Toyota Avalon Years to Avoid and The Best Years

Toyota Avalon Years to Avoid – This full-size sedan has gained a reputation for its comfort, reliability, and luxurious features. However, like any other vehicle, not all model years are created equal. In this article, we will explore the Toyota Avalon years to avoid, helping you make an informed decision and avoid potential pitfalls.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned car enthusiast, knowing which Avalon models to steer clear of can save you from potential headaches down the road.

When it comes to purchasing a used car, understanding which model years may have had issues or received negative feedback from owners is essential.

While the Toyota Avalon has an overall positive track record, there have been a few years that stand out as ones to avoid.

By highlighting these particular years, we aim to guide you toward a safer and more satisfying purchase.

So, let’s delve into the Toyota Avalon models that have garnered a less favorable reputation among consumers and experts alike. By being aware of the following years, you can make a more informed decision and ensure a more pleasant ownership experience.

Toyota Avalon Years to Avoid: The Worst Models Unveiled

When it comes to buying a used car, knowledge is power. Understanding which model years of the Toyota Avalon to avoid can save you from potential headaches and ensure a more satisfying ownership experience.

By examining each model year in detail, we aim to provide you with valuable insights to make an informed decision and steer clear of the worst Avalon models.

2006 Toyota Avalon: A Notorious Model to Avoid

The 2006 Toyota Avalon takes the top spot on our list of worst Avalon models due to numerous complaints and a staggering seven recalls.

This model year faced severe issues ranging from engine failures to oil leaks, tarnishing Toyota’s reputation.

The engine’s sudden and unexpected failure, often occurring around the 60,000-mile mark, posed a significant risk to Avalon owners.

Moreover, a common complaint revolved around the dashboard frequently breaking and the rear window sunshade failing. Given these problems, it is advisable to steer clear of the 2006 Toyota Avalon.

Common Problems:

Complete engine failure without warning
Cracked dashboard
Engine knocking

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

NHTSA: 7 recalls and 357 complaints
Edmunds: 4.7/5.0 consumer reviews
J.D. Power: 86/100 consumer ratings
Kelley Blue Book: 4.7/5.0 consumer ratings

2008 Toyota Avalon: Falling Short of Expectations

Following earlier disappointments, Toyota had much to prove with the 2008 Avalon. However, this model year continued to face its fair share of problems.

Headlight failures posed hazards during nighttime travel, while dashboard cracking became a frequent issue.

The leaks in the rack and pinion system made steering the vehicle a challenging task. Considering these problems, it is advisable to avoid the 2008 Toyota Avalon.

2007 Toyota Avalon: Continuation of Troubles

Disappointingly, the 2007 Toyota Avalon continued to exhibit similar issues as its predecessor, with little effort from the manufacturer to address them.

This model experienced failures in both the dashboard and the rear sunshade, in addition to severe oil leaks.

Defective ignition coils were another prevalent problem, resulting in engine rumbling and difficulties starting the vehicle.

2013 Toyota Avalon: Mixed Feedback and Unpleasant Surprises

The 2013 Toyota Avalon received negative feedback, with various recalls and complaints. Issues such as back seats that could unexpectedly detach, unpleasant A/C odors, and unexpected engine acceleration were reported.

Additionally, the lack of a cheaper base model and a firm ride might deter potential buyers from seeking a reliable and comfortable sedan.

Common Problems:

Back seats falling off
A/C odors
Unexpected engine acceleration

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

NHTSA: 4 recalls and 146 complaints
Edmunds: 4.3/5.0 consumer reviews
J.D. Power: 84/100 consumer ratings
Kelley Blue Book: 4.4/5.0 consumer and 4.3 expert ratings

2014 Toyota Avalon: Costly Problems and Safety Concerns

The 2014 Toyota Avalon faced significant issues that were both expensive and challenging to rectify.

Unintended acceleration resulted in multiple accidents, with witnesses attesting to the suddenness and severity of the problem.

Furthermore, a squeaky cabin plagued this model year, making it an unpleasant driving experience. It is advisable to avoid the 2014 Toyota Avalon to save on potential repair costs.

2019 Toyota Avalon: Concerns About Reliability and Features

The 2019 Toyota Avalon exhibited a few drawbacks worth noting. Issues such as excessive oil consumption, problems with the blind-spot monitoring system, and malfunctioning auto-dimming features were reported.

Additionally, the absence of Android Auto integration, all-wheel drive, and a sloping roofline might deter some traditional Avalon buyers. Some drivers also encountered difficulties with the voice recognition system.

Best Year Toyota Avalon | Most Reliable Toyota Avalon Year

The Toyota Avalon is a well-known and respected sedan in the automotive market.

If you’re considering purchasing a used Toyota Avalon, it’s important to know which model years have proven to be the most reliable and offer the best value for your money. Let’s find the best years for the Toyota Avalon.

2015 Toyota Avalon

The 2015 Toyota Avalon stands out as one of the best and cheapest options for potential buyers. This model offers excellent reliability and fuel efficiency, thanks to its reliable V6 engine.

It achieves around 25 mpg combined, as reported by Consumer Reports.

Additionally, the 2015 Avalon provides great value, as its starting price is significantly lower than that of newer models. According to Copilot, opting for a 2015 Toyota Avalon could save you up to $26,500.

While it may lack some modern features like smartphone connectivity and Apple CarPlay, its unbeatable reliability makes it an attractive choice.

The 2015 Avalon had only two recalls, as reported by the National Traffic Safety Administration, further affirming its reliability.

2017 Toyota Avalon

The 2017 Toyota Avalon is another model year worth considering. Although it shares similarities with the 2016 and 2015 models, it still has its unique features. The 2017 Avalon offers a refined and efficient 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 268 horsepower.

Its spacious and well-built cabin, along with superior cabin materials, provides a comfortable driving experience.

Car and Driver report that the 2017 Avalon has an MSRP of $34,195, making it relatively inexpensive compared to newer models. Its distinctive side profile, sleek design, and sporty appearance set it apart from its rivals.

Moreover, opting for a used 2017 Avalon can save you up to $20,000, according to Kelley Blue Book.

While there were some minor flaws reported, such as navigation system issues, the overall driving experience and elegance of the 2017 Avalon compensate for these shortcomings.

2018 Toyota Avalon

The 2018 Toyota Avalon underwent a comprehensive redesign, incorporating several of the company’s innovations. It features the latest technology and the optimal Entune system.

With a standard V6 engine delivering 286 horsepower and a tight suspension for smooth handling, the 2018 Avalon offers a delightful driving experience.

This model received a reliability rating of 79 out of 100. While slightly lower than its predecessor, the 2018 Avalon still stands as an exceptional vehicle.

It boasts well-built and spacious interiors, good fuel economy, and ample cargo space, positioning it among the best full luxury sedans.

The 2018 Avalon offers numerous standard features and options to enhance your driving pleasure.

However, it’s worth noting that there were two recalls and 21 complaints reported for this model year, primarily related to fuel pump failure and subsequent engine damage.

2020 Toyota Avalon

The 2020 Toyota Avalon represents a significant improvement over the previous year, particularly regarding the fuel pump problem reported in the 2018 model.

Equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 301 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, the 2020 Avalon offers a powerful and enjoyable driving experience. Its impressive fuel efficiency rating of 25 mpg combined further enhances its appeal.

The 2020 Avalon shares many similarities with the 2021 and 2022 versions, making it a reliable choice. Its comfortable interiors, tech features, storage capacity, and fuel economy make it a well-rounded sedan.

The cabin is spacious and user-friendly, with comfortable seating and a well-designed driving position.

The cargo space is convenient, aided by a wide trunk opening and decent loading height. However, it’s important to note that the 2020 Avalon does not come with Android Auto integration.

2021 Toyota Avalon

If you are in the market for a new car and prioritizing the latest features and technology, the 2021 Toyota Avalon is an excellent choice.

The 2021 Avalon offers a hybrid option that achieves an impressive 40 miles per gallon, surpassing the average fuel efficiency in its class.

It is also available with all-wheel drive, making it a suitable option for areas with snowy weather conditions.

The 2021 Avalon is packed with safety features, ensuring your peace of mind on the road.

While it may come at a higher price point compared to used models, the 2021 Avalon offers the latest advancements in technology, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced safety features.

When looking for the best-year Toyota Avalon, several model years stand out as reliable options with excellent value for your money.

The 2015, 2017, 2018, 2020, and 2021 Avalon models each have their unique strengths and features that make them worthy of consideration.

Toyota Avalon Problems

The Toyota Avalon is widely known for its reliability and durability. However, like any other vehicle, it is not immune to problems.

Here we will discuss some of the common issues reported by Avalon owners.

It’s important to note that while these problems have been reported, they may not affect every Avalon model and year. Let’s delve into the details.

1. Transmission Issues

One of the notable problems faced by Toyota Avalon owners is related to transmission. Various model years, including 1995-1998, 2000-2007, 2009, and 2015, have been reported to experience transmission issues.

Owners have complained about improper shifting or hesitation when shifting from second to third gear at low speeds.

These transmission problems can lead to a less smooth and enjoyable driving experience.

2. Sudden Unintended Acceleration

Another problem that some Toyota Avalon owners have encountered, particularly with the 2014 model, is sudden unintended acceleration. This issue occurs when the vehicle unexpectedly accelerates without the driver actively pressing the gas pedal.

Experts suspect that electronic issues might be responsible for this problem, causing the throttle to engage unintentionally.

While instances of sudden unintended acceleration are relatively rare, they can pose a safety risk and require immediate attention.

3. Misfiring Engine

Misfiring engines have been reported by frustrated owners of various Avalon model years, including 1995-2010 and 2012. This problem manifests as hesitation and jerking during acceleration.

The main cause of engine misfires in these cases has been attributed to faulty ignition coils.

When the ignition coils fail to function properly, it can lead to a disruption in the combustion process, resulting in engine misfires.

Resolving this issue often involves replacing the faulty ignition coils, which can range in cost from $5 to $50, excluding labor charges.

4. Peeling Paint

Some Toyota Avalon owners, particularly those with the 2011 model, have experienced issues with peeling paint.

This problem has also been reported in other model years. Drivers have observed paint bubbling up and eventually peeling on the roof and between the windshield and sunroof areas.

Peeling paint not only detracts from the vehicle’s appearance but can also lead to potential rusting if left unaddressed.

While these problems have been reported by Toyota Avalon owners, it’s important to remember that not all vehicles will experience these issues.

The reliability rating of the Avalon remains relatively high, indicating that these problems are not widespread.

Why did Toyota stop Avalon?

Toyota made the decision to discontinue the Avalon due to declining demand and a lack of significant improvements compared to other vehicles in their lineup. While cars like the Camry continued to evolve and improve, the Avalon remained relatively unchanged.

This led to decreased interest and lower sales numbers.

However, it’s worth noting that the Avalon may still be available in neighboring markets such as China, where there is still demand for large sedans.

How Many Toyota Avalons Have Been Sold?

Over the years, Toyota has sold a significant number of Avalons. However, sales have declined in recent years. In 2021, Toyota sold approximately 20,000 Avalons.

This is a substantial decrease compared to the 2005 model, which had around 95,000 sales.

The decline in sales could be one of the primary factors influencing Toyota’s decision to discontinue the Avalon in 2022.

Are Avalons good cars?

Yes, Avalons are considered good cars, especially for those who prioritize comfort and reliability over high-performance driving. While the Avalon may not be a sports car, it offers steady handling, a spacious interior, and a smooth ride.

It is often praised for its powerful V6 engine, smooth gearbox, and reliable brakes.

The Avalon is known for being a solid and dependable choice, particularly for long highway journeys.

Is Toyota Avalon Expensive To Maintain?

No, the Toyota Avalon is not expensive to maintain. In fact, it is widely regarded as one of the most reliable vehicles on the road. According to data, the average cost of maintaining a Toyota Avalon over its first ten years is around $4,400.

This cost is significantly lower compared to the general average cost of maintaining a car over the same period, saving Avalon owners approximately $2,690.

The Avalon’s reliability contributes to its lower maintenance expenses and its ability to last longer before requiring major repairs.

How many miles does Toyota Avalon last?

The Toyota Avalon has a potential lifespan of around 245,710 miles. While the exact mileage a specific Avalon can reach may vary depending on factors such as maintenance, driving conditions, and individual usage patterns, Avalon owners can generally expect their vehicles to last for a significant number of miles.

With proper care and regular maintenance, the Avalon has proven to be a durable and long-lasting vehicle.

Which Toyota Avalon Engine Is The Most Reliable?

The most reliable engine in the Toyota Avalon lineup is the 3.5L V6 engine. This engine has been in use since 2018 and has shown excellent performance and reliability. It generates 301 horsepower, providing ample power for a sedan.

The 2022 model, which was the last Avalon available, also featured this reliable and powerful 3.5L V6 engine. Toyota’s engineering and reputation for reliability contribute to the dependability of this engine.

Do Toyota Avalons Hold Their Value?

While all vehicles experience some level of depreciation, the Toyota Avalon generally holds its value relatively well. On average, after five years of usage, Avalon depreciates by approximately 27%.

However, it’s important to note that depreciation rates can vary based on factors such as mileage, condition, and market demand.

Interestingly, hybrid variants of the Avalon, which have gained popularity in recent years, tend to depreciate at a lower rate of around 24%.

This indicates that hybrid models retain their value slightly better compared to their gasoline counterparts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Toyota Avalon has been a reliable and comfortable sedan throughout its history. However, there are a few model years that have had some common issues. It is important to be aware of these potential problems when considering a used Avalon purchase.

Maintaining a Toyota Avalon is relatively inexpensive compared to the average cost of maintaining a car over ten years. The Avalon’s reputation for reliability and longevity contributes to its lower maintenance costs.

It has the potential to last for a significant number of miles, with an estimated lifespan of around 245,710 miles.

While the Avalon holds its value well compared to other vehicles, it is subject to depreciation like any other car.

Toyota Avalon can be a good choice for those seeking a reliable and comfortable sedan. However, it is important to be aware of the specific model years that may have had common issues.

Proper research and thorough inspection before purchasing a used Avalon can help ensure a positive ownership experience.

Remember, when considering a Toyota Avalon purchase, it is advisable to be cautious and informed about the potential problems associated with certain model years. Doing so will help you make a more informed decision and find the best Toyota Avalon year that suits your needs and preferences.

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