience a comfortable ride that even the best luxury car will be hard-pressed to match, the Avalon is the car for you. The car is extremely quiet, and with the upgraded sound system, it's almost like sitting in a theater. Toyota reliability and workmanship come in a glove leather package.
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Welcome to our spacious and comfortable room!
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This is a great car! I've driven many different cars, but none can compare to the Avalon's smooth, quiet, and comfortable ride. And with Toyota reliability, it can't be beat!
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This car is an excellent value for the money. It comes equipped with a range of features including traction control, force distribution braking, ABS 4-channel brakes, a navigation system, automatic lights and wipers, heated seats, a smooth ride, a spacious back seat, a 6-CD in-dash changer, and real wood inserts. In my experience with Toyota cars, the only parts that have ever failed are the American made parts. Therefore, I highly recommend buying this car!
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I really like this car for its ride reliability, good looks, and safety features. Although the forward vision is obstructed by pillars for someone who must drive with the seat far back (like me), the great power and pickup make up for it. I do wish they would eliminate that 'style' sheet-metal crease that runs the length of the body, as it's exactly the same height as the food market rolling baskets and has caused me a $400 dent removal. However, overall, I have no serious negative remarks. Of course, it's a bit pricey, but that's to be expected. I also noticed they eliminated the secondary sun visor. This is actually my third car in a row from this brand, so you can tell I'm quite impressed with it!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Toyota Avalon problems:
2003 Toyota Avalon General questions. : r/Toyota
Mar 14, 2023 ... ... reliability. So what's this generation Avalon like? What are the faults or common issues associated with it? What are repairs like? Driving ...
2003 Toyota Avalon Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
Problem with your 2003 Toyota Avalon? Our list of 10 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Toyota Avalon.
Looking at 2003 Avalon XLS-What To Watch Out For? | Toyota ...
Oct 29, 2023 ... Sludge in the engine, worn out control arm bushings, wheel bearings, electrical problems. Aside from the sludge issue these engines have if ...
2003 Toyota Avalon Reliability - Consumer Reports
What Owners Say ... "It was also in March of this year when one problem led to another. So the original shocks and struts were replaced in March after 20 years ...
2003 Toyota Avalon Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2003 Toyota Avalon? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Other years of Toyota Avalon
Are you having problems with your 2003 Toyota Avalon?
Zack Beier 2024-08-14
I really like my '03 Avalon overall, but there are some quirks that need to be addressed. Unfortunately, the subwoofer in the rear is of very low quality. After maxing out the volume to test the sound system, I blew the subwoofer, which is a common problem for all Toyotas with the JBL system. The stock sub is a complete ripoff at around $280 online, so I recommend buying a 50 watt sub that's 4 ohms and 8
Alexzander Marvin 2024-05-14
This is actually the second Avalon we have purchased! Our first one was a 1996 model. We have noticed that Toyota has made some great improvements to this car over the years. While we did experience some issues with the steering at highway speeds, we were able to get it resolved with the help of our dealer. Additionally, we did notice a few rattles in the car, which was a bit disappointing given the price point. However, we were very impressed with the roominess and comfort of the car for all passengers!