2009 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 2009 Toyota Avalon problems
The 2009 Toyota Avalon has had several common problems reported by owners, primarily related to recalls, in-car electronics, and transmission issues.
- In-Car Electronics: Several owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, including the audio, GPS, phone, rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, and head-up display. The main control for the display, specifically the multi-function button, has been reported as not always working or being erratic.
- Transmission: While not explicitly mentioned in the search results, a post from a Toyota Nation forum mentions that the 2006 Avalon had a transmission that could need rebuilding. The user, who is a mechanic, had major trouble with their Aurora 3.5 transmission and needed it rebuilt, indicating potential transmission issues with the Avalon as well.
- Tire Pressure: Another issue mentioned in the search results is the tire pressure warning light. This light indicates that there may be an issue with one or more of the tires, such as low or high air pressure, a slow leak, or a flat tire.
These common problems with the 2009 Toyota Avalon are based on complaints from owners and should be considered when purchasing or maintaining this vehicle. Regular inspections and maintenance can help mitigate these issues and ensure the longevity and safety of the vehicle.
Are 2009 Toyota Avalon good cars?
No worries there, as the Avalon's potent V6 and responsive six-speed automatic make it one of the quickest big sedans in this price range. And these qualities, along with a quiet and composed ride, make the 2009 Toyota Avalon an excellent choice for a road trip.
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 long will a 2009 Toyota Avalon last?
With regular maintenance, including oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine services, a Toyota Avalon can often last well beyond 200,000 miles. Some owners have reported reaching 300,000 miles or more with proper care.
Does Toyota Avalon have transmission problems?
Shifting Problems
Their transmission would hesitate when shifting from second to third gear when driving at low speeds. There have also been cases where the transmission would jerk or stay in neutral before kicking into gear due to a faulty throttle position sensor or shift solenoid.
Are 2009 Toyota Avalon good cars?
No worries there, as the Avalon's potent V6 and responsive six-speed automatic make it one of the quickest big sedans in this price range. And these qualities, along with a quiet and composed ride, make the 2009 Toyota Avalon an excellent choice for a road trip.
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 long will a 2009 Toyota Avalon last?
With regular maintenance, including oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine services, a Toyota Avalon can often last well beyond 200,000 miles. Some owners have reported reaching 300,000 miles or more with proper care.
Is the Toyota Avalon reliable?
The Toyota Avalon has a good reliability rating and a lower-than-average ownership cost, but has a slightly higher frequency of unscheduled repairs and higher probability of a severe issue. Some owners of the 1995-2016 Toyota Avalon model years often complain about a defective rear window sunshade.
2009 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:
- Exterior lighting problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2009 Toyota Avalon vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2009 Toyota Avalon
The NHTSA has received 90 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Toyota Avalon. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2009 Toyota Avalon vehicles.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-16
- VIN: 4T1BK36B49U
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: While driving my 2009 Toyota Avalon on a sunny day, I could not see clearly through my windshield due to the intense sunlight reflection from my dashboard. Upon searching the Internet, I see this is an ongoing issue with my car model. The manufacturer does not provide any remedy to address this issue and I feel very unsafe driving my car. Please help address this issue with the manufacturer.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-01
- VIN: 4T1BK36B59U
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: When driving my 2009 Toyota Avalon my headlights sporadically go out. Mostly on the drivers side. I have replaced the headlight on 3 separate occasions with in the last 3 Years and each time it cost me $185.00 for labor and the headlight. I also got stopped by the POLICE for it! Now in 2023 the right head light goes on and off sporadically since March 2023. Again, I got stopped by the POLICE! Now it's JUNE of 2023 and both lights went out while driving home at night. We took it to a different repair shop and was FINALLY told that this has been a problem for the 2009 Toyota Avalon for a while as it was a manufacturing DEFECT. A head light ballast I think. Why should I pay to fix this as well as tickets from the POLICE for a manufacturing ERROR!!! Now I have to pay for 2 Ballasts and 2 headlights????.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-03
- VIN: 4T1BK36B59U
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The steering wheel telescoping lever is faulty in that it will loosen in its own causing the steering wheel to lunge forward toward the dash unexpectedly with little pressure while driving.
STRUCTURE,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-15
- VIN: 4t1bk36b69u
- Components: STRUCTURE,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Toyota Avalon. The contact stated that the dashboard was cracking. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed that the oil and plugs needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that while at the dealer he was notified about an extended warranty on the dashboard by another customer. The manufacturer was notified and informed him that the warranty had expired. The contact was referred to NHTSA. The contact had not received notification for the extended warranty on the dashboard. The approximate failure mileage was 134,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-18
- VIN: 4T1BK36B59U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE HEADLIGHTS SUDDENLY STOPPED WORKING. , DISCOVERED THAT BOTH LIGHT BULBS HAD SHATTERED INSIDE THE HEAD LAMP HOUSING. DEALER & TOYOTA USA CONFIRMS THAT TOYOTA HAS CHANGED THE HEADLIGHT HOUSING DESIGN THAT ACCOMODATES A DIFFERENT HIGH BEAM BULB THAT WILL NOT SHATTER. TOYOTA REFUSES TO REPLACE THE HOUSING EVEN THOUGH VEHICLE ONLY HAS 60,000 MILES ON IT. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO BE ELEVATED TO RECALL STATUS. TOYOTA USED, A NOW EXPIRED, EXTENDED WARRANTY TO AVOID THIS BEING A RECALL AS IT SHOULD BE. HOW MANY AFFECTED VEHICLES HAVE TO LOSE DAY TIME RUNNING LIGHTS AND HIGH BEAMS!
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-23
- VIN: 4T1BK36B39U
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: IT HAS A MELTING DASHBOARD WHICH IS ALSO SHINY. IT MAY CAUSE AN ACCIDENT AS IT DISTRACTS THE VISIBILITY.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-12
- VIN: 4T1BK36B59U
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE MANUAL LOCK MECHANISM FOR TELESCOPING STEERING WHEEL WILL UNLOCK ITSELF WHEN CAR IS IN MOTION & SEEMS LIKE A SAFETY HAZARD!
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-23
- VIN: 4T1BK36B19U
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE TELESCOPIC STEERING COLUMN ADJUSTMENT LEVER WILL NOT STAY SECURE AND COMES LOOSE FREQUENTLY WHILE DRIVING ALLOWING THE STEERING COLUMN TO COLLAPSE IN OR PULL OUT. THIS IS A SAFETY CONCERN I REPORTED TO MY TOYOTA DEALER (GILROY TOYOTA - GILROY, CA) IN JULY OF 2019 WHEN TAKING THE CAR IN TO HAVE THE AC BLOWER MOTOR REPAIRED AND ASKING FOR A SOLUTION. AFTER MULTIPLE CALLS I FINALLY GAVE UP. NOW I'M BACK TALKING TO THE DEALER REGARDING A RECALL ON MY 2018 HIGHLANDER AND ASKING THEM AGAIN ABOUT A FIX FOR MY STEERING COLUMN. THEY NOW INFORM ME OF A KNOWN ISSUE WITH THE TELESCOPIC LEVER DETENT CLIP AND A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN TSB-0147-13 AND ALSO THAT TOYOTA HAD A WARRANTY ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM - ZTY TO ADDRESS IT WHICH EXPIRED IN SEPTEMBER OF 2019. THE DEALER NOW TELLS ME THEY CAN NOT HELP SINCE IT HAS EXPIRED AND GAVE ME THE NUMBER FOR TOYOTA CUSTOMER CARE 1-800-331-4331 BUT THEY REFUSE TO HELP. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE BUT THERE HAS BEEN NO RECALL AND I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED OF THE WARRANTY ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM SO I'M NOW STUCK WITH AN UNSAFE VEHICLE. I DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL THAT TOYOTA SHOULD CONTINUE TO STAND BEHIND. DO I HAVE ANY RECOURSE AT ALL?
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-07
- VIN: 4T1BK36B09U
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 TOYOTA AVALON. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEATED SEAT FOR THE PASSENGER'S SIDE FRONT SEAT ACTIVATED INDEPENDENTLY WITH THE BUTTON FOR THE HEATED SEAT IN THE OFF POSITION. THE DEALER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT REFERENCED THE FAILURE TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V396000 (SEATS) HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 173,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-04
- VIN: 4T1BK36B39U
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE VEHICLE STARTED MAKING A SUBTLE VIBRATION BOTH IN MOTION AND STATIONARY NOISE. THE NEXT DAY THE VIBRATION NOISE WAS A LITTLE WORSE. TOOK TO DEALER. THEY SAID IT WAS A TRANSMISSION PROBLEM. I QUESTIONED AT UNDER 60000 MILES, THE SHRUGGED. 6964.08 DOLLARS LATER AND 4 DAYS, NOISE WAS GONE. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-14
- VIN: 4T1BK36B49U
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY THE AT 70 MPH TELESCOPIC STEERING WHEEL COLLAPSED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-05
- VIN: 4T1BK36B19U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VSC & ENGINE CHECK LIGHT LIGHT UP INTERMITTENTLY; THIS TIME AT 154K MILES. I'VE HAD ELECTRICAL SYSTEM CHECKED AT A COUPLE OF DEALERSHIPS WITH NO RESOLUTION TO ISSUE.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-26
- VIN: 4T1BK36B79U
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: A POWER REAR WINDOW SUNSHADE IS AN OPTION THAT IS DESIGNED TO BE RETRACTABLE. A PUSH BUTTON SWITCH BELOW THE DASHBOARD IS SUPPOSED TO TOGGLE THE PERFORATED SUNSHADE TO THE RAISED AND RETRACTED POSITION. ONCE THE SUNSHADE IS RAISED NORMALLY, IT CANNOT BE RETRACTED AGAIN. ANY ATTEMPT TO LOWER IT RESULTS IN A LOUD CLICKING NOISE AS THE SHADE TRIES TO RETRACT BUT CANNOT.. THE PROBLEM IS EXACERBATED WHEN BACKING UP, SINCE SHIFTING THE VEHICLE INTO REVERSE (R) SHOULD AUTOMATICALLY RETRACT THE SUNSHADE BUT CANNOT DO SO. MY SUNSHADE IS STUCK IN THE RAISED POSITION AND CANNOT BE LOWERED. ALTHOUGH I CAN SEE THROUGH THE SHADE FAIRLY WELL DURING DAYLIGHT HOURS, VISION IS OBSCURED AT NIGHT AND PRESENTS A SAFETY HAZARD. AN ONLINE SEARCH REVEALED THAT MANY OTHER AVALON OWNERS WHOSE VEHICLES HAD THIS SUNSHADE OPTION HAD THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM AND STRUGGLED TO FIND A SOLUTION. MANY TOYOTA DEALERSHIPS SEEM TO FIND THE PROBLEM SO DIFFICULT TO SOLVE THAT THEY MUST CHARGE AN EXORBITANT SUM OF MONEY FOR A TEMPORARY REPAIR THAT MIGHT NOT LAST VERY LONG. THIS IS AN ANNOYING PROBLEM THAT BEGS FOR A PERMANENT AND AFFORDABLE SOLUTION!
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-01
- VIN: 4T1BK36BX9U
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 TOYOTA AVALON. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LOW AND HIGH BEAM HEADLIGHTS AND DAY TIME RUNNING LAMPS FAILED TO OPERATE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 82,000. *BF *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-03
- VIN: 4T1BK36B49U
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE BRIGHT LIGHTS DO NOT WORK DUE TO MANUFACTURER DEFECT. TOYOTA WILL NOT HONOR RECALL BECAUSE THEY ADDED EXTENDED WARRANTY BUT NOT ALL OWNERS NOTIFIED. IT IS COST PROGIBITIVE YO REPAIR, SO MANY MANY PEOPLE LIKE MYSELF DRIVE WITHOUT BENEFIT OF HIGH BEAMS, A SIGNIFICANT SAFETY ISSUE EAPECIALLY DRIVING IN RURAL AMERICA.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-12
- VIN: 4T1BK36B89U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 TOYOTA AVALON. WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH IN THE DARK, THE HEADLIGHTS AND THE INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTING TURNED OFF. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO VIEW THE ROAD AND INSTRUMENT PANEL GAUGES. THE CONTACT HAD TO FLIP THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH ON AND OFF A FEW TIMES IN ORDER FOR THE LIGHTING TO BE RESTORED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO HESSER TOYOTA (LOCATED AT 1811 HUMES RD, JANESVILLE, WI 53545, (608) 754-7754) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED DUE TO THE REPAIR FEES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND OPENED CASE NUMBER: 1809132009. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 111,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-21
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4T1BK36BX9U
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: IN A JUNE 21 "T- BONE" COLLISION IN WHICH I WAS HIT BY AN SUV ON THE LEFT SIDE WHILE DRIVING ON US 20 IN WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS, NONE OF THE SIDE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. THIS RESULTING IN SEVERE INJURY TO MY LEFT RIB CAGE (11 OF 12 RIBS EITHER BROKEN OR CRACKED). THE SUV HAD RUN A STOP SIGN AND WAS ESTIMATED TO HAVE BEEN GOING 45-50 MPH. THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER FRONT AIRBAGS DEPLOYED, BUT NOT THE SIDE AIRBAGS THAT WOULD HAVE PROVIDED VITAL PROTECTION. I SUSPECT THAT THE SENSORS FAILED TO TRIGGER THE AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-20
- VIN: 4T1BK36B59U
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I JUST PURCHASED A 2009 AVALON AND NOTICED THE HIGH BEAMS ARE NOT WORKING. I CALLED TOYOTA AND THEY LIMITED THE WARRANTY ON THIS KNOWN ISSUE TO ONLY 76K MILES. MY VEHICLE HAS 97K MILES. TOYOTA SHOULD HAVE DONE A RECALL FOR THIS ISSUE AND NOT A WARRANTY EXTENSION AS IT CAUSES A POTENTIAL HAZARD. I LIVE IN A RURAL AREA WITH NO STREET LIGHTS. NOT HAVING HIGH BEAMS IMPACTS MY ABILITY TO SEE CLEARLY ON THESE ROADS. REFERENCE NHTSA REFERENCE #10037591 TSB REFERENCE #SB-0044-10 REV 1
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-14
- VIN: 4T1BK36B19U
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HIGH BEAM LIGHT BULB SHATTERED, NO HIGH BEAM LIGHTS. POSSIBLE HAZARD FOR FIRE OR ACCIDENT AT NIGHT.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-23
- VIN: 4T1BK36B09U
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: DRIVING ON AN UNLIGHTED TEXAS HIGHWAY AT NIGHT MY HI-BEAM LIGHTS WENT OUT. WHEN I CHECKED THEM LATER , BOTH SIDES THE BULB HAD SHATTERED. I WAS DRIVING THE SPEED LIMIT OF 70 AT THAT TIME COUNTING ON THOSE HI-BEAMS TO SPOT WILDLIFE AROUND THE ROAD AREA. AFTER I LOST THE USE OF THE HIGH BEAMS I HAD TO LOWER MY SPEED AND THE AREA WHICH I COULD SAFELY SEE HAD GREATLY DECREASED.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-18
- VIN: 4T1BK36B39U
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THREE TIMES WHILE DRIVING, THE LATCH THAT CONTROLS THE STEERING WHEEL HAS FAILED. THE STEERING WHEEL DROPS ALL THE WAY AGAINST THE DASHBOARD TO THE LOWEST POSITION. THIS ALWAYS OCCURS WHEN DRIVING. MAKING CONTROLLING THE CAR DIFFICULT. THE FIX IS TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE STEERING COLUMN FOR OVER $1200.
AIR BAGS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-07
- VIN: 4T1BK36B09U
- Components: AIR BAGS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: THE CAR FOR SOME REASON HAS THE AIR BAG LIGHT COME ON AND ALSO THE VSC AND ABS LIGHT S COME.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-26
- VIN: 4T1BK36B59U
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY CAR IS A PUSH START BUTTON. A FEW WEEKS AGO, MY VEHICLE WOULD NOT START SO HAD TO HAVE SOMEONE CHECK IT OUT ONLY TO FIND OUT IT WAS THE BATTERY IN THE REMOTE. AND THE 2ND REMOTE HAD A DEAD BATTERY. FORTUNATELY IT WAS IN MY DRIVEWAY. WHAT IF THIS HAD HAPPENED WHEN TRAVELING TO MY HOMETOWN IN CANADA AND I GOT STRANDED IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE. HOW DID THIS PUSH BUTTON START GET PASSED BY SAFETY. AM I THE ONLY ONE COMPLAINING ABOUT THIS. THIS IS A SERIOUS MATTER. IS THERE A WAY I COULD HAVE A REGULAR KEY IGNITION PUT IN TO THE CAR?
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-23
- VIN: 4T1BK36BX9U
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 TOYOTA AVALON. WHILE DRIVING, BOTH THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE HEADLIGHTS SUDDENLY SHUT OFF. UPON INSPECTION, THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT BOTH LIGHT BULBS HAD SHATTERED INSIDE THE HEAD LAMP HOUSING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FAILURE WAS DUE TO A DEFECTIVE HEAD LAMP HOUSING. THE BULBS WERE REPLACED AND THE FAILURE WAS REMEDIED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 54,000. UPDATED 06/13/17*LJ CONSUMER STATED FURTHER DISCUSSION WITH THE DEALER ( ANDREW TOYOTA) CONFIRMS THAT TOYOTA HAS CHANGED THE HEADLIGHT HOUSING DESIGN THAT ACCOMODATES A DIFFERENT HIGH BEAM BULB THAT WILL NOT SHATTER. DEALER REFUSES TO REPLACE THE HOUSING. UPDATED 9/27/18*JB
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-08
- VIN: 4T1BK36B69U
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: JUST FOUND OUT THAT MY BRIGHT BEAM DOESN'T FUNCTION AND NEVER HAS SINCE I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE NEW IN 2009. THERE WERE SERVICE BULLETINS BUT TOYOTA DEALER NEVER CHECKED TO DETERMINE IF THERE WAS A PROBLEM, TOLD ME THEY DON'T CHECK IF CUSTOMER DOESN'T COMPLAIN. I DIDN'T KNOW I WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR READING SERVICE BULLETINS. I JUST PAID NEARLY $200 FOR REPAIRING THE HIGH BEAM LIGHTS. IT HAS BEEN DANGEROUS DURING NIGHT DRIVING BUT I ASSUMED THAT WAS THE WAY AVALON WERE BECAUSE THEIR FRONT END SITS LOW. I THINK REIMBURSEMENT IS IN ORDER.
2009 Toyota Avalon recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 2009 Toyota Avalon.
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.
- Consequence: If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Prius and Corolla, 2009-2011 Venza, 2006-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2005-2011 Sienna and Sequoia, 2006-2011 Tacoma 4x2 and 4x4, Camry, Highlander, Tundra 4x2 and 4x4, and 2007-2011 Rav4 and 4Runner. The affected vehicles may experience compression of the seat cushion which may damage the seat heater wiring.
- Consequence: Damage to the seat heater wiring could cause the wires to short, increasing the risk of the seat burning and causing personal injury to the occupant.
- Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the heaters with copper strand heating elements and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory, free of charge. The recall is expected to began in January 2015. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226.
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model year 2010-2013 model year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; model year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; model year 2012 Prius V; and model year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During modification by SET to include accessories such as leather seat covers, seat heaters or headrest DVD systems, these vehicles may not have had the passenger seat occupant sensing system calibration tested. Without passing the calibration test, the occupant sensing system may not operate as designed.
- Consequence: If the front passenger seat occupant sensing system is out of calibration, the front passenger airbags may not deploy or they may deploy inappropriately for the passenger's size and position. This could increase the risk of personal injury during the event of a vehicle crash necessitating airbag deployment.
- Remedy: Southeast Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will test the sensitivity of the occupant detection sensors, and recalibrate them as necessary. The recall began on March 21, 2013. Owners may contact Southeast Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.
- Manufacturer: GULF STATES TOYOTA, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: GULF STATES TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 AND JUNE 2, 2008 WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.
- Consequence: THIS DOES NOT MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. DEALERS WILL ALSO CORRECT THE OWNER'S MANUAL. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GULF STATES TOYOTA AT 713-580-3300.
- Manufacturer: SOUTHEAST TOYOTA DISTRIBUTORS, LLC
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: SOUTHEAST TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2011 PASSENGER VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.
- Consequence: A DRIVER MAY OVERLOAD A VEHICLE WHICH MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SOUTHEAST TOYOTA AT 1-800-301-6859.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 AVALON, MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 CAMRY, MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 COROLLA, COROLLA MATRIX, RAV4, MODEL YEAR 2010 HIGHLANDER, MODEL YEAR 2008-2010 SEQUOIA, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2010 TUNDRA VEHICLES. DUE TO THE MANNER IN WHICH THE FRICTION LEVER INTERACTS WITH THE SLIDING SURFACE OF THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL INSIDE THE PEDAL SENSOR ASSEMBLY, THE SLIDING SURFACE OF THE LEVER MAY BECOME SMOOTH DURING VEHICLE OPERATION. IN THIS CONDITION, IF CONDENSATION OCCURS ON THE SURFACE, AS MAY OCCUR FROM HEATER OPERATION (WITHOUT A/C) WHEN THE PEDAL ASSEMBLY IS COLD, THE FRICTION WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL IS OPERATED MAY INCREASE, WHICH MAY RESULT IN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BECOMING HARDER TO DEPRESS, SLOWER TO RETURN, OR, IN THE WORST CASE, MECHANICALLY STUCK IN A PARTIALLY DEPRESSED POSITION.
- Consequence: THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL MAY BECOME HARD TO DEPRESS, SLOW TO RETURN TO IDLE, OR, IN THE WORST CASE, MECHANICALLY STUCK IN A PARTIALLY DEPRESSED POSITION, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REINFORCEMENT BAR IN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WHICH WILL ALLOW THE PEDAL TO OPERATE SMOOTHLY. GM WILL NOTIFY OWNERS FOR THE PONTIAC VIBE PLEASE SEE 10V-018. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON FEBRUARY 5, 2010 AND WILL BE COMPLETED ON MARCH 15, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2010 PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL CAN GET STUCK IN THE WIDE OPEN POSITION DUE TO ITS BEING TRAPPED BY AN UNSECURED OR INCOMPATIBLE DRIVER'S FLOOR MAT.
- Consequence: A STUCK OPEN ACCELERATOR PEDAL MAY RESULT IN VERY HIGH VEHICLE SPEEDS AND MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO STOP THE VEHICLE, WHICH COULD CAUSE A CRASH, SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
- Remedy: TOYOTA FILED AN AMENDED DEFECT REPORT ON NOVEMBER 25, 2009, STATING THAT DEALERS WILL MODIFY THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND, ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, ALTER THE SHAPE OF THE FLOOR SURFACE UNDER THE PEDAL. THESE CHANGES ADDRESS THE RISK OF PEDAL ENTRAPMENT DUE TO INTERFERENCE WITH THE FLOOR MAT. REDESIGNED ACCELERATOR PEDALS WILL BECOME AVAILABLE BEGINNING IN APRIL 2010 AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE ANY MODIFIED PEDAL WITH THE NEW PEDAL IF DESIRED. ALSO, DEALERS WILL REPLACE ANY GENUINE TOYOTA OR LEXUS ALL-WEATHER FLOOR MATS WITH REDESIGNED ALL-WEATHER MATS, OR REPURCHASE THE PREVIOUS MATS FROM OWNERS WHO DO NOT WANT THE NEW ONES. ADDITIONALLY, SOFTWARE MODIFICATIONS WILL BE INSTALLED ON CAMRY, AVALON AND LEXUS ES 350, IS 350 AND IS 250 MODELS THAT WILL ENSURE THAT THE BRAKE OVERRIDES THE ACCELERATOR IN THE EVENT BOTH BRAKE AND ACCELERATOR PEDALS ARE APPLIED. TOYOTA WILL BEGIN MAILING LETTERS TO OWNERS ON DECEMBER 31, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331, LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987.
Negative 2009 Toyota Avalon car reviews
Positive 2009 Toyota Avalon car reviews
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I'm glad to hear that you have had a positive experience with your car even after driving 100k miles!
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I've been driving Avalons since 1996 and have owned several models, including the 1997, 2001, 2003, 2005, 2006, and now the 2009. I must say, this is the best Avalon I've ever had. It's incredibly refined, handles beautifully, and is extremely comfortable. My car is fully loaded with all the features I need, except for the remote starter. I've noticed a significant improvement in handling on winding country roads compared to my 2006 model, and I feel more connected to the road. As a car enthusiast and an older gentleman, this vehicle meets all of my current automotive desires. While I don't expect it to be a racing machine, I have driven Porches, Maseratis, and Citroens, so I know what to expect. In conclusion, this is the best Avalon yet.
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This is a great car and offers excellent value for the money. It is comfortable, quiet, and highly fuel efficient. With some minor tweaks to the exterior design and interior layout, it has the potential to become the best car Toyota makes.
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Hi George, it's great to hear that you're enjoying your 2009 Toyota Avalon with 55781 miles! It sounds like you've found a reliable and trustworthy car that you can count on. Thanks for sharing your positive experience!
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a great vehicle
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2009 Toyota Avalon problems:
2009 Toyota Avalon Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Problem with your 2009 Toyota Avalon? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2009 Toyota Avalon.
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Mar 19, 2011 ... Transmission is n is slipping and car hestitaing. Only has 52000 on 2009 Toyota Avalon. ... Toyota has also issued a service bulletin or two for ...
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Are you having problems with your 2009 Toyota Avalon?
Jerald Tromp 2024-11-23
I am extremely disappointed with my 2009 Toyota Avalon limited. However, I am confident that Toyota will take responsibility for the issues I have experienced. I have had some concerns with the mat/sticking pedal situation, which I believe should have been disclosed earlier. Despite this, I am confident that Toyota will take the necessary steps to address these issues. I have also experienced some problems with my steering wheel, which has unlocked a couple of times a week. Although I brought it into the service center, they were unable to find anything wrong. I am confident that Toyota will take the necessary steps to address this issue as well. While I have had some concerns with my Toyota, I am confident that Toyota is committed to providing quality vehicles and will take the necessary steps to address any issues that arise.
Sheridan Rutherford 2024-09-29
The vehicle runs smoothly once cruising at about 60mph. However, there is a slight hesitation when starting from a stop which can cause a bit of a lunge forward. The roof molding has become a bit loose and may need some attention. The transmission can be a bit sloppy and flops around during acceleration and deceleration. The electronics are from the year 2000, which may not be up to everyone's standards. The GPS is outdated and has limited POI's, but it still gets the job done. The voice command feature may not be the best, but it is still functional. The stereo unit in the car is average. While this may not be the car you were expecting, we appreciate your feedback and will do our best to address any concerns you may have. Thank you for choosing our dealership.
Enid Willms 2024-09-24
The 2009 Avalon has a major issue that needs to be addressed. Despite being reported by multiple drivers, Toyota dealers have failed to acknowledge the problem due to their inability to duplicate it. This issue has caused accidents and poses a serious safety concern. As an expert in the field, I can confidently say that this issue needs to be addressed immediately to ensure the safety of drivers. It is unacceptable that this issue has not been resolved despite being reported by multiple drivers. Toyota must take responsibility and take action to address this issue.