Best and Worst Toyota Avalon Years – [Researched Data]
In this Best and Worst Toyota Avalon Years review article, we will discuss various generations of the Toyota Avalon, providing valuable insights into the standout years for potential buyers and those to approach with caution.
This article is based on 100% authentic data, personal usage, user interviews, and general research.
Utilizing credible sources like NHTSA, Consumer Reports, and Kelley Blue Book, our analysis integrates data, reviews, and real-world experiences to offer an unbiased assessment of Avalon’s performance, reliability, and known issues across different model years.
This article serves as a go-to resource for individuals seeking not only the most reliable Toyota Avalon years aligned with their budget and requirements but also highlights the less dependable Avalon years, outlining common problems specific to each.
Let’s dive right into it:
The Five Generations of Toyota Avalon
The Toyota Avalon, renowned for its spacious interiors and refined elegance, made its mark on the automotive scene with the debut of its first generation in the mid-’90s.
However, we have focused this review on the new millennium, starting with the second generation.
Emerging in 2000, the Avalon entered the full-size sedan segment with authority, featuring a more powerful V6 engine, advanced safety enhancements, and a sophisticated design.
Here is a table consisting of different generations and the years they lasted:
Years | Generation |
---|---|
2000 – 2004 | 2nd Generation: XX20 |
2005 – 2012 | 3rd Generation: XX30 |
2013 – 2018 | 4th Generation: XX40 |
2019 – 2022 | 5th Generation: XX50 |
Following is a list of sources and factors we used to gather our data:
- Owner-reported reliability (surveys)
- Average Annual maintenance costs
- Rating for Safety
- U.S News Ratings
- CarComplains (recorded Problems and Complaints)
- Consumer Reports
- NHTSA investigations and complaints
- Edmunds owner ratings
- JD Power owner ratings
- Kelley’s Blue Book owner ratings
- Vehicle history owner ratings
- com owner ratings
After long hours of research, we have created the following table showing the best, normal, and poor years, and each generation of Toyota Avalon.
Generation | Best Years | Normal Years | Poor Years |
---|---|---|---|
2nd Generation: XX20 | 2000 2001 2002 | N/A | 2003 2004 |
3rd Generation: XX30 | 2011 2012 | 2009 2010 | 2005 2006 2007 2008 |
4th Generation: XX40 | 2016 2017 2018 | N/A | 2013 2014 2015 |
5th Generation: XX50 | 2020 | 2021 2022 | 2019 |
The Best and Worst Toyota Avalon Years of the 2nd Generation
As Toyota’s Avalon ventured into the new millennium, its objective was clear: to establish itself as a flagship sedan in the United States, seamlessly blending luxury with reliability.
The 2nd Generation of the Avalon, from 2000 to 2002, received overwhelmingly positive reviews.
However, the later facelift models in 2003 and 2004 faced notable criticism and owner complaints.
This shift in sentiment is reflected in ratings from reputable sources like Kelley Blue Book (KBB) and Edmunds, both of which awarded this generation an impressive 4.8, marking it as the highest-rated among all Avalon generations.
The Best Years: 2000, 2001, 2002
If you’re eyeing a second-generation Avalon, the early years, especially 2000, 2001, and 2002, shine as the best choices.
These models boasted a 3.0-liter 1MZ-FE V6 210HP engine, sharing its prowess with other Toyota vehicles like the Camry, Sienna, and Highlander.
This engine, with 210 horsepower, made driving smooth and responsive, paired with a refined 4-speed automatic transmission.
The Avalon lineup included different trims, from the base XL to the upscale XLS, each offering variations in luxury, tech features, and safety.
Fuel efficiency was commendable, with 13 mpg in the city and an impressive 31 mpg on the highway.
Standard features included electroluminescent Optitron gauges, ABS, side airbags, and 15-inch alloy wheels. Optional additions ranged from a JBL audio system to vehicle stability control.
Dual climate control, larger 16-inch wheels, and power seats were also available.
However, keep the following issues in mind with these early models:
- The 2000 and 2001 Avalons may have engine and steering problems, common for this generation.
- The 2002 Avalon might face faulty impact and occupant detection sensors.
The Poor Years: 2003, 2004
If you’re thinking about the facelifted models in 2003 and 2004, it’s a clear no-go. Here’s why:
- Steering problems were rampant, leading to recalls addressing the risk of potential crashes.
- Airbag issues plagued these years, with reports of inadvertent deployments due to electrical interference.
- Specifically for the 2004 Avalon, a recall addressed a defective crankshaft pulley, posing a risk of losing power steering.
Adding to the troubles were problems with vehicle speed control, with instances of unexpected acceleration even in parking.
Engine sludge was another significant concern, emphasizing the need for rigorous maintenance to avoid potential engine issues.
Check NHTSA complaints for the following years:
Recommended Read: Best and Worst Toyota Sequoia Models
The Best and Worst Toyota Avalon Years of the 3rd Generation
The third generation of Toyota Avalon combined advanced features, a modern design, and a powertrain to manufacture a stylish beast.
The Best Years: 2011, 2012
For those eyeing the third-generation Avalon, the standout years are undeniably 2011 and 2012.
Toyota raised the bar during this period, introducing a 3.5-liter 2GR-FE V6 engine with 280 horsepower and a smooth 5-speed automatic transmission.
This not only delivered power but also increased efficiency, achieving 15 mpg in the city and an impressive 34 mpg on the highway.
The 2011 Avalon underwent a facelift, which gave the design a new life.
This generation also includes modern features like touchscreen navigation, advanced climate control, and enhanced JBL audio systems.
Safety wasn’t overlooked, incorporating blind-spot monitoring and rear-cross traffic alerts.
People from consumer reports praised these years, with high reliability and owner satisfaction scores. J.D. Power gave an average rating of 86 out of 100, while Kelley Blue Book (KBB) and Edmunds rated 4.7 and 4.6 out of 5, respectively.
The Normal Years: 2009, 2010
The normal or neutral years from 2009 and 2010 were competent, but not without some residual residual from earlier models.
While they shared the robust 3.5-liter V6 engine and technological advancements.
Thorough research into earlier model issues is recommended. Nothing significant happened in these years.
The Poor Years: 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
If you’re wondering about the not-so-great years, look no further than the initial years of the 3rd Generation, from 2005 to 2008. Here’s why:
- Vehicle speed control issues led to unpredictable accelerations, and a 2010 recall addressed concerns over the acceleration pedal becoming hard to depress.
- Steering problems, including irritating clacking noises and steering column collapse during active driving, were reported.
- Oil leak issues, originating from VVT-i oil lines, timing covers, and oil hoses, plagued the 2006 model and escalated in 2007 and 2008.
- The 2008 model faced widely reported headlight issues, compromising nighttime driving safety.
Check NHTSA complaints for the following years:
Recommended Read: Best and Worst Toyota Sienna Models
The Best and Worst Toyota Avalon Years of the 4th Generation
The Best Years: 2016, 2017, 2018
For those considering the fourth-generation Toyota Avalon, the shining years are undeniably 2016, 2017, and 2018.
During this period, Toyota made meticulous efforts to address concerns from earlier models, resulting in a substantial improvement in the overall driving experience. This was the golden period, according to our expert analysis.
This vehicle has a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, delivering a harmonious balance of performance and efficiency.
The Avalon Hybrid is equipped with a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine producing 200 hp in total.
It showed exceptional fuel efficiency, with 16 mpg in the city and an impressive 34 mpg on the highway for the gasoline engine, 40 mpg in the city, and 39 mpg on the highway for the Avalon Hybrid.
Standard features included touchscreen infotainment systems with enhanced connectivity options, advanced driver-assistance systems, and cutting-edge safety features like adaptive cruise control and automatic high beams.
The 2016 Avalon received updates such as an improved suspension for enhanced ride comfort, revised wheel designs, and the standard incorporation of Toyota Safety Sense P.
The Poor Years: 2013, 2014, 2015
From 2013 to 2015, Avalon was not in a good space, as these years experienced significant issues with the interior, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), and brakes.
The 2013 Avalon faced complaints related to vehicle speed control, ranging from unintended accelerations to unexpected stalls.
Glitches in the airbag system were reported, coupled with issues like water leakage from the sunroof.
In the subsequent years, 2014 and 2015 Avalons inherited some of the 2013 issues while introducing new concerns, particularly related to braking.
Owners recounted distressing experiences of increased braking distances or unintended brake activations.
One of the recalls during this period attributed such problems to the Pre-Collision System (PCS), which had the potential to misinterpret certain road conditions, leading to sudden and unexpected brake activations.
Check NHTSA complaints for the following years:
Recommended Read: Best and Worst Toyota Corolla years
The Best and Worst Toyota Avalon Years of the 5th Generation
In the realm of the fifth-generation Toyota Avalon, the year 2020 stands out as the pinnacle of reliability and innovation.
Toyota, having learned from previous feedback, fine-tuned the 2020 model to address any lingering discrepancies.
Best Years: 2020
Under its sleek design, the 2020 Avalon housed a potent 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 301 horsepower, harmoniously paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Alternatively, it offered a 2.5 L A25A-FKS inline-four with 207 hp and a hybrid powertrain featuring a 2.5 L 176 hp A25A-FXS I4 coupled with a 118 hp electric motor.
Consumer Reports tests demonstrated remarkable fuel efficiency, with ratings of 32 mpg for city driving and an impressive 52 mpg on the highway.
The 2020 Avalon technology is next level, featuring an advanced driver assistance tool, a cutting-edge infotainment system with seamless smartphone integration, and premium audio setups.
The inclusion of commendable safety features further solidified its position as the most reliable Avalon year in this generation.
The Normal Years: 2021, 2022
Moving to the subsequent years, 2021 and 2022, Avalons exhibited steady and reliable performance.
Toyota maintained its commitment to integrating advanced technological features, with enhancements to adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist.
Both years offered variations of the 3.5-liter V6 and a hybrid option, catering to the needs of both performance enthusiasts and environmentally conscious consumers.
The Poor Years: 2019
Within the fifth generation, the year 2019 emerges as the least reliable Avalon year; it doesn’t even come close to the robust 2020 model or even consider the 2018 model from the fourth generation.
This year garnered fame for issues related to the engine and powertrain. Owners expressed concerns about the transmission, jerk, and slip, especially at low speeds, impacting the overall driving experience.
A significant drawback was a recall issued in 2020 addressing fuel pump failures, potentially leading to engine stalling and posing considerable risks on the road.
Recommended Read: Best and Worst Toyota Camry Models
Toyota Avalon Model: Safe to Buy
We have compiled a list of years from all three generations of Toyota Avalon that are safe for you guys to buy.
Toyota Avalon Models You Should Avoid
Recommended Read: Best and Worst Years of Toyota Prius
Common Toyota Avalon Problems
Reliability Rating: According to RepairPal, the Toyota Avalon holds a reliability rating of 4 out of 5. Ranking: It ranks 3rd out of 12 full-size sedans in terms of reliability.
Transmission Issues:
- Affected Models: 1995–1998, 2000–2007, 2009, 2015 Avalon.
- Problem Description: There are many complaints about difficulty shifting correctly, especially from second to third gear at low speeds.
Sudden, unintended acceleration:
- Affected Models: 2014 Avalon.
- Problem Description: Owners reported sudden acceleration without cause, suspected to be linked to electronic issues engaging the throttle without pressing the gas pedal.
Misfiring Engine:
- Affected Models: 1995–2010, 2012 Avalon.
- Problem Description: Owners complained about misfiring engines, attributed to faulty ignition coils. Replacement costs range from $5 to $50 plus labor.
Peeling Paint:
- Affected Models: Mainly 2011 Avalon, but also reported in other models.
- Problem Description: Paint on the roof and between the windshield and sunroof would bubble up and eventually peel, reported as an unsightly issue by drivers.
Average Resale Value of Toyota Avalon
The Graph Below is based on comprehensive surveys across multiple online and offline car reselling platforms like Edmunds, truecars, cars, etc.
Note: The resell value is dependent on the milage, color, variant and overall condition of the vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reliability rating of the Toyota Avalon?
The Toyota Avalon holds a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, according to RepairPal.
How does the Toyota Avalon rank among full-size sedans in terms of reliability?
It ranks 3rd out of 12 full-size sedans for reliability.
Are there common transmission issues with the Toyota Avalon?
Some Avalon models, including 1995–1998, 2000–2007, 2009, and 2015, have experienced problems such as difficulty shifting correctly or hesitation during shifts.
Has sudden, unintended acceleration been reported in certain Avalon models?
There have been complaints, particularly from 2014 Avalon owners, about sudden acceleration without apparent cause, possibly linked to electronic issues.
Are there concerns about misfiring engines in certain Avalon models?
Owners of 1995-2010 and 2012 Avalons have reported issues with misfiring engines, often attributed to faulty ignition coils.
Is peeling paint a common issue with the Toyota Avalon?
Peeling paint has been reported as a problem, especially in the 2011 Avalon, affecting areas like the roof and between the windshield and sunroof.
How much does it cost to replace faulty ignition coils in the Avalon?
The cost of replacing faulty ignition coils in the Avalon typically ranges from $5 to $50, excluding labor charges.