2008 Toyota Avalon
The 2008 Toyota Avalon is a full-size sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reliability. The standard engine is a 3.5L V6 producing 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The Avalon is generally liked for its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and strong engine. Some common dislikes include the somewhat bland styling and less-than-sporty handling.
Engine
3.5L 2GR-FE V6
- Oil Leak from Valve Cover Gasket
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking onto exhaust manifold, burning smell, low oil level.
- Solution: Replace valve cover gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
- VVTi Oil Line Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the Variable Valve Timing intelligent (VVTi) oil line, which can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
- Solution: Replace the oil line with an updated part. Toyota issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for this issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
- Recalls: None Found
- Water Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating.
- Solution: Replace the water pump.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
U151E 5-Speed Automatic
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts between gears, especially noticeable when accelerating or decelerating.
- Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and refill. If the issue persists, further diagnostics may be required, potentially leading to valve body replacement or transmission rebuild.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (fluid flush), $800 - $2,500+ (valve body/rebuild)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, clunking noises from suspension.
- Solution: Replace worn struts and/or shocks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per axle
- Recalls: None Found
- Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps, vague steering.
- Solution: Replace worn lower control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Navigation Screen Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen may become unresponsive, display incorrect information, or fail to power on.
- Solution: Replacement of the navigation unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Door lock intermittently fails to lock or unlock, or makes a buzzing noise.
- Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350 per door
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions, including failure to open or close properly, or sticking.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof motor, track cleaning/lubrication.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracking or splitting of the dashboard material, often due to sun exposure.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard, or installation of a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ (dashboard replacement), $50 - $200 (dashboard cover)
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2008 Toyota Avalon is a reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of some common issues. Engine issues like valve cover and VVTi oil leaks, and water pump failure can be costly to repair if neglected. Transmission issues can range from fluid changes to more expensive repairs like valve body replacement. Suspension issues affect the driving comfort and handling, and electrical problems can impact convenience features. Interior issues like dashboard cracking are primarily cosmetic. The severity of the issues ranges from minor annoyances to potentially major repairs. Costs range from a few hundred dollars for minor repairs to several thousand dollars for more extensive work.