Skip to main content

In 2022, Toyota silently killed off its large sedan offering in favor of the hiked-up Crown. However, the deceptively plush Toyota Avalon has been around since the 1995 model year. That means plenty of used Avalons for savvy used car shoppers. Still, buyers should be mindful of some of the common problems with a used Toyota Avalon, like EVAP system issues. 

Depending on the year, the Toyota Avalon may exhibit everything from engine issues to peeling paint

The Toyota Avalon is a gold standard of used car reliability. In fact, the Avalon is the only passenger car in the top 10 longest-lasting used vehicles, per iSeeCars. However, the top five most common issues with the Avalon include electrical system faults, sensory issues, rough operation, and leaks. Most of the following problem areas have been reported by over 100 owners.

  • Ignition coil
  • Failed oxygen sensor
  • Oil leak (valve cover gaskets)
  • Automatic transmission rough operation
  • EVAP system issues

One of the most common issues among used Toyota Avalon models is a check engine light due to a faulty ignition coil, per RepairPal. Fortunately, the average repair cost for the coil issue is less than $370. Regarding pricier fixes, owners may experience a check engine light due to a faulty oxygen sensor. But that repair still carries an average cost of around $500. 

Of course, in addition to a few of the Avalon’s most common faults, buyers should shop the right years. While most Toyota Avalon model years are relatively drama-free, a handful of the large sedan’s offerings are less-than-stellar. 

  • 2014
  • 2013
  • 2011
  • 2006
  • 2007

According to CarComplaints, the 2014 model year is the worst for the nameplate. Unfortunately for the 10-year-old Avalon, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports some vehicle speed control issues that could lead the sedan to accelerate without prompt. However, the issue is so rare that it’s caused just one recorded crash. Even the least-recommended Avalon model year earned CarComplaints’ “Seal of Pretty Good.”

Related

The 2020 Dodge Challenger SRT Super Stock Accidentally Became a Collector’s Item

Best in Sedans & Coupes
Avatar photo
Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman is a MotorBiscuit Staff Writer, an admitted petrolhead, and an avid motorcyclist. Erik covers Tesla daily, including the Model Y and Cybertruck. Erik also covers Toyota, often discussing the Tundra, Tacoma, RAV4, 4Runner, and Camry. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and Humvees. Erik is a United States Marine Corps combat veteran, former water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Texas at Austin.