2012 Toyota Avalon

The 2012 Toyota Avalon is a full-size sedan known for its comfort, reliability, and spacious interior. Available with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, it offers a smooth and quiet ride. Owners often praise its comfortable seats, ample rear legroom, and reputation for dependability. However, some common complaints include dated styling (compared to newer models), less engaging driving dynamics, and some minor electrical issues.

Engine

3.5L 2GR-FE V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, timing cover, and oil pan. Symptoms include visible oil drips, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or resealing the components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The water pump can fail, leading to coolant leaks and potential engine overheating. Symptoms include a whining noise from the engine, coolant leaks near the water pump, and rising engine temperature.
  • Solution: Replacing the water pump and coolant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (U660E)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing harsh shifting or slipping between gears, particularly at higher mileage.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and filter change can alleviate the issue. More severe cases may require valve body repair or replacement, or a full transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change) - $4000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn struts or shock absorbers can lead to a bouncy ride, poor handling, and increased stopping distances. Noises such as clunking sounds when going over bumps can also be present.
  • Solution: Replacing the struts or shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation/Radio Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation or radio unit may malfunction, causing issues with the display, sound, or functionality.
  • Solution: Replacing the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• TPMS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors can fail, causing the TPMS light to illuminate even when tire pressures are correct.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty TPMS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report the sunroof sticking, failing to open or close properly, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks, or replacing the sunroof motor or assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Toyota Avalon is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners may encounter issues such as oil leaks, water pump failure, transmission problems, suspension wear, and electrical glitches. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, with some being relatively minor and inexpensive to fix (e.g., TPMS sensor replacement), while others can be more significant and costly (e.g., transmission rebuild). Addressing these issues promptly can help maintain the vehicle’s reliability and longevity.