2020 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 2020 Toyota Avalon problems
The 2020 Toyota Avalon has been reported to have several common problems by owners. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues and their details:
- Faulty Alternator: Toyota Avalon alternator problems have been commonly reported by owners. Symptoms include engine stalling, electrical issues, and hearing unusual sounds. The most common remedy for this issue is to replace the alternator, which can cost upwards of $700 depending on the shop.
- Acceleration Issues: Speed control problems are often thought to be the worst Toyota Avalon issue. Owners have reported that their Avalon would accelerate out of control at random times, and the cruise control system would randomly slam the brakes. These issues can be caused by a damaged mass airflow or oxygen sensor, a faulty catalytic converter, debris-infested fuel system, or a misaligned timing belt. Given the danger involved with having a malfunctioning acceleration system, it is essential to take the vehicle to a shop as soon as possible if you suspect an acceleration issue.
- Air Conditioner Problems: Another common Toyota Avalon problem revolves around the air conditioning system. The cause of these issues can be a number of things ranging from something as simple as a clogged filter to more complex problems like a faulty compressor. Most solutions are relatively easy for a mechanic to implement, and if you know your way around your vehicle, you may also be able to implement some of these solutions on your own at home.
- Exhaust Issues: The 2020 Toyota Avalon has been reported to have exhaust problems, including muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, and leaks. These issues can affect the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency, and they can also cause harmful emissions to be released into the environment.
- Windows, Locks, and Latches: Owners have reported issues with windows, locks, and latches, including windows not working correctly, doors not latching, and power window switches failing. These issues can affect the vehicle's safety and convenience, and they can also lead to water leaks and other problems.
- Suspension and Steering Issues: Suspension and steering problems have been reported by owners of the 2020 Toyota Avalon. These issues can affect the vehicle's handling and ride quality, and they can also lead to premature tire wear and other problems.
It is essential to note that while these issues have been reported by some owners, not all 2020 Toyota Avalon owners will experience these problems. Toyota vehicles are known for their reliability and safety, and the Avalon is no exception. However, it is always a good idea to be aware of potential issues and to address them promptly if they arise.
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 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.
Are there any recalls on Toyota Avalon?
Toyota's number for this recall is 20TB17/20TA17. Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Toyota Avalon and 2020 Avalon Hybrid, RAV4, and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles.
Is a Toyota Avalon expensive to maintain?
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. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
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 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 a Toyota Avalon expensive to maintain?
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. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
How long does a Toyota Avalon engine 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.
2020 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:
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Forward collision avoidance problems
- Steering problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2020 Toyota Avalon vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2020 Toyota Avalon complaints
The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Toyota Avalon.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-10
- VIN: 4T1J21FB7LU
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TIE ROD LOOSE I heard a clunking noise while turning the steering wheel to the left at very low speeds. Took car in for service Service Mechanic found left outer tie rod end "with play, loose" Safety issue: potential loss of steering ability while driving Vehicle has been inspected and repaired - (my cost $1308.94) - images attached No warning messages / appeared about a month before I went in... it became progressively worse with time
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-25
- VIN: 4T1E21FB3LU
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: When refueling vehicle, gasoline backs up immediately, doesn't shut off gas hose and pours out all over vehicle and feet of person refueling. Today is the 4th time it's happened. It's been to Gettle Toyota of Lakewood in Bradenton FL for this exact complaint and was told there's nothing wrong with the vehicle.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-31
- VIN: 4T1AZ1FB1LU
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: on 3 lane expressway (US422)about 1/4 mile from where the lanes split( see attached). No cars in front of me but cars in the lane to my left slowed. My car suddenly braked causing the car behind me to swerve to my right to avoid a collision. The adaptive breaking (incorrectly) determined that there was a collision hazard, thus creating an actual collision hazard
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-14
- VIN: 4T1D21FB5LU
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: This has happened 3 times now. When putting gas in and the pump kicks off fuel gushes out of the tank. I only had a quarter of a tank at the time. Only got $1 worth in the last time this happened. If you try to put more fuel in pump will kick off then it just pushes fuel out all over the ground, which could easily cause a fire. Took to the dealer today to get this on record, had a full tank so they did not not try to gas it up. Get no warning that this is going to happen. On all 3 occasions I was able to gas up without an issue the next day.
SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-15
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4T1E21FBXLU
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: I represent the family of a fatally injured rollaway victim. It is on their behalf I am reporting the circumstances of this incident and to strongly urge that NHTSA update the rollaway requirements specified in Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 114. On August 22, 2020, It is believed that while attempting to retrieve the key fob, the driver inadvertently bumped the gear selector forward into Neutral, releasing the torque to the wheels that had kept it stationary on their sloped driveway. (Unlike shifting out of the Park position, which requires application of the brake pedal and depressing the lock button on the shift selector, the shift selector can be moved from Drive forward into the Neutral position, without a secondary interlocking action.) The drivers wife, who was behind the vehicle. was pinned by the car and dragged under to her death. The position of the transmission gear selector was not documented by any witnesses or first responders when the vehicle eventually came to rest on the opposite side of the road, not is it documented in the extensive data stored within the vehicle. However, the data retrieved from the subject vehicle during a subsequent inspection revealed that the Vehicle Control History (VCH) included a field for “Driver Exited Vehicle When Shift Position Wasn’t P” which showed that at the time of the incident that is exactly what happened. Finally, there is ample evidence to support the need for an upgrade of the rollaway provisions within FMVSS 114 – as the facts above show. It’s not enough for a safety agency to simply allow manufacturers to do so voluntarily. . Instead, the Toyota was content to collect the data and blame the driver for an event that it clearly knows occurs and has extensive information about, but fails to prevent. The public needs to rely on NHTSA to promulgate updated regulations that meet the safety needs presented to drivers of modern vehicles.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-13
- VIN: 4T1HZ1FB3LU
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: ON OCTOBER 28, 2020, TOYOTA ANNOUNCED IT WAS CONDUCTING A SAFETY RECALL INVOLVING CERTAIN TOYOTA AND LEXUS VEHICLES PRODUCED BETWEEN JULY 2017 THROUGH DECEMBER 2019 DUE TO THE SAME FUEL PUMP ISSUE FOR WHICH THEY ANNOUNCED A SAFETY RECALL IN JANUARY 2020. THE REFERENCED VEHICLE DOOR STICKER SHOWS A PRODUCTION DATE OF 12/19, WHICH IS WITHIN THE PRODUCTION PERIOD ANNOUNCED ON 10/28/2020. HOWEVER, THE VIN ON THIS VEHICLE DOES NOT APPEAR ON ANY RECALL LIST AND THE DEALER TELLS ME THERE ARE NO RECALLS FOR MY VEHICLE. NONETHELESS, I HAVE EXPERIENCED SEVERAL INSTANCES WHERE THE VEHICLE FEELS LIKE IT IS ABOUT TO STALL: WHEN MAKING A TURN OR DRIVING ON CITY STREETS; IN SOME INSTANCES (INCLUDING TODAY) IT IS WHEN STARTING FROM A STOP SIGN OR TRAFFIC LIGHT; OTHER TIMES IT IS WHEN ACCELERATING. THERE HAVE BEEN TWO INSTANCES WHERE THIS HAPPENED WHILE MAKING A LEFT TURN AT AN INTERSECTION. IN ONE SUCH INSTANCE, A YELLOW TRIANGLE WARNING LIGHT FLASHED MOMENTARILY ON THE VEHICLE'S DISPLAY. THIS ISSUE WAS REPORTED TO THE SELLING DEALER DURING THE LAST ROUTINE MAINTENANCE VISIT ON MAY 4, 2021. IN REFERENCE TO THIS COMPLAINT, THE DEALER WORK ORDER REPORTED TECHNICIAN "WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE CUSTOMERS CONCERN AT THIS TIME VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY OPERATING WITHIN ALL MANUFACTURERS SPECIFICATIONS".
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-29
- VIN: 4T1FZ1FB4LU
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 TOYOTA AVALON. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 60 MPH, WHEN THE SUNROOF SHATTERED WITHOUT ANY OBJECT CAUSING THE IMPACT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LOCAL DEALER HERITAGE TOYOTA OWINGS MILLS (9801 REISTERSTOWN RD, OWINGS MILLS, MD 21117: (844) 202-9429), WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SUNROOF NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 8,937.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-11
- VIN: 4T1DZ1FBXLU
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: RECALL# 20V-682,IF A VEHICLE STALLS WHILE DRIVING,THIS COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.TOYOTA IS TALKING ABOUT THE RECALL FOR A LOW PRESSURE FUEL PUMP WHICH MAY STOP OPERATING.THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY CONDITION WHICH COULD ENDANGER THE LIVES OF MY FAMILY AND MYSELF.THIS CONDITION HAS BEEN REPORTED TO ME IN NOVEMBER 2020 WITH NO REMEDY IN SIGHT.ALL I WANT IS FOR TOYOTA TO FIX MY PROBLEM ASAP,OR TELL ME TO PARK MY VEHICLE AND USE A LOANER FROM TOYOTA TILL SERIOUS CONDITION IS FIXED.THERE ARE SEVERAL CLASS ACTION SUITS DUE TO THIS PROBLEM WITH THE FUEL PUMPS MADE IN CHINA FOR SEVERAL YEARS.
2020 Toyota Avalon recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2020 Toyota Avalon.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed February 2, 2024. A second notice will be mailed once the remedy is available. Multiple phases are planned through 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Toyota Avalon and 2020 Avalon Hybrid, RAV4, and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles. Breakaway pins within the steering column, designed to absorb energy and reduce injury during a crash, could have been damaged during production, possibly affecting the performance of the driver's air bag in the event of a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, an air bag that does not perform as designed can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering column, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TB17/20TA17.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 4Runner, 2019-2020 Avalon, 2019 Corolla Hatchback, 2017-2019 Highlander, 2018-2020 Camry, 2020 Corolla, 2018-2019 Land Cruiser, 2017-2020 Tacoma, 2019-2020 RAV4, 2019-2020 Sequoia, 2017-2020 Sienna, 2019-2020 Tundra, 2018-2020 Lexus ES350, 2017 Lexus GS200t, 2017-2019 Lexus GS350, 2019 Lexus GS300, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500h, 2019-2020 Lexus LS500, 2018-2019 Lexus GX460, 2017 Lexus IS200t, 2019 Lexus IS300, 2019 Lexus IS350, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500, 2018 Lexus LS500, 2019 Lexus LS500h, 2018-2019 Lexus LX570, 2017 Lexus RC200t, 2019 Lexus RC300, RC350, 2017 and 2019-2020 Lexus RX350, 2018-2020 RX350L, 2019 Lexus UX200, 2018-2019 Lexus NX300 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
- Consequence: If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump assembly with an improved one, free of charge. Owners of specific models were notified that remedy parts were available starting January 21, 2021. Owners of other models will be notified as remedy parts become available. Remedy parts should be available for all affected vehicles by late March 2021. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-012. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA02. Lexus' number for this recall is 20LA01.
Negative 2020 Toyota Avalon car reviews
Positive 2020 Toyota Avalon car reviews
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Driving a Hybrid Limited! The car is remarkable! Loaded with a lot of safety features at a great price. On my last trip, I drove 300 miles and got 47 MPG! For a large car, this is fantastic. The quality of the workmanship is second to none! The ride is very smooth and everything works like you would expect!
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I'm so glad you settled on the touring edition! It's a great choice. If you don't mind me suggesting, the additional $1150 safety package is definitely worth the investment. Thank you for considering it!
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If you're having difficulty getting in or out of your vehicle, it might be worth checking out other options for comparison. Other than that, this car is very reliable and provides a smooth ride.
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Hey there! Just wanted to let you know that the latest version of the xle has a few less options than the previous ones.
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My third Avalon. It's great to hear that you find it comfortable and that it has a lot of electronic options. Additionally, it's fantastic that it gets excellent gas mileage!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2020 Toyota Avalon problems:
2020 Toyota Avalon Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2020 Toyota Avalon? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Toyota Avalon Problems and Complaints - 30 Issues
Top 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 ...
2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
What are some common issues that 3rd gen Avalon's experience ...
Dec 2, 2019 ... Codes I've pulled with Toyota's user-friendly method indicate RF wheel speed sensor is the issue. All in all, my '06 Avalon has been a good car.
Other years of Toyota Avalon
Are you having problems with your 2020 Toyota Avalon?
Carlo Maggio 2024-11-01
The extreme forward angle of the headrests is causing neck pain and tension, and the gas mileage is poor. Additionally, the 2020 model lacks a rear window shade, which was a nice feature in my 2016 Avalon, especially in Florida where it helps to keep the interior cool. The abundance of unnecessary bells and whistles is also a concern. In hindsight, I regret not considering other makes and models, such as Honda.
Oswaldo Zulauf 2024-06-24
This is a significant improvement in the 'sports ride' experiment that Toyota tried in 2013. The previous models rode like a truck, which alienated the demographic that brought them to the party. However, this new model offers a much better ride. Although some may find its appearance reminiscent of a whale shark, it's important to note that Toyota's recent lineup has undergone significant changes.
Johnathon Marquardt 2024-06-18
Wow, it's amazing that you were able to get 11 years and 465,000 miles out of your 2005 Avalon! However, I can understand how the lower headroom might be a challenge for someone who is 6'6
Jesse Gutkowski 2024-06-17
Hi there! I recently purchased a 2020 Avalon Hybrid Limited in September and I've been enjoying it so far. However, I did run into a small issue with the windshield wipers. When I tried to lift the driver's side wiper, it was obstructed by the hood and I was worried about damaging it. I reached out to the dealership and corporate customer service to address the issue, but unfortunately, I didn't receive the help I was hoping for. Despite the frustration, I'm hopeful that we can find a solution. Thank you for listening!
Otto Klein 2024-04-03
Have you ever been in a situation where you unexpectedly come across a piece of tire tread on the road and couldn't avoid it in time? It's frustrating when it damages your car, especially when it's not your fault. This happened to me recently, and unfortunately, it caused some damage to my car. It's incidents like these that make me hesitant to buy low slung sedans like Toyotas.