2004 Toyota Avalon

The 2004 Toyota Avalon is a full-size sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability. The 2004 Avalon was only offered with a 3.5L 24-Valve V6 with VVT-i engine producing 210 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Avalon for its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and fuel efficiency for its class. Some common dislikes include its somewhat bland styling and handling that prioritizes comfort over sportiness.

Engine

3.5L 24-Valve V6 with VVT-i

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various areas, including the valve cover gaskets, timing chain cover, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket onto the exhaust manifold, creating a burning oil smell. Visible oil residue around the valve cover.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-speed Automatic

• Delayed or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission hesitates before shifting, or shifts feel rough and jerky. May be more noticeable when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Could be caused by low transmission fluid, a faulty shift solenoid, or internal transmission damage. A transmission flush and filter change might help, but internal damage will require more extensive repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (flush) - $3000+ (replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during turns, uneven tire wear, and clunking noises from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn struts or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per axle.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front or rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replacing the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per pair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and potential failure to pass emissions testing.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty oxygen sensor. There are typically multiple oxygen sensors (upstream and downstream).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery light on the dashboard, difficulty starting the car, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power Mirror Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power mirrors will not adjust.
  • Solution: Replacing the power mirror assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per mirror.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation Screen Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen may become dim, pixelated, or completely non-functional.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the navigation unit. Repair is dependent on the age of the vehicle and availability of repair parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ for repair, $500+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moves slowly, erratically, or not at all. May hear a grinding noise when attempting to operate the window.
  • Solution: Replacing the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Toyota Avalon is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of the potential for oil leaks, transmission issues, suspension wear, and electrical problems. The severity and cost of these issues can vary greatly, but addressing them promptly can help prevent further damage and maintain the vehicle’s longevity. The engine and transmission repairs have the potential to be the most expensive, particularly if internal damage requires major repair or replacement.