2016 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 2016 Toyota Avalon problems
The 2016 Toyota Avalon has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to the infotainment system and in-car electronics. The following are the most frequently mentioned issues by owners:
- Charging System: Some owners have experienced issues with the charging system, displaying a "Check charging system" message under the dash. The car may die in a parking lot and require a jump start, either with a portable jump starter or a portable charger. This issue may be related to the battery or the car's electrical system.
- Remote Starter: A few owners have mentioned that the remote starter, which they installed from a car audio place, might be causing issues. However, it is unclear whether this is directly related to the car's problems or not.
- Airbag Malfunction: Although not explicitly mentioned for the 2016 model, airbag malfunctions have been a common issue in other Avalon generations, which could potentially affect the 2016 model as well. Experts recommend replacing the airbag once it has been deployed to avoid any potential risks during a collision.
- Faulty Alternator: Another issue that has affected other Avalon generations is a faulty alternator, which can cause engine stalling, electrical issues, and unusual sounds. Alternator replacement can cost upwards of $700, depending on the shop.
While these issues are not exclusive to the 2016 Toyota Avalon, they are the most commonly reported problems by owners. It is essential to be aware of these potential issues when considering purchasing a 2016 Avalon, but it is also important to note that Toyota vehicles are generally reliable and safe.
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 there a recall on 2016 Toyota Avalon?
Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2016 Avalon and Camry vehicles manufactured November 30, 2015 to March 4, 2016. The occupant classification system (OCS) that activates or deactivates the front passenger seat air bag system may have been improperly calibrated.
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.
How many miles will a 2016 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 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 Toyota Avalon expensive to repair?
The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Toyota Avalon is $463, compared to an average of $590 for fullsize cars and $652 for all vehicle models.
Is 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.
Is there a recall on 2016 Toyota Avalon?
Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2016 Avalon and Camry vehicles manufactured November 30, 2015 to March 4, 2016. The occupant classification system (OCS) that activates or deactivates the front passenger seat air bag system may have been improperly calibrated.
2016 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:
- Unknown or other problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2016 Toyota Avalon vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2016 Toyota Avalon complaints
The NHTSA has received 22 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2016 Toyota Avalon.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,LANE DEPARTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-11
- VIN: 4T1BD1EB7GU
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,LANE DEPARTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: The manufacturer is no longer producing OEM windshield that comply with the a DAS features which are now in operable because my windshield will not calibrate after replacement because there is not an OEM windshield available. I have contacted Toyota. I have also searched everywhere in the states for an OEM windshield Toyota has tried to calibrate the replacement which is aftermarket, as well as the Auto Glass installer to no avail. Toyota is no longer manufacturing the OEM windshield which is needed for the safety features to function properly. The car should be recalled for a manufacturer defect.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-04
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Toyota Avalon equipped with Cooper Tires, Tire Line: CS5 Ultra Touring, Tire Size: 215/55/R17, DOT Number: U93R1CU1820. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the front end of the vehicle was shaking abnormally without warning. The contact took the vehicle to a tire shop and was informed that the tread on the driver’s and passenger’s side tires were separating. The contact's husband drove the vehicle to the original tire shop where the tires were purchased and was offered a store credit for the replacement tires. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The tire was a replacement tire. The tire failure mileage was approximately 6,000, and the vehicle failure mileage was 84,575.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-20
- VIN: 4T1BK1EB8GU
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Toyota Avalon. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to stop immediately and made an abnormal sound. Additionally, the center console was extremely hot, and the driver's side seat electric panel cover had detached. The contact inspected the driver's side seat and noticed there was rust on the seat. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the brake pads were cleaned; however, the mechanic was unable to duplicate the failure for the center console. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
LANE DEPARTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-02
- VIN: 4T1BD1EB0GU
- Components: LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: Clear
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4T1BK1EB0GU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TRAVEL ON THE STREET AND MAY HIT AN OBJECT (COULD BE AN EMPTY TRASH CONTAINER. VEHICLE LEFT THE TRAVEL LANE, GOING UP ON THE SIDEWALK, STUCK 2 GARBAGE CANS AND THROUGH THE NUMEROUS BUSHES.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-03
- VIN: 4T1BD1EB4GU
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THERE ARE TWO PIECES OF ACCORDIAN SHAPED TRIM THAT CONTINUALLY FALL FROM INSIDE THE SUNROOF. I HAVE HAD THE DEALERSHIP REINSTALL THEM - AND THEY CHARGED ME. HOWEVER, THEY CONTINUED TO FALL FROM THE SUNROOF AND THEY ARE NOW STORED IN THE TRUNK. POOR DESIGN. PLUS, NOT TOO SAFE HAVING THIS RUBBER PART FALL ONTO YOUR HEAD WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD. THE ADHESIVE ON THE PART MAY NOT KEEP THE PART IN ITS PROPER PLACE, BUT THE ADHESIVE DOES DO A GOOD JOB STICKING TO MY HAIR. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-17
- VIN: 4T1BD1EBXGU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: RECALL OF 1/2020 STILL HAS NO REMEDY FROM MANUFACTURER AND NO ANTICIPATED DATE OF REMEDY AVAILABILITY (NHTSA RECALL NUMBER 20V024).
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-01
- VIN: 4T1BD1EBXGU
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY CAR HAS AN SOS SYSTEM THAT NOTIFIES TOYOTA OR THEIR CONTRACTOR IF THE CAR HAS BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT, SUMMONS LAW ENFORCEMENT, TOW TRUCK, ETC. I DO NOT KNOW WHAT OTHER SAFETY ISSUES ARE WRAPPED INTO IT. IT HAS A RED WARNING LIGHT THAT GOES ON WHEN IT STOPS WORKING. IT HAS BEEN INTO MY LOCAL DEALER THREE TIMES TO BE REPAIRED AND EACH "REPAIR" HAS FAILED IMMEDIATELY UPON ME PICKING IT UP AGAIN. TODAY, AFTER THE DEALER WORKED ON IT, THE DECIDED THAT THE "CELL SYSTEM" THAT IS BUILT INTO THE CAR AND IS UNDER THE PASSENGER SEAT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED AND WILL COST $2200.00. I DON'T KNOW WHAT OTHER "SAFETY SYSTEMS" ARE RELIANT ON THIS DYSFUNCTIONAL SAFETY BUT I WOULD LIKE FOR NHTSA TO KNOW ABOUT THIS AND LET ME KNOW IF IT IS A HAZARD FOR ME AND OTHERS. THE RED LIGHT STAYS ON WHENEVER THE CAR IS OPERATED.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-29
- VIN: 4T1BK1EB7GU
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: ENGINE HESITATES FOR A FEW SECONDS WHEN STARTING FROM A STOP OR A SLOW SPEED IN CITY TRAFFIC. THE DEALER SAID IT WAS A COMPUTER LEARNING PROCESS AND IT SHOULD GO AWAY. PROBLEMS HAS BEEN AROUND SINCE NEW IN 2016.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-26
- VIN: 4T1BK1EB6GU
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE MOON ROOF GLASS EXPLODED WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY WITH ALL WINDOWS SHUT.
STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4T1BK1EB8GU
- Components: STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: ON OCTOBER 1, 2018, AT 8:25 A.M.I WAS PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE AT WORK IN MY 2016 AVALON (12,141 MILES). I WAS 'RIDING THE BRAKE' TO PULL ALL THE WAY INTO THE PARKING SPACE. THE CAR TOOK OFF INTO LANDSCAPE, CROSSED A ROAD AND WENT DOWN A HILL. I HIT THE PARKING LOT AND WAS KNOCKED TO MY SIDE. THE CAR WENT BACK UP THE HILL AND CROSSED THE ROAD AGAIN, WENT THROUGH MORE LANDSCAPE, BUSHES, ETC. BACK INTO THE ROAD AGAIN AND STOPPED.THERE WAS OVER 11,000 DAMAGE TO MY CAR AND I HURT MY BACK AND NECK. TOYOTA EXAMINED THE BLACK BOX AND SAID THE GAS PEDAL WAS BEING STRONGLY DEPRESSED WITH NO BRAKING. THAT IS IMPOSSIBLE BECAUSE AFTER I HIT THE PARKING LOT AFTER COMING DOWN THE EMBANKMENT, MY FOOT FLEW OFF THE BRAKE AND WAS ON NOTHING AS I WAS ALL THE WAY ON MY RIGHT SIDE. 2ND INCIDENT YESTERDAY, ON 03/16/19, I WAS PULLING INTO A GAS STATION AND WAS ALMOST STOPPED AFTER TAPPING THE BRAKE TO GET PULLED UP TO WHERE I WAS TO STOP AND THE EXACT SAME THING HAPPENED AS MY FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKE, THE CAR TOOK OFF TOWARDS THE GAS PUMP. I WAS PRESSING THE BRAKE AS HARD AS I COULD AND WAS TRYING TO GRAB THE GEAR SHIFT TO PUT INTO PARK. I ONLY WENT ABOUT 20-30 FEET BEFORE THE CAR STOPPED MISSING THE GAS PUMP BY ONLY ABOUT 1 AND 1/2 FEET. I CAN'T SAY FOR SURE IF THE BRAKES STOPPED THE CAR OR IF I WAS ABLE TO GET IT INTO PARK. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO MY HOME AND WILL NEVER DRIVE THIS CAR AGAIN. I AM NOT SURE WHAT I AM GOING TO DO BECAUSE THE CAR IS FAR FROM PAID FOR AND I KNOW TOYOTA WILL BE OF NO HELP. I KNOW FOR SURE THAT EVENTUALLY SOMEONE IS GOING TO BE KILLED AS I TRULY BELIEVE THIS IS NOT JUST HAPPENING TO ME. AFTER THE FIRST INCIDENT, I SENT A CERTIFIED LETTER TO THE PRESIDENT OF TOYOTA AND THEIR LEGAL DEPARTMENT AND THEIR REPLY WAS TOYOTA WAS NOT AT FAULT.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-08
- VIN: 4T1BK1EB4GU
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE FRONT TO BACK SIDE RUBBER WEATHERSTRIPPING THAT MOVES WITH THE SUNROOF AS IT OPENS AND CLOSES CONTINUES TO FALL OFF. THERE ARE TWO PIECES LIKE THIS, ONE ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE THE OTHER ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE. THE TWO PIECES, EACH ABOUT 18 INCHES LONG AND TWO INCHES WIDE, LOOK LIKE BLACK RUBBER SMALL ACCORDIONS. WHILE DRIVING AND OPENING OR CLOSING THE SUNROOF, THESE STRIPS FALL OFF. DEALER HAS REINSTALLED MULTIPLE TIMES, BUT THEY CONTINUE TO LOOSEN AND FALL OFF WITH THE MOVEMENT OF THE SUNROOF. SOMETIMES THIS WILL OCCUR WHILE DRIVING AT HIGH SPEEDS AND DISRUPT THE DRIVER, IN THE LAST INSTANCE I EXPERIENCED, WHILE GOING 70MPH AND FALLING ONTO MY HEAD AND DISRUPTING MY VISION FOR A SECOND. THE DEALER (AND I) "FIX" THIS CONDITION BY REINSTALLING THE LOOSENED PIECE. BUT THE PROBLEM RECURS AND, IN MY VIEW, IS A SAFETY HAZARD. I CANNOT GET THE DEALER TO FOCUS ON THE SERIOUSNESS OF THIS PROBLEM AND THE POTENTIAL JEOPARDY IN WHICH IT PLACES DRIVERS. A BETTER FIX, THAN SIMPLE RE-INSTALLATION IS REQUIRED.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-21
- VIN: 4T1BK1EB3GU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: "TAKATA RECALL" AIRBAG. I HAVE BEEN DEALING WITH MY AIRBAG LIGHT AND YELLOW TRIANGLE LIGHT COMING ON WHILE DRIVING FOR 3 DAYS. THE FIRST INCIDENT OCCURED WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY DURING THE AFTERNOON AFTER DEALERSHIP HOURS. 2ND TIME WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND I IMMEDIATELY TOOK MY VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP TO WHICH THEY TOLD ME MY BATTERY WAS DIRTY AND FAILING WAS THE REASON FOR THE AIRBAG LIGHT TO COME ON. 3RD TIME I WAS TOLD THAT MY CELL PHONE CHARGER WHICH WAS NEVER PLUGGED UP ON ANY OF THE TIMES THE LIGHT CAME ON WAS THE REASON. STILL DEALING WITH THE UNRESOLVED ISSUE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-19
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2016 TOYOTA AVALON. APPROXIMATELY 30 MINUTES AFTER PARKING AND TURNING THE ENGINE OFF, FLAMES WERE DISCOVERED COMING FROM THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE CARPET. APPROXIMATELY 10 MINUTES LATER, THE VEHICLE WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED TO THE SCENE AND EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN UNDISCLOSED LOCATION AND DEEMED DESTROYED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED BY A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 22,000. *LN
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-25
- VIN: 4T1BK1EB2GU
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: MY WIFE'S AVALON HESITATES FOR 3 OR 4 SECONDS INTERMITTENTLY DURING ACCELERATION WITHOUT WARNING. THE YELLOW TRIANGLE LIGHT COMES ON THE DASH BOARD DURING THE HESITATION. I SEEMS TO OCCUR MORE OFTEN AFTER TURNING LEFT AND ACCELERATING. I AM CONCERNED ABOUT HER SAFETY WHEN ENTERING TRAFFIC AND OR CROSSING A ROAD WITH AN UNEXPECTED HESITATION. OUR LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER SAYS THEY ARE NOT AWARE OF THIS KIND OF PROBLEM AND ARE NOT ABLE TO DIAGNOSE IT. WE WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF THIS IS OCCURRING ELSE WHERE AND WHAT WE SHOULD DO ABOUT IT. PLEASE ADVISE.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-02
- VIN: 4T1BK1EB5GU
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: INTERMITTENTLY THE CAR WILL NOT SHIFT FROM LOW GEAR. WHEN PLACING THE GEARSHIFT IN THE D POSITION IT WILL INDICATE EITHER D1 AND WILL NOT AUTOMATICALLY SHIFT TO A HIGHER GEAR. ONCE THE CAR COMES TO A COMPLETE STOP THE INDICATOR WILL BY ITSELF CHANGE TO D AND WILL SHIFT NORMALLY.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-30
- VIN: 4T1BD1EB6GU
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: REAR WINDOW IS DISTORTED. THE DISTORTION APPEARS ESPECIALLY ACUTE WHEN HIGHWAY DRIVING. THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH AVALONS OVER MORE THAN ONE MODEL YEAR.
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-18
- VIN: 4T1BK1EB1GU
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 TOYOTA AVALON. WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AT LOW SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE HESITATED TO RESPOND AND SUDDENLY SURGED FORWARD. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. IN ADDITION, THE VEHICLE FELT AS THOUGH IT SHIFTED INDEPENDENTLY INTERMITTENTLY. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS OPERATING AS DESIGNED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 114,000.
VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-15
- VIN: 4T1BK1EB3GU
- Components: VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 TOYOTA AVALON. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STOPPED AT AN INTERSECTION, A LOUD BOOM NOISE WAS HEARD AND THE SUN ROOF EXPLODED WITHOUT WARNING. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SUN ROOF FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 15,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-04
- VIN: 4T1BK1EB9GU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL. I PURCHASED MY NEW CAR ON MAY 4TH, 2016. THE RECALL WAS ISSUED APRIL 13TH, 2016, BEFORE I MADE THE PURCHASE. THE DEALERSHIP SOLD ME THIS WITHOUT NOTIFYING ME OF THIS. THE SALES MANAGER SAID I SHOULD HAVE RECEIVED THE LETTER OF THE RECALL BUT I HADN'T EVEN BOUGHT THE CAR THEN. I READ IT IS A FEDERAL LAW AGAINST SELLING A NEW VEHICLE WITH AN ACTIVE RECALL. THE MANAGER SAID THIS LAW DOESN'T PERTAIN TO TO THIS SALE BUT ONLY TO "STOP SALES" ISSUES. I NEVER WOULD HAVE BOUGHT THIS NEW CAR KNOWING A RECALL WAS ISSUED, PENDING, OR FIXED.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-10
- VIN: 4T1BD1EB6GU
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING AND THE SUN IS ENTERING THE MAIN CABIN, THE TAN INTERIOR PORTION OF THE DASHBOARD IS REFLECTED ON TO THE FRONT SIDE WINDOWS. THIS REFLECTION OF THE TAN PORTION OF THE DASHBOARD INTERFERES WITH A CLEAR VIEW OF BOTH OUTSIDE MIRRORS. THE VIEW OF TRAFFIC TO EITHER SIDE OF MY VEHICLE IS DIMINISHED, WHICH HAS ALREADY RESULTED IN ONE CLOSE CALL WHEN CHANGING LANES. ADDITIONALLY, THE LANE-WARNING INDICATOR LIGHTS THAT ARE PART OF THE REAR VIEW MIRRORS ARE SIMILARLY DIMINISHED, REDUCING THE FLASHING SAFETY WARNINGS THAT THEY PROVIDE. WHILE THIS HAS NOT RESULTED IN A COLLISION, YET, IT HAS A HIGH POTENTIAL TO CONTRIBUTE TO A COLLISION. IT IS ALSO UNCOMFORTABLE TO USE THESE OUTSIDE MIRRORS WHEN THEY ARE WASHED OUT BY THE REFLECTIONS OF THE DASHBOARD WHEN SIMPLY MAINTAINING SITUATIONAL AWARENESS WHEN NOT CHANGING LANES. WHEN STATIONARY PRIOR TO BACKING UP, THE TOTAL VIEW OF IS ALSO DIMINISHED BY THE REFLECTIONS. I BELIEVE THIS IS A DESIGN OVERSIGHT THAT MAY BE EASILY RECTIFIED BY A MANUFACTURER REPLACEMENT OF THE TAN PORTION OF THE DASHBOARD WITH A BLACK PORTION.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-30
- VIN: 4T1BK1EBXGU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TOOK DELIVERY OF VEHICLE WITH 3 MILES ON JANUARY 27, 2016. VERY NEXT DAY THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START WITHOUT SEVERAL ATTEMPTS. ON JANUARY 30 THE VEHICLE WAS STOPPED IN A PARKING LOT WHILE ON ERRANDS AND WOULD NOT START AFTER ATTEMPTING FOR 15 MINUTES. DEALER SERVICE DEPARTMENT ADVISES THAT THERE IS A DRAIN ON THE BATTERY WHEN THERE SHOULD NOT BE. VEHICLE HAS BEEN WITH SERVICE TECHNICIANS FOR THE 3RD DAY AND THEY HAVE YET TO IDENTIFY THE ROOT CAUSE. THE VEHICLE HAS 212 MILES AND I AM FEARFUL THAT AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM WILL CAUSE FIRE AND SEVERE SAFETY ISSUES.
2016 Toyota Avalon recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2016 Toyota Avalon.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2011-2019 Corolla, 2011-2013 Matrix, 2012-2018 Avalon, and 2013-2018 Avalon Hybrid vehicles. During certain crashes, the air bag electronic control unit (ECU) may malfunction, possibly disabling the deployment of the air bags and/or seat belt pretensioners.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, air bags and/or seat belt pretensioners that do not deploy as intended may increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ECU and install a noise filter between the air bag control module and its wire harness, as necessary, free of charge. Owners were notified of the safety risk beginning March 2, 2020. A second letter notifying owners of the remedy repair will be mailed between March 16, 2020 and June 27, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 20TB03, 20TA03 and 20TA05.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:KNEE BOLSTER
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2016 Avalon, and 2017 Camry vehicles manufactured August 3, 2016, to September 12, 2016. The front passenger knee air bag module may have been attached to the lower instrument panel with incorrect fasteners.
- Consequence: If the air bag was installed with incorrect fasteners, the fasteners may become loose over time, affecting the air bag deployment and increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the fasteners, and if necessary, replace the instrument panel brace and body bracket and reattach the air bag assembly, free of charge. The recall began on February 8, 2017. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is G05.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2016 Avalon and Camry vehicles manufactured November 30, 2015 to March 4, 2016. The occupant classification system (OCS) that activates or deactivates the front passenger seat air bag system may have been improperly calibrated. As a result, the front passenger air bag and the front passenger knee air bag may not deploy as intended in certain crash scenarios. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
- Consequence: Air bags that do not deploy as intended during a crash increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will recalibrate the OCS, free of charge. The recall began by May 13, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is G0J.
Negative 2016 Toyota Avalon car reviews
Positive 2016 Toyota Avalon car reviews
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After enjoying success in a new career, my employers encouraged me to treat myself and get something new. I had my heart set on an Altima, as that is usually what I rent when I head out of town. I test drove a new 2015 Limited and loved it, but with 0% financing on the 2016 models, despite a higher cost than the 2015, my touring came out with a lower monthly payment and had some features (Qi charging) that weren't on the 2015 model. I just had to give up the seat cooler. It's a beautiful car, but inside, it's even better. I have no comparisons to what this is - I tell my friends it's not just a car, it's a 268 horsepower leather appointed computer with a sunroof. With my keys in my pocket, the interior lights turn on when I walk up to it; the door opens when I pull on the handle, and it locks itself when I walk away. It's so quiet that I approached it after doing some shopping and noticed exhaust coming out the tailpipes (which are reminiscent of pipes on high-end sports cars) but I couldn't hear it running. It handles great and has excellent acceleration - if you're into sports cars, fellas, you'll get your wish and make her happy too. There's plenty of room for your tall grown children in the back. I'm a tall guy, fairly wide, and I find this thing a breeze to get into and out of (much easier than my truck). The trunk is big; I'm still learning how to use the navigation system and wishing it was android. Pandora, Slacker, iHeart radio... I even sent my boss a text from the system and he laughed (as it was tagged 'Sent from Toyota Avalon'). The stereo itself may just need some tweaking from me, as that is where I cite my only fault, but really, I guess I could always add in aftermarket speakers and amps. UPDATE: We've owned it for 30 months and only put 13,000 miles on it. I've since moved much closer to work, so driving it around town gets me around 17 miles per gallon. On the freeway, doing 80, it goes way up. No issues, I just wish I could wash it more often. It's still running great!
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I love everything about this car! The handling is excellent with three selectable modes, including a sport mode that is perfect for the mountain roads in northern California. The fit and finish are perfect, and the JBL stereo is wonderful, as are all the amazing electronic features. This model comes with HID headlamps that provide a razor-sharp light beam, and I am still trying to figure out how the car decides to turn on the automatic high beams. It is comfortable, roomy, and fun to drive. I test drove the Chevy Impala and the Chrysler 300 before driving the Avalon, and it was no contest. I have owned a couple of dozen new cars in my lifetime, and the Avalon Limited is by far the best vehicle I have ever owned or driven. Oh, and did I mention that all maintenance is included for two full years? Update: I still like this car as much as I did three years ago. It is fun to drive, comfortable, and totally reliable. And I think that it's a great value considering the features and quality purchased vs. price paid. There have been no mechanical or other issues. No warranty work. Totally a great car!
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Based on the nature of the tires equipped in the car, it is expected that tire wear will be around 24000. It may take some time to learn the various in-dash systems, but there is a lot of information available if you know how to access it. We have owned other cars, but we consider the Avalons to be the best value for the dollar spent, especially since our Avalon is a road car as well as an around the town vehicle. Therefore, interior and trunk space are important to us. After one year of ownership, we continue to enjoy our Avalon and are very pleased with the car. It performed very well on a 6000 mile road trip last summer, with very adequate power and quick and smooth handling. Although we miss the adjustable rear seat backs of our previous two Avalons, we have excellent dealer support. We have been driving our Avalon for two years now and remain very pleased with it. The AC system on our Avalon performs exceedingly well and cools the car very quickly, which is especially important in hot Tucson, Arizona. However, one feature of the cruise control that I do not like is the capacity of the system to slow the car very quickly when descending a grade and the car exceeds the set cruise speed. A combination of brakes and transmission downshifting is used for that purpose. I cancel the cruise control when descending a steep grade. Our OEM tires now have over 27,000 miles on them and there is plenty of tread left.
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The new Avalon has been a great experience so far. Despite the 21mpg rating, I have been getting an impressive 25mpg, and even up to 27-28mpg on the highway. The ride is smooth and comfortable, with plenty of leg room for passengers. While the Entune stereo and navigation system have been a bit disappointing, I have found the car to be reliable and have not encountered any issues. The tires did need to be replaced at 35,000 miles, which was a bit sooner than expected for Michelin tires. Overall, I am still very happy with my purchase and was able to negotiate a price below the average Edmunds price for the vehicle.
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The Avalon is a great car. Our only concern is that the front seats can be uncomfortable on trips exceeding 3 hours, despite our attempts to adjust them. However, we absolutely adore the interior, safety features, and the beautiful Creme Brûlée color. As a result, we tend to reserve this car for shorter journeys.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2016 Toyota Avalon problems:
2016 Toyota Avalon Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
Top 2016 Toyota Avalon Problems · Rear Window Sunshade Fails and Makes Grinding Noise. 228 people have reported this. 71 · Massive Oil Leak and Loss of Oil ...
2016 Toyota Avalon Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2016 Toyota Avalon? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
2016 Toyota Avalon Q&A: Common Problems & Expert Solutions
Feb 2, 2023 ... Have I addressed all your concerns? Do you have any other questions I can assist with today? Ask Your Own ...

Most Common Toyota Avalon Problems - GT Automotive
Top Reported Toyota Avalon Issues · 1. Bad Steering Rack · 2. Airbag Malfunction · 3. Faulty Alternator · 4. Acceleration Issues · 5. Air Conditioner Problems.
What's Wrong with the Toyota Avalon Hybrid?
... reliability out of 33 Toyota models , with some interior and hvac concerns. 2 Common Toyota Avalon Hybrid Problems. A list of some of the most common issues ...
Dustin Jones 2025-04-15
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.
Austen Runolfsson 2025-03-16
The vehicle was delivered to me with an electrical system problem, which took technicians 3 days to diagnose and repair. Although the seats are comfortable, the ride feels stiff and similar to a truck. Additionally, the front passenger door does not close properly, and I need to make an appointment to address this issue. Despite 6 months having passed, Toyota has not yet provided a solution to the Bluetooth-based navigation problem. The software provider selected by Toyota has proven to have inadequate support, and Toyota has yet to address this issue.
Zechariah Pacocha 2024-11-07
I used to own a 2005 Avalon and it was a beautiful car with great design and spacious interiors. The ride and comfort were superb, wrapped in luxury. However, the 2016 model doesn't quite live up to my expectations. It looks like a hundred different models, all looking the same, such as Kia, Hyundai, Focus, etc.
Tyrese Simonis 2024-07-26
The 4th generation 2012-16 Avalons have been criticized for their ride comfort, which some have described as bouncy and uncomfortable. However, it's worth noting that many large sedans have been redesigned with stiffer suspensions, which can also impact ride comfort. If you're looking for a comfortable large sedan, it may be worth considering other options.
Dan Veum 2024-06-17
This car may not be the most comfortable for everyone, especially those who are taller or prefer a softer seat. Additionally, the electrical compartment on the left side of the driver's seat may limit the space for your left foot. However, it's important to note that this car has its own unique features and benefits that may appeal to certain individuals.