2014 Toyota Avalon
The 2014 Toyota Avalon is a full-size sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong reliability. Engine options included a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque and a 2.5-liter inline-4 hybrid engine producing 200 horsepower combined. Both options were mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Avalon for its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and generous features. Common complaints include the somewhat bland styling and the disconnected steering feel.
Engine
3.5L V6
- Oil Leak from Timing Cover
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the timing cover, often noticed as oil spots under the car or a burning oil smell. Can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not addressed.
- Solution: Replacing the timing cover gasket or resealing the timing cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Water Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks near the water pump, and unusual noises from the engine.
- Solution: Replacing the water pump.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid
- Hybrid Battery Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced fuel economy, warning lights on the dashboard, and decreased acceleration.
- Solution: Replacing or reconditioning the hybrid battery pack.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $8,000+ (depending on whether it’s a new or refurbished battery)
- Recalls: None Found
- Inverter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Warning lights on the dashboard, reduced power, or complete failure to start.
- Solution: Replacing the inverter assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)
- Torque Converter Shudder
- Description/Symptoms: A noticeable shudder or vibration, especially during light acceleration or when the transmission is shifting.
- Solution: Replacing the torque converter or performing a transmission fluid flush with an updated fluid type.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Harsh Shifting/Delayed Engagement
- Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts between gears, especially when cold.
- Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush, replacing valve body components, or replacing the transmission.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Sag/Softness
- Description/Symptoms: The rear of the car sits lower than usual, especially when loaded. The ride may feel bouncy or uncontrolled.
- Solution: Replacing the rear shocks or struts, and/or the rear springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Navigation/Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
- Description/Symptoms: The navigation or infotainment system freezes, crashes, or becomes unresponsive.
- Solution: Updating the software, replacing the head unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$1200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Door Lock Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the power door locks to operate.
- Solution: Replacing the door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per door.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracking in the dashboard, often near the windshield or around the airbags.
- Solution: Replacing the dashboard.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2014 Toyota Avalon is a generally reliable vehicle, but some common issues can arise. The engine and transmission issues, while not universally prevalent, can be costly to repair. Electrical glitches and suspension problems are also possibilities. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and inspect the car thoroughly before purchase. The cost to fix these issues can vary widely, but some repairs, such as hybrid battery replacements, can be quite expensive.