There are complaints, though. Numerous owners gripe about the navigation system being fussy or difficult-to-learn, and others complain of jerky, hesitant or clumsy shifting from the automatic transmission. Finally, many Avalon owners wish for some more personality and character from the otherwise bland-looking exterior and cabin.
Some owners report niggling electronic gremlins with the stereo and navigation system-- though these reports are fairly few in number and don’t seem systematic or connected. Still, shoppers are advised to spend some time learning the location and operation of the Avalon’s various interior controls, and then ensure all are in proper working order. Pay extra attention to electronics like the audio system, CD changer, power seats and climate control system.
There are inconsequential reports from several owners about issues relating to vibrations and wheel alignment, so test-drivers will want to ensure the Avalon they’re considering drives straight and true on flat surfaces. Note any abnormal tire wear that’s heavier on the inside or outside of the treads, which could indicate an alignment problem. Any clunking or popping from the suspension typically indicates a worn out part, and any strange vibrations while driving or accelerating should be investigated and explained prior to purchase.
Avalon isn’t an enormous seller for Toyota like the Camry-- so reliability information and common, systematic issues are more difficult to nail down. One fairly well-documented issue deals with a potentially nasty oil leak caused by a worn out oil line under the Avalon’s hood. In numerous cases, owners have reported that this oil line bursts, causing a burning smell, a mess, and potential engine damage. At its worst, this problem could cause catastrophic engine failure and seize-up during driving, which is a safety hazard.
Toyota has issued a recall to address this issue-- so be sure to find out if the Avalon you’re considering is affected and in need of the free corrective repair.
Also, to be on the safe side, be sure to closely inspect any 05 to 09 Avalon you’re considering for signs of oil leakage in the engine compartment, on the sides of the engine itself, and in puddles or spots beneath the car.
Finally, a number of recall campaigns affect the Avalon in this generation-- including recalls to address throttle-related issues, floor-mat issues and to install new brake-override software that prevents possible unwanted acceleration.
To be certain the used Avalon you’re considering has had all available recall work carried out, or to give it a check-over by a Toyota mechanic prior to purchase, be sure to take the candidate to your nearest dealership.
Some owners report niggling electronic gremlins with the stereo and navigation system-- though these reports are fairly few in number and don’t seem systematic or connected. Still, shoppers are advised to spend some time learning the location and operation of the Avalon’s various interior controls, and then ensure all are in proper working order. Pay extra attention to electronics like the audio system, CD changer, power seats and climate control system.
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| 2005 Toyota Avalon XLS (Photo: Toyota) |
There are inconsequential reports from several owners about issues relating to vibrations and wheel alignment, so test-drivers will want to ensure the Avalon they’re considering drives straight and true on flat surfaces. Note any abnormal tire wear that’s heavier on the inside or outside of the treads, which could indicate an alignment problem. Any clunking or popping from the suspension typically indicates a worn out part, and any strange vibrations while driving or accelerating should be investigated and explained prior to purchase.
Avalon isn’t an enormous seller for Toyota like the Camry-- so reliability information and common, systematic issues are more difficult to nail down. One fairly well-documented issue deals with a potentially nasty oil leak caused by a worn out oil line under the Avalon’s hood. In numerous cases, owners have reported that this oil line bursts, causing a burning smell, a mess, and potential engine damage. At its worst, this problem could cause catastrophic engine failure and seize-up during driving, which is a safety hazard.
Toyota has issued a recall to address this issue-- so be sure to find out if the Avalon you’re considering is affected and in need of the free corrective repair.
Also, to be on the safe side, be sure to closely inspect any 05 to 09 Avalon you’re considering for signs of oil leakage in the engine compartment, on the sides of the engine itself, and in puddles or spots beneath the car.
Finally, a number of recall campaigns affect the Avalon in this generation-- including recalls to address throttle-related issues, floor-mat issues and to install new brake-override software that prevents possible unwanted acceleration.
To be certain the used Avalon you’re considering has had all available recall work carried out, or to give it a check-over by a Toyota mechanic prior to purchase, be sure to take the candidate to your nearest dealership.
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