2004 Toyota Avalon - Consumer Discussions

2012 - 2013 Toyota Avalon

• Toyota Avalon 2012 vs 2013

  Written by: jd21me on Feb 6, 2013 9:38:52 AM

  I have had several Avalons my first was a 2001 then 2004 which I gave to my daughter it has 100k and still going strong and a 2009. All gave excellent performance and that comfortable Avalon ride, which we had gotten used to. I waited for the new 2013's to come out with anticipation. The test drive in a 2013 Limited was disapointing that smoothness of the past cars was gone ... Read More

2011 Toyota Avalon

• Re: 12 [rotterdam6] Updates: [ncee] [_bill_wa]

  Written by: gringoviejo on Jan 9, 2013 8:40:16 AM

  Bill, I could tell stories about my 2000 XLS (upgrading tires, struts, and brakes made significant improvements), which I sold last year at around 140,000 miles, and the nearly-new 2004 ES330 I'm driving now (great car at ~40,000 miles but I'm 6'2" and not getting younger, and the interior is much less roomy), but I want to ask about *your* Avalon, since I'm in the market for one like it: 2011 ... Read More

2010 Toyota Avalon

• Re: Rear window visibility 2011 vs 2004 Avalon [number4avalon]

  Written by: tjc78 on Jan 2, 2013 6:12:19 AM

  I had an 03 than an 06 and yes that rear window isn't the best for seeing out of. You will get used to it. Except for front seat comfort the 05+ is a much better car than the 00-04. Its a shame Toyota destroyed the Avalon with the 2013. They were great cars.

2012 - 2013 Toyota Avalon

• Re: Edmunds/Inside Line is mighty impressed with the all-new Avalon! [luckyme1]

  Written by: tjc78 on Dec 14, 2012 6:48:56 AM

  as sales had been slipping every year. The sales were slipping because it was a stale model. It hadn't changed since 2005! Any model that goes that long without a major redo will have declining sales. When the 05 came out it was a huge hit. I remember reading the forums here and people were having a tough time getting the one they wanted and dealers were not lowering prices. If ... Read More

• Re: Toyotas Mid-sized hybrids: 2013 Avalon, 2013 Lexus ES 300h, 2012 Camry [fin]

  Written by: bwia on Jun 29, 2012 8:28:57 AM

  And, as I have posted before, the ONLY thing that keeps the Avalon in production is the fact it is not expensive to make along side the Camry. The 2013 Avalon needs to be a winner to reverse the sales slide of the past dozen years. The hideous grill certainly won't help matters as expressed by many in this forum. Here are the sales data for Version 2.0 and 3.0 respectively: ... Read More

2011 Toyota Avalon

• Re: Cost [twinb]

  Written by: robin5 on Jan 2, 2012 4:49:40 PM

  My 2011 Avalon Limited with Nav, remote start, 6% sales tax, delivery, etc was about $39K in MI. I was looking at the 2010 using a CostCo discount and trouble with the salesman. When CostCo contacted me to see if I was happy with the service, they apologized and said the price is (I think) $700 over dealer cost. That wasn't supposed to be applied to the 2011, but I went ... Read More

Toyota Avalon 2004 and earlier

• Toyota Avalon 2004 and earlier

  Written by: darrenston on Nov 10, 2011 1:42:33 AM

  my girl friend just got a Toyota Avalon and boy that car needs so much work to be done to it i don't know why it makes so much noise after reading your post now i know what to do and i think selling the car will be the options because its not worth fixing all those little things on it. it a used one a 2009 and for that year ... Read More

2005-2007 Toyota Avalon

• Re: Steering box on our 05 Avalon! [jlsexton]

  Written by: mark268 on May 24, 2011 12:55:53 AM

  I purchased a 2005 XLS with 83,300 miles in January, 2011 after having owned a 2004 XLS for 15 months. According to the window sticker this car was #3023 of all 2005 Avalons. Luckily, I bought it from the original dealer (previous owner has had 3 Avalons and now owns a 2011) and could access all service records at Toyota.com. A salesman still at this southern Ohio dealership still remembers my ... Read More

Toyota Avalon Suspension Questions

• Re: 2000 Avalon rear suspension issue [njavalonguy]

  Written by: 55396 on Apr 14, 2011 11:15:26 AM

  Look in 'Toyota Avalon 2004 and earlier' also. Search 55396 or ABfisch.

Toyota Avalon 2004 and earlier

• Toyota 2004 XLS

  Written by: r2b2rhiannon on Jun 9, 2010 4:36:28 PM

  My XLS 2004 Avalon has been making moaning noise when I back up and go forward. Of course, I only hear it went I am backing out of garage and driveway starting up and also if I go forward when starting up. Are leaving for a vacation in a few days and am afraid because my friends tie broke off and buckled under as she was pulling into her driveway today. ... Read More

• ronkro

  Written by: ronkro on Apr 9, 2010 10:46:20 AM

  I have a 2004 Avalon XLS. Had problem, at 20,000 miles with stiff steering and steering wheel wouldn't return to center after a turn. Diagnosis was lower steering shaft joint binding. Part was replaced. Toyota Corp. paid for part and I paid dealer for labor. I now have 35,000 miles on vehicle and the problem returned. Is anyone else having similar steering problems with their Avalon or is this an isolated ... Read More

• Directional signal problem

  Written by: edon on Apr 6, 2010 2:24:39 PM

  During the winter my 2004 Toyota Avalon directional signals and 4-way flashers stopped working on the coldest days - below freezing. After heating up they would work properly. The temperature that they stopped working has slowly gone up, so now they won't work below 70 degF. My mechanic changed the flasher relay, but that did not fix the problem. Anyone experience this problem and how did you fix it? I have ... Read More

Toyota Halts Sales of Popular Models - Accelerator Stuck Problem Recall

• Toyota Denied Sudden Acceleration Problem For More Than 5 Years

  Written by: revit on Jan 30, 2010 7:58:41 AM

  Up to you to decide, but this pretty much sums it all up...not much more to say: It appears that Toyota has denied its sudden acceleration problem for more than 5 years. Toyota's recall for floor mat problems is not the end of the story and the company needs to do more to protect its customers and the motoring public. In March 2004, the Center For Auto Safety reported about sudden ... Read More

2011 Toyota Avalon

• Re: 2011 Toyota Avalon [kenb757]

  Written by: bwia on Dec 24, 2009 4:49:00 AM

  Looks like Toyota is going to give this market to the Buick Lacrosse and Ford Taurus kenb, you are so right, take a look below at the dwindling sales year after. Add the Hyundai Genesis to this market and suddenly the Avalon is out-classed. Calendar year-- US sales 2000 --104,078 2001 --83,005 2002 --69,029 2003 --50,911 2004 --36,460 2005 --95,318 2006 --88,938 2007 --72,945 2008 --42,790

Toyota Avalon 2004 and earlier

• ideas on 2004 Toyota Avalon

  Written by: roy41 on Dec 22, 2009 10:43:06 AM

  My Toyota Avalon 2004 XLS has been remarkably trouble free. It now has 112,000 miles. Recently I had the transmission flushed and now the tranny is slipping somewhat in reverse....forward is no problem.... By the way, I was not having any issies with the transmission prior to the flush...just preventative maintenance. Is this a coincidence or are these issues related? Any ideas on what the problem could be and what it'll ... Read More

2010 Toyota Avalon

• Re: 2011 Toyota Avalon? [ncee]

  Written by: toyman2 on Dec 19, 2009 7:17:38 PM

  I'm trying to remember exactly, but Toyota published production schedules in September that showed the 2010 being built only October 2009 thru February of 2010. That's a shortened production season by about 3-4 months so that the new 2011 model could begin in earnest starting in March. Also, if I recall didn't the current model come out in March 2004 as a 2005? This timing would be consistent for Toyota. I ... Read More

2005-2007 Toyota Avalon

• Re: 2000-2004 vs 2005-2009 [55396]

  Written by: fin on Aug 31, 2009 9:05:24 PM

  As one who has owned an Avalon of each generation, let me assure you there are differences each five years. Most things improve because it's a Toyota. But not everything, depending on what you need in a car. The post from *tjc78* is very accurate. The '03 seats were a lot more comfortable on long trips than my '07 Limited seats are. But the power train, gas mileage and suspension are ... Read More

• Re: 2000-2004 vs 2005-2009 [55396]

  Written by: tjc78 on Aug 31, 2009 5:10:51 AM

  I went from an '03 XL to an '06 XLS. The extra size was't a big deal for me. If anything it was a plus. IMO the only thing that the '03 had over the '06 was the seats. They were bigger and more comfortable to me. Other than that the '06 was fantastic, more power with better MPG, slightly better handling (although still soft) and great features. Also, the Toyota ... Read More

2010 Toyota Avalon

• 2011 Toyota Avalon?

  Written by: ntassistant on Aug 9, 2009 4:13:14 PM

  Hello, I am brand new to Edmunds.com, but I'm quite familiar with the blogs and enjoy reading posts regarding most Toyota vehicles. I have always been a big fan of Toyota products. Last year, I drove (rented) a 2008 Avalon Touring. I absolutely fell in love with this car as it was the nicest handling vehicles that I had ever driven. I currently own a 2004 Corolla, so driving the Avalon ... Read More

• Love our Avalons

  Written by: lsunday on Aug 8, 2009 3:51:33 AM

  We own 2 Toyota Avalons - a 2004 XLS and a 2008 Limited. We used to own Buicks but the lack of quality killed that. Both of our Avalons are tremendous cars and are very high quality. I traded a Lexus ES 330 on the 2008 Avalon Limited due to the lack of interior room in the Lexus - especially in the rear - and a very rough transmission. I keep ... Read More

Toyota Avalon 2008-2010

• Re: Clicking / Grinding noise in front end? [wwest]

  Written by: amauhry on Feb 10, 2009 9:08:20 AM

  "Almost all, if not all, automatic transaxles will release the lock up clutch the INSTANT you apply any level of braking as otherwise the "solid" engine/gearbox coupling might result in stalling the engine. And.. you are right but for the wrong reasons." Don’t go so fast my friend. I’m talking about a specific design, that of the U660E transaxle found in my car You are, however, talking in general, which it ... Read More

Toyota Avalon Starting Difficulties

• 1998 Toyota Avalon starter caused a fire

  Written by: WhiteAv on Dec 13, 2008 2:41:00 AM

  Well, after having a week or two of intermittent starting issues, (i.e. . 1. turn key nothing happens, turn key second time car starts; 2. turned key car started, driving down street spinning sound coming from under hood but went away after a couple of minutes). Wife started the car at work yesterday and the car went up in smoke within a minute or so after it started. It appears right ... Read More

2010 Toyota Avalon

• Re: Avalon Replacement? [rpfingsten]

  Written by: geo123 on Nov 7, 2008 12:12:24 PM

  I got the same reaction at my local dealership. However, if the past is any indication, the 2009 model should be the last year for this generation of the Toyota Avalon. The first generation was from 1995 through 1999, the second generation from 2000 through 2004, and now the third generation from 2005 through 2009. I believe we will see something new for the fourth generation in 2010. I am wondering ... Read More

Toyota Avalon Limited vs Lexus ES 350

• Re: Premium Fuel Lexus Doublespeak [praz]

  Written by: captain2 on Sep 24, 2008 1:35:44 PM

  I also don't think that the engine used in Rav4/Highlander/Venza/Camry/Avalon/ES/RX are different. not only that but Toyota planned it that way. Back in 2004 Toyota was 'saddled' with a perfectly good group of V6s (despite 'sludging') that were short about 50hp. So they spent literally hundreds of millions to develop the 2GR series actually from the existing 4 liter truck engine and put it first in the 05 Avalon. Turned out ... Read More

2005-2007 Toyota Avalon

• Re: Has Toyota improved the quality of Avalons since 06? [wwest]

  Written by: 9119911 on Jun 30, 2008 7:21:10 PM

  The Lexus was a 2005 RX330, same hesitation the Avalon had (intermittant hesitation) The dealer complied with the stated TSP and I never had anymore problems, if it's SOP, strange the TSP remidied my problem. I have since sold the 330 and bought a Caddy CTS 2008 model, a far better ride. Lexus had a crossover with their RX up through 2003, but, 2004 and up rides like a truck...and basically ... Read More

Older Toyota Avalon (pre-2000) Maintenance and Repair

• Re: 2000 Avalon XLS P0420 - Catalytic converter issues [njavalonguy]

  Written by: pat on Mar 19, 2008 10:55:37 AM

  It's not unusual for a single question hanging out in a discussion all by itself to be missed. You might try reposting in the Toyota Avalon 2004 and earlier discussion. If no one there can help, you could also try either the Ask The Community feature on the right side of the page or the Quick Technical Questions discussion which is over on the Maintenance & Repair board. It's usually better ... Read More

Mainstream Large Sedans Comparison

• Re: Azera [allmet33]

  Written by: thegraduate on Dec 20, 2007 11:55:20 AM

  First of all, I thought you said you were technically competent! Okay, now I see YOUR problem, Louis...YOU DON'T READ!!! Go back and look at my postings. I said a 2006 Acura TL, not a 2004. For your info, there was a huge change as the 2004 was packing 270 hp under the hood and the 2006 TL only has 258 hp. However, as the Captain pointed out...the 2006 TL has ... Read More

Toyota Avalon Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers

• Avalon Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers2005+

  Written by: don90 on Dec 7, 2007 3:50:08 PM

  Does your Avalon LTD rain sensing wipers make one swipe across your dry windshield when you hit the start button on a dry day when your wiper is set for auto?? Will if your dealer says this is normal he is wrong, report this to Customer Experiance at 800 331 4331 and ask to talk to Eileen Torres (Case Manager). Toyota Avalon's XLS fron 2000 to 2004 with rain sensing wipers ... Read More

Mainstream Large Sedans Comparison

• Re: Engine and Transmission Problems [tjc78]

  Written by: captain2 on Nov 29, 2007 12:43:12 PM

  yep, there seems to be a lot of misinformed folks out there with long memories, but no facts relevant to what Toyota has been doing since December of 2004 (the 2GR) - at least as far as the Avalon is concerned. It must be acknowledged however, that Toyota did mishandle the whole 'sludge' issue in those old 3.0s and 3.3s back in the late 90s/early 00s - wasn't aware that the ... Read More

Hyundai Azera vs Toyota Avalon vs Ford Taurus vs Chevrolet Impala

• Re: Back on topic [dfwfrank]

  Written by: captain2 on Nov 2, 2007 12:02:30 PM

  been Toyota owners for 18 years, the last 6 in Avalons and later Reliability, well needed a new trany in the first Avalon within a month, took both in for rattles, squeeks, and noise behind dash. At 15000 miles maintenance told that transmission fluid needed replacement because it was burned Curious then - if you had so much trouble with your older (2004 and earlier) Avalons why on earth would you ... Read More

• Back on topic

  Written by: dfwfrank on Nov 1, 2007 4:55:17 PM

  We have been Toyota owners for 18 years, the last 6 in Avalons. Wife and I, she is the main driver of this car, just did not like the exterior of current Avalons when compared to our 2004. We also felt that the Avalon's interiors had been cheapened. More plastic, seats just did not seem as plush, the dash space to windshield is huge, the funky door to the radio/CD. Trunk ... Read More

2005-2007 Toyota Avalon

• Re: Avy TV Advertisements [mackabee]

  Written by: captain2 on Oct 31, 2007 2:31:53 PM

  thanks for the link - seem to remember that the Avalon was selling at a 'paltry' 3000 units/month back in its lame duck year 2004. Then the new one comes out, Toyota finally has a 'fast' sedan, and 'zap' sales exploded to more like 10,000 per month, the reason why the Avalon was in very short supply thru the summer of 2005. You Toyota guys must have been in hog heaven ... Read More

Mainstream Large Sedans Comparison

• Re: Why purchase a Kia Amanti [imidazol97]

  Written by: captain2 on Oct 29, 2007 6:32:40 AM

  Wrong - kind of. Remember that the Avalon preceeded the Camry by 2 years and was the first of the 2GR engine (in the entire Toyota/Lexus line), and rides on a longer wheelbase than either the Camry or the ES which do ride on identical chassis. The 05+ Avalon was totally new and shares nothing with an 04 Camry - if anything the 07 Camry owes its (downsized) existence to the ... Read More

• 2008 Avalon vs Detroit

  Written by: burl on Sep 13, 2007 9:49:54 AM

  Hi folks I sold cars for 30+ years (Chrysler & Toyota). Detroit deserves what it is getting and are going BROKE or have already been BROKE . They have shown no interest or ability to compete in the past 20 years of watching their Market share go to almost nothing (GM I believe was about 48% at high now 28% .... #'s may not be exact but at least in the ... Read More

2005-2007 Toyota Avalon

• Re: 08 Avalon plood [bobwiley]

  Written by: ctl on Aug 20, 2007 4:00:00 PM

  It is a well documented scenario that the recent Toyota DBW software would intentionally delay the engagement of tranny - to avoid excessive wear on drive shaft as reported on early Lexus RX. Technically, it is unlike, e.g., the recent MBZ 7-gear tranny issue or 1999-2004 Honda tranny where the tranny hardware actually failed. To the average consumers, that shows up as "problematic" and "quirky". All is true. Maybe Toyota should ... Read More

Toyota Avalon 2008-2010

• Some posts have been moved

  Written by: pat on Aug 13, 2007 6:42:37 AM

  Here's the link: burl, "Toyota Avalon 2004 and earlier" #3427, 24 Jul 2007 11:33 am

Mainstream Large Sedans Comparison

• Re: Azera is better [alexstore]

  Written by: captain2 on Aug 9, 2007 2:21:17 PM

  its not my age car an unfortunate perception that the Avalon has going back to the days (2004 and earlier) when they really were luxed out (and certainly very tame) Camrys. As an owner/former owner of 4 VQ engined Nissans, it was the G35, the Maxima, and the TL that topped my shopping list a coupla years back - if anybody would have told me that I would end up in ... Read More

Toyota Avalon Basic Maintenance Questions

• Cabin Filter for Heater/Air Conditioned Air

  Written by: schaffner on May 7, 2007 6:52:57 PM

  Have a Toyota 2004 Avalon and am stumped on trying to get the glove box to drop out of the way so that I can change the filter located behind the box. Any suggestions would be appreciated

Mainstream Large Sedans Comparison

• Re: You forgot... [imidazol97]

  Written by: captain2 on Apr 6, 2007 8:11:35 AM

  the Avalon when it first came out really was (and still is to some degree) about the only Toyota product that could even be halfway construed as having at least some of the characteristics of a 'sports sedan', it is THAT quick. And improved FE over the old Camry based 200 hp model. Sales of the 2004 were plugging along at about 3-4000/month, the 05 hit the ground running at closer ... Read More

Best Vehicles for Taller Larger Drivers

• Re: New to this... [daisyvarga]

  Written by: jobiek on Apr 5, 2007 3:04:59 PM

  I can help. I am 6'-6" My inseam is 36 inches. I tried out virtually car at the Minneapolis, MN Auto Show. These are the new cars I fit in. When I say fit in I mean comfortably and could drive a long distance. 1. 2007 Toyota Avalon 2. 2007 Nissan Altima 3. 2007 VW Passat 4. 2007 VW Jetta including the GLI 5. 2007 VW GTI 6. 2007 VW EOS ... Read More

Mainstream Large Sedans Comparison

• Re: any difference between chinese and Korean cars? [tjc78]

  Written by: captain2 on Mar 30, 2007 7:57:36 AM

  how about this - Toyota has 2 sedans in 2004, that are essentially identical, both with 200hp V6s, one of which is called the Avalon is the 'flagship' and is slugging along at 3000 sales/ month, the other is called a Camry and it is the best selling car in the US, at more than 30000/month despite being 'limited' power wise. Toyota already had this new engine designed (obviously a solid ... Read More

• Re: Limited price ..........so what? [allmet33]

  Written by: captain2 on Mar 9, 2007 9:56:15 AM

  and sales of the 2004 'boring' model were hanging in there at about 3000 cars/month, the 05 model hit the skids at closer to 8000 units almost immediately - and not commercial one. Kind of what happened to me, had no idea that Toyota was completely redoing the Avalon and was really considering the G35 and TL. By chance, happened by a Toyota dealer and saw a strange looking vehicle on ... Read More

Toyota Avalon Rattles and Noises

• Re: dash rattle [gpciii]

  Written by: leanman on Feb 3, 2007 1:55:07 PM

  gpciii, Re: My Message #22 and yours #23. I now have about 600 miles on the new moonroof, 300+ of which the dealer put on, with nearly 300 by me. The infamous cold weather rattle is gone for now (and hopefully forever.). Even though my car is a 2004 Solara, the symptoms have been identical to those reported for some Avalons, which supports the idea that the moonroofs are at least ... Read More

Toyota Avalon Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Toyota Avalon,how much did you pay? [googlestars]

  Written by: bushman26 on Nov 13, 2006 6:39:09 PM

  Purchased a 2000 from Car Max in 2004 with 11K. Paid 20K Have driven it 34K and it still feels new.

Toyota Avalon Navigation System

• Re: Limited test [bobwiley]

  Written by: larrymit on Aug 15, 2006 11:36:50 AM

  No arguments here. My point is basically: Try before you buy. See if you like the system before putting out the money. Some like the looks and convenience of a built-in system, even if it is a little less capable than an add-on system you have to stick to the windshield. (A recent issue of Consumer Reports tested navigation systems. While cheaper than OEM systems, they had drawbacks and few had ... Read More

2005-2007 Toyota Avalon

• Toyota could delay new models

  Written by: niteone on Aug 25, 2006 4:35:06 AM

  http://money.cnn.com/2006/08/25/news/international/bc.autos.japan.toyota.reut/in- dex.htm?cnn=yes Report: Recalls and quality issues may slow rollout by as much as six months. August 25 2006: 6:08 AM EDT TOKYO (Reuters) -- Toyota Motor Corp., Japan's biggest auto maker, is considering delaying the introduction of some new models by as much as half a year amid a series of recalls and quality problems, the Wall Street Journal said Friday, citing people familiar with the matter. Toyota, which has ... Read More

Toyota Avalon 2004 and earlier

• Re: Shocks Bushing [55396]

  Written by: abfisch on Aug 22, 2006 8:50:26 AM

  55396: You will notice quite the difference with the KYB GR2's, big bang for the buck. I am genuinely interested in your comments once you get the car back. Again, I do not think Toyota makes a 17mm front sway bar bushing, as they are 18 or 19mm. Mine was 18mm (XL) and besides being a pain to get at, it fit perfect. As long as you genorously clean and grease ... Read More

Toyota Avalon 2005+ Transmission Questions

• lagging toyota reputation\reliability\quality

  Written by: bailboy on Aug 15, 2006 10:36:24 AM

  In order for me to absolutely avoid any hesitation with the throttle...I have to slllooowwwlly step on the gas until it "catches" to make a smooth start sometimes. So yeah. I can change my driving habit as far as that's concerned. However, when you need to be a little more than just ever so gently applying gas, that’s when it hesitates and or lurches. That however is a different issue than ... Read More

2005-2007 Toyota Avalon

• Re: USELESS ACCESSORY [gartmacd]

  Written by: madmancd on Aug 5, 2006 1:17:58 PM

  I have been monitoring this forum ever since we purchased our 2005 Avalon (Limited)in February 2005. We had previously owned a Lincoln LS which was a complete and total disaster. I am happy to say that we have 14K miles on the Avalon and have been very pleased with the car thus far. Unlike some of the people who have posted, our experience with the laser guided cruise has been good ... Read More

• Re: Love my Avalon [gartmacd]

  Written by: bobwiley on Jul 27, 2006 8:14:39 AM

  Folks: I bought the Avalon Limited (1st Toyota) based upon reviews and knowledge that Toyota was noted for quality and longevity. I didn't know about this Forum or I certainly would have read the responses. To be fair, I've had 3 friends drive my Limited--one has a 98 Camry with over 165K on it--trouble free, another has a 2005 LaCrosse and the other a 2004 Suburban. I never told them about ... Read More

Avalon Electronics

• Toyota Avalon Defective GPS Page 4

  Written by: thegadgetguru on Jul 10, 2006 10:36:27 AM

  As stated, Toyota has an alliance with XM radio. However, the dealership I purchased this vehicle from is owned by (what I learned) a Roger Pensky (yes, the racing legend) and I was told he is a major stockholder in Sirius. While they offered both XM and Sirius as options, it made sense that his dealerships were pushing Sirius were offering it for free (although the monthly service charges were not ... Read More

• Re: "defective GPS" [oilcan2]

  Written by: thegadgetguru on Jul 8, 2006 7:55:00 PM

  Oilcan2, When the problems became apparant on the drive home from the dealership, and I immediately notified the General Sales Manager, we made a deal. I would put the absolute minimum miles on the car until they figured out the fix. (I have multiple cars so this seemed fair). In turn, he would hold my car until the final decision was made. I was originally led to believe it would be ... Read More

Toyota Avalon Quality Control Issues

• 2005 Avalon Mistakes

  Written by: cc48 on May 26, 2006 4:03:40 PM

  After reading several peoples accounts of their problems with their 2005/6 Avalon in the Long Island Newsday, I decided to write and add my protest and my thoughts. This is my third Toyota and this is my second Avalon. My first Avalon was a 2001 XLS and I thought it was perfect. I compared it to a Lexus LS400 which was my previous car before I bought the 2001 Avalon XLS. ... Read More

2005-2007 Toyota Avalon

• Re: Taking delivery soon [oregon]

  Written by: dandydon2 on May 24, 2006 10:26:33 PM

  Hi Oregon, You are right. I drove my new blue mirage Limited home today and it is OUTSTANDING! The side molding was installed by the port dealer people, who did a perfect job. The color match is exact and the strip looks just right. I'm a car guy and like to change cars every two years, so I sold my 2004 ES 330 with 20K miles, but wanted to stay in ... Read More

• Re: Toyota's Response [captain2]

  Written by: tjc78 on May 17, 2006 4:10:56 AM

  No doubt I have said before the new 3.5 is definetly louder than the 3.0 in earlier Avalons. However, the 3.0L in the 2000 - 2004 Avalons was VVT.

• Decision

  Written by: dandydon2 on May 15, 2006 12:22:29 PM

  I'm due to take delivery of a Limited sometime this week and I'm a little nervous about it. The alternative for me would be an ES350 at an increased cost of $5,000. But I'm going to stick with my Avalon decision and hope I join the ranks of all you who have trouble-free cars. My 2004 ES 330 is my first Toyota product and has been bullet proof, so I expected ... Read More

• Re: Quality Article today [captain2]

  Written by: joe369 on May 1, 2006 12:45:46 PM

  Here is the article LOS ANGELES -- Alan Seider has owned 11 Toyotas since 1982, but his 2006 Avalon likely will be his last. He says quality glitches have bedeviled his Toyota sedan, which he has driven less than 6,000 miles since he bought it last July. His dealer could not solve the car's problems. Toyota headquarters stonewalled his appeals, he says. "There have been significant throttle control and transmission hesitation ... Read More

Toyota Avalon 2004 and earlier

• 2004 and Earlier Avalon Fuel Filters

  Written by: fin on Mar 27, 2006 7:56:53 PM

  Here is some edited copy from a parts house website. I was looking for something else and found it. *abfisch* has it right: On cars with fuel injection, most manufacturers only recommend replacing the filter after the first 100,000 mile. However, most Toyota service professionals believe its best to replace the fuel filter every two years or 24,000 miles. A contaminated Toyota filter will put undue pressure on the electric fuel ... Read More

2005-2007 Toyota Avalon

• Re: Transmission Shutter [alan_s]

  Written by: tinatina on Mar 19, 2006 6:32:48 AM

  Thanks for your comments on the Avalon. I was interested in the XL, but now I'm not purchasing it due to the tranny issue. It has become more and more of a concern here on this thread. The prices have really come down on the 2006s, I can get an XL for $24,400 plus ttl. I guess its due in part to the new Camry. I have to agree with you ... Read More

• Re: Impression of 2007 Camry vs. Avalon [fragmire]

  Written by: captain2 on Mar 10, 2006 1:05:12 PM

  There is certainly a feature difference XLE vs. Ltd., but, also about 7 grand. Same can be said for the Touring vs. SE although not that much. What I think sells the Camry is that it does have the same drivetrain and similar performance, even though it is smaller. Same 'problem' Toyota had in 2004.

Toyota Avalon Owners: Meet the Members

• Many Cars I've bought

  Written by: bbraddock on Jul 26, 2005 8:18:59 AM

  In august 2004 I bought a '04 Nissan Maxima, nice car, traded it in for a 2005 Chrylser C Hemi in May of '05. Yesterday I bought a Toyota Avalon XLS. Reason, the Hemi went through gas like crazy, and frankly I'm a believer it's headed to $3 a gallon before it gets to $2. In purchasing the Avalon, I figure I can get 150 miles per tank full more bang ... Read More

Toyota Avalon Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• 2006 Avalon Price

  Written by: luckytx on Feb 3, 2006 4:43:27 PM

  This answers a lot of previous posts. I emailed 22 dealers in mid-Texas, NE Oklahoma, Eastern Arkansas, SW and mid-west Missouri and mid-east Kansas telling them exactly what I wanted. A 2006 Black with Ivory interior, Avalon Limited, with only trunk and floor mats, XM radio, and Vehicle Stability. I sent the emails a couple of days before Thanksgiving. I told them that I was in no hurry since I was ... Read More

2005-2007 Toyota Avalon

• Re: Toyota: Hyundai is a real threat in U.S. [3puttmax]

  Written by: tinydog1 on Jan 21, 2006 12:31:52 PM

  I purchased the Hyundai Azera Limited/w Ultimate package. I also own a 2004 XG350L and have had no issues with it in 2 years and 26k of ownership. Also the Avalon I test drove had a rattle, that would have driven me insane after a while, especially on a new car.

• Avalon beats 2005 estimates

  Written by: just__me on Jan 9, 2006 5:57:30 PM

  Toyota Sales For 2005 Avalon 2005 - 95,318, 2004 - 36,460 http://theautochannel.com/news/2006/01/04/205039.html

• Re: 2006 AVALON XM RADIO [liners]

  Written by: 06graylimited on Dec 18, 2005 8:55:07 AM

  I had a 2004 Camry that I put after market XM radio in. I first mounted the antenna on the roof right above the rear window, then with some reception problems moved it to the leading edge of the trunk lid right by the center stop light. This was a lot better but not as good as I had hoped. I bought an 06 limited in October. It did not come ... Read More

• Re: Transmission problem or not? [garagedude]

  Written by: pat on Dec 17, 2005 8:14:39 AM

  Hi garagedude, welcome! Please repost your message in the Toyota Avalon 2004 and earlier discussion since that is the one that covers your vehicle. I wish I could move it there for you, but our Move function seems to be on a holiday break lately. ;)

Toyota Avalon Owners: Meet the Members

• Re: 2006 Avalon XLS - and I LOVE IT! [jbossmin]

  Written by: octim on Dec 16, 2005 12:58:45 PM

  I am a new Avalon owner...bought a used 2004 Avalon XLS with traction and Navigation system with all the bells and whistles. A salesman had put 80K on it of freeway miles, so I got it for 17,500 at Auction, about 4 grand below blue book. Its the nicest car I have ever had. I am so impressed with the quality and fit and finish. It rides well, has all the ... Read More

2005-2007 Toyota Avalon

• Re: great HP 'controversy' resolved [captain2]

  Written by: ange on Dec 5, 2005 10:51:21 AM

  I would like to beat a dead horse one more time re the avalon HP rating.The car does have a lot of power,I don't deny that. I can chirp the front wheels at will. I have no complaints about a good powerfull running car. My comment is when you buy a dosen eggs and you open the carton and you find 10, this is not amusing. The same thing about advertising ... Read More

• Re: Stonewalled re Navi system [n0v8or]

  Written by: larrymit on Nov 10, 2005 12:44:14 PM

  You're correct is saying that mapping programs use some sort of formula to estimate the location of a street address. Not only do NAV systems work that way, so do programs like Microsoft's Streets & Trips. The best they can do is get you close to the actual address. That being said, you shouldn't be shown to be on a street other than the one you are really on. When I ... Read More

• Toyota Sales for October 2005.

  Written by: just__me on Nov 2, 2005 6:58:27 AM

  http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2005/11/01/147202.html HELLO TO ALL MY OLD FRIENDS HERE. 78,195 Avalons sold to date (compared to 31,315 for all of 2004). When November sales are reported, Toyota will have hit their estimated 85 thousand plus sales for the year and that was without having any sales in January because of it's late introduction. I feel sorry for those that do have some problems with their new Avalon, but the sales tell another ... Read More

• THE AVALON HORSEPOWER ISSUE

  Written by: ange on Oct 21, 2005 9:15:39 AM

  Found an interesting article in 2005 road and track magazine re the HP story.This was written by Dennis Simanaitis,Engineering Editor The HP Race Gets Muddied Changes to SAE Standard J1349, Engine Power Test Code--Spark Ignition and Compression Ignition--Net Power Rating,close off some loopholes and establish something called SAE Certified Hosepower. In the near term, though,this is likely to muddy the the running of the horsepower race. SAE Certified Horespower is the ... Read More

Toyota Avalon Tires and Wheels

• Re: 2000 Avalon Front End Problem [fin]

  Written by: abfisch on Oct 20, 2005 10:04:11 AM

  uhhh Fin: Man, I usually agree with you, but I have to take a slightly different edge on your post. I don't think it is a design problem at all. The parts, control arms, dampers, etc. are from the Toyota parts bin, with a little shuffling around. I think the problems more lie in the quality( I know other will have a cow!) of the parts used as OEM for Toyota. ... Read More

2005-2007 Toyota Avalon

• Toyota Avalon Sales for Sept and total so far for 05 compared to 04

  Written by: just__me on Oct 4, 2005 6:26:14 PM

  It sure looks like it will hit the 85,000 sales they estimated for 05, which is more than double last years sales for the Avalon. TOYOTA RETAIL SALES (INCLUDES FLEET & HAWAII) September, 2005 -- CURRENT MONTH -- -- CALENDAR YEAR TO DATE -- DSR % DSR % 2005 2004 CHG 2005 2004 CHG AVALON 8,707 2,348 270.8 70,120 28,678 145.6

• Re: Navi System Avalon 06 [lbs1]

  Written by: larrymit on Oct 3, 2005 8:46:19 AM

  I can't speak for the Avalon navi system, but my 2004 Solara has a navi system that works well. A few months after purchase I received a recall notice from Toyota which said they weren't happy with the accuracy of the navi system in the Solara. They sent me to the Toyota dealer for installation of new software (a new DVD, I assume) which fixed a couple of minor glitches in ... Read More

Acura TL vs. Toyota Avalon

• My thoughts

  Written by: jt7 on Sep 29, 2005 12:37:50 PM

  Have enjoyed reading the heated debates and will cautiously add my 2 bits worth. 1. Have owned a 2003 Acura TL Type-S Navi (rear ended sold) 2. Have owned a 2004 Acura TL A spec (sold) 3. Own a 2005 Toyota Avalon Ltd. All were fun cars with different personalities- but all were compromises and none are perfect. Bottom line on the Avalon- quick, comfy, and solid build. Bottom line on ... Read More

2005-2007 Toyota Avalon

• Re: Drifts to the right. [squatos]

  Written by: n0v8or on Sep 13, 2005 5:15:51 PM

  Ask your dealer to check Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) ST002004, dated Feb 2, 2004, for corrective procedures. It only lists the Solara and Camry as applicable 2005 models, but the Toyota Tech training web site indicates it applies to 2004 and 2005 Avalon as well.

Acura TL vs. Toyota Avalon

• Re: why I didn't buy a TL [captain2]

  Written by: delmar1 on Sep 7, 2005 7:15:34 AM

  I am not dismissing the Avalon...and I honor your decision to purchase one. I always say that one should purchase a car based upon needs and desires and I am sure you made the correct decision. The main purpose of my post to clearify a few comments made. To reiterate...the transmission issue which you indicated is from a preexisting model (current version of the TL originated in 2004...you pointed to a ... Read More

2005-2007 Toyota Avalon

• Re: Article: Toyota caught inflating Horsepower numbers forced to come clea

  Written by: osage3 on Aug 20, 2005 7:48:56 PM

  Go to Nissan's website and look at the specs for 2006 Max. You might want to inform yourself before making your argument against Toyota's fudge on horsepower. Perhaps all of the car companies did this, only time will tell. I bought a 2004 Max SL [before the new Avalon came out] and regretted the purchase almost immediately. The car had an intermittant steering wheel tremer [some call it a shimmy] which ... Read More

Acura TL vs. Toyota Avalon

• TL looks great

  Written by: frisconick on Jun 5, 2005 9:48:08 AM

  Acura hit a home run in 2004 with the TL new looks, however they really dropped the ball with the RL, it looks exactly like an Accord. Regarding a TL vs Avalon comparison is strange IMO. But I was considering an Avalon because it's a lot car for the money and my past experience with Toyota was so positive - ultimate reliability. Bottom line is that a new silver TL is ... Read More

2005-2007 Toyota Avalon

• 2006 Avalon on the way!

  Written by: mstem on Jul 30, 2005 4:39:56 PM

  Hello Friends! I have been a lurker on this Forum Board for many months. I just registered and hope to now be a regular contributor. Bit of background: in December of 2003, after also many months reading the Toyota 4-Runner Board I took delivery of a 2004 4-Runner Limited, all options except NAV. It has proven to be an absolutely fantastic vehicle and I learned a lot from the frequent posts ... Read More

• Re: Just Took Delivery [fragmire]

  Written by: fragmire on Jul 28, 2005 9:44:20 AM

  Another thing I noticed is the trunk release. When the button is pressed from the driver seat, the trunk comes up quite a bit, blocking pretty much the entire rear window. In comparison, the 2001 ~ 2004 Avalon trunk lid only comes up about half an inch. I think this is a design flaw and a potential safety hazard, especially since the trunk release button is very close to the rear ... Read More

• Avalon and Lexus in Canada

  Written by: fin on Jul 27, 2005 4:19:39 PM

  Found this by accident on a web site. Is it true, you from the Great North Woods? In the 2004 model year Toyota sold about 35,000 Avalons...but less than 200 of that number were in Canada. Possible? Or a mistake. Seems like it would be much higher, Canadians are not poor and enjoy good cars. A Lexus LS430 selling for about $60k (US) here in Georgia sells for $100k (Canadian) in ... Read More

• Toyota Product Originations [tinatina]

  Written by: greenbelt on Jul 26, 2005 12:42:19 PM

  Here's some data from Toyota re productioin. All available at: http://www.toyota.com/about/operations/manufacturing/index.html Note that the Lexus RX330 engine and transmission are both made at the Toyota plant in West Virginia. Not everyone is aware of the big role the WVA plant plays for Toyota. See below. I didn't list the Toyota Bodine facilities in St. Louis, but that's where the engine blocks and cylinder heads are made. Also note that in 2004 ... Read More

• Actual June sales and total for year

  Written by: just__me on Jul 5, 2005 5:20:06 PM

  Toyota sold three times as many Avalons in June 05 to June 04 AVALONS sold in June, 2005 - 9,134..... 2004 - 3,102 183.1% improvement in 05 for June, and 115.76% for the year so far. So Far 42,961 2005's Avalons sold through end of June. 20,050 sold in 04

• Re: 2000 Avalon XLS [udwo]

  Written by: pat on Jun 27, 2005 10:00:38 AM

  Hi - rwb has given you some good advice. The place to pursue this is in our Toyota Avalon 2004 and earlier discussion. I think that's what rwb meant when he said this isn't the right "website" - this discussion is for the 2005 Avalon. Hope this helps.

Toyota Avalon 2004 and earlier

• 2000 Avalon compares well with new

  Written by: bobez on Jun 24, 2005 5:00:31 PM

  I have a 2000 Avalon XL and am looking to upgrade. I like my Avalon, it is quiet, smooth, and has acceptable acceleration but I have been thinking of getting a more sporty styled sedan. I have driven an assortment of cars in order to determine what would be acceptable for me and my family: 2006 Mercedes S350 2005 Mercedes E500 2006 BMW 325i, 530i, 530xi 2005 Acura TL 2004 Lexus ... Read More

• Re: 2003 Avalon - Tires and Rotors [kkovak]

  Written by: fin on Jun 9, 2005 7:27:18 PM

  Rather than a lengthy post, let me "second" the post #3058 above. Original front brake pads, rotors and even the whole front suspension are all a little weak on the 2004 and prior Avalons. The original front pads on my 2003 XL went about 30k with mostly suburban and interstate driving. The second set of pads, from Toyota, have gone 24k already and look like almost new. The rotors are fine. ... Read More

2005-2007 Toyota Avalon

• Some messages have been removed

  Written by: pat on Jun 7, 2005 8:44:36 AM

  If anyone has any suggestions for preinhartsen, please reply to the post at this link - preinhartsen, "Toyota Avalon 2004 and earlier" #3049, 7 Jun 2005 9:41 am - thanks!

• Re: Drift problem, cars pulls right after you let go for 3 secs. [jackstacker]

  Written by: avalonowner on Jun 3, 2005 2:59:10 AM

  My Avalon Touring will drift to the next lane to the right if I let go the steering wheel for ~5s. Even with my left hand on the steering wheel, I crossed to the right lane a couple of time while adjusting the climate control (not all buttons are replicated on the steering wheel, so I had to take my eyes off the road for a few seconds to change mode, ... Read More

Toyota Avalon Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Post 276-Toyoguard

  Written by: mikem30 on May 29, 2005 4:46:17 AM

  A follow up comment to the post about Toyoguard. The S.E. Toyota Distributor puts this on most of its vehicles. I was told that since this is added at the port, it can be avoided if you do internet ordering and select a vehicle before Toyoguard is added and the vehicle shipped. Using this information, I have ordered a 2003 and 2004 Avalon without it. This was in central Florida. If ... Read More

2005-2007 Toyota Avalon

• greenbelt, that's your take

  Written by: just__me on May 27, 2005 6:27:57 AM

  greenbelt,"We've decided to pass. For the Buick crowd any Avvy is a step up, but for the 2000-2004 Avvy owners, the new 2005 has way too many minuses to overcome a few pluses". This is the best of the Avalons I've owned before and although unlike you I won't speak for everyone else I'm sure out of the 9,200 buyers in the month of April and the 24 thousand plus from ... Read More

• Re: Leather Seats [lnt] We AGREE New seats and interior are a step backward

  Written by: avalonbob on May 27, 2005 5:45:08 AM

  Original poster: The controls are on the wheel because it's safer to have two hands on the wheel as much of your driving time as possible. Your response: Right. And where's the built-in cell phone? And what do you look at to figure out what Mode you are in? I agree 100% with the original poster on this. I would never have another car without steering wheel controls. They are very ... Read More

• Re: Leather Seats [lnt] We AGREE New seats and interior are a step backward

  Written by: greenbelt on May 27, 2005 4:53:55 AM

  "The controls are on the wheel because it's safer to have two hands on the wheel as much of your driving time as possible." Right. And where's the built-in cell phone? And what do you look at to figure out what Mode you are in? As absfisch said, Toyota's track record with new models is spotty (by their own standard of what they can do down the road a year or ... Read More

• Re: Interior Selection [fall]

  Written by: pmcb48 on May 24, 2005 7:56:48 AM

  In 2004, when I bought my Toyota Sienna, I noticed there was a lack of standardization of color names, both interior and exterior, across the various Toyota automobiles. A few had color names in common, like Desert Sand Mica, but others would have a similar gold color with a different name. It wasn't clear to me whether it was the identical paint with a different name, or a similar but in ... Read More

• Re: avalon [avalonfan522]

  Written by: mikes. on May 12, 2005 7:24:39 AM

  "does anyone have the new 2005 avalon? I am thinking about buying one but im trying to figure out if people enjoy it. I was thinking about buying the Limited w/nav." Nick, you're kidding us, Right??? This forum has well over 5,000 posts about this car. From when it was still speculation back in 2004 to today. Yes, many of us have bought the 05 in various models, trims and colors. ... Read More

• Re: Wish someone could tell me what is wrong... [avalonkitten]

  Written by: kinzua on May 10, 2005 1:39:12 PM

  Avalonkitten, Know the frustration you are going through. After reading your post we arranged for another test drive at our Toyota dealer. We had previously driven a Touring model and it was that test drive that hooked us into trading a perfectly running 2000 XLS for a Limited. Today I drove the limited and I must say it ran flawlessly. From full stops or accelerating from 10-20 mph the transmission was ... Read More

• Re: To hesitate or not hesitate [motownusa]

  Written by: future1 on May 9, 2005 9:02:05 PM

  "The fact is the overwhelming majority of Toyota/Lexus owners are very happy with their cars." Well, I am a 2005 ES330 owner, and I am happy, as long as I am not accelerating from a stop. :D Incidentally, Toyota recently released a new Technical Service Bulletin that addresses transmission hesitation issues in 2004-2005 Lexus ES330 (which uses the same-coded transmission as 2005 Avalon). I would not be surprised if this TSB ... Read More

• Opinions on 05/06 Toyota Avalon vs. any Lexus RX330

  Written by: cmptrguy74 on Apr 23, 2005 4:34:57 PM

  Congrats to all 2005 Avalon owners. I've ready nearly every single message posted on this thread over last few weeks. I'm STRONGLY considering ordering a new Avalon (Blizzard Pearl Limited w/Graphite & Dark Wood, all options except possibly remote start) by end of year. Currently, I own a 2002 Nissan Maxima SE w/all options (including Navigation) and am wanting a new, modern vehicle with smoother engine & ride quality. I briefly ... Read More

• Avalon Remote start system

  Written by: ejmann on Apr 21, 2005 9:55:48 AM

  Last week I finally got my new Avalon. It's a great car in most ways. BUT since I was the first to order one with the remote start system the sales people knew little about it's performance. Having an aftermarket system on a 2004 Toyota that works great I assumed the unit offered from the factory would be as good. WRONG! It lacks range, only 50-80ft, so it won't start the ... Read More