2015 Toyota Avalon

The 2015 Toyota Avalon is a full-size sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reputation for reliability. Available engine options include a 3.5L V6 engine producing 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, and a hybrid powertrain featuring a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. Both powertrains are connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the Avalon for its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and strong fuel economy (especially with the hybrid). Common criticisms include the somewhat bland styling and less engaging driving experience compared to some competitors.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Oil Leak from Timing Cover
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak originating from the front timing cover area. Visible oil on the engine block, oil drips underneath the car, and potential low oil level.
  • Solution: Removal of the front timing cover, cleaning the surfaces, resealing with new sealant, and reinstallation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the water pump area, overheating, and a whining noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L 4-Cylinder (Hybrid)

• No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (All Models)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifting between gears, especially during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and refill. If the issue persists, valve body replacement or transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid flush: $200 - $400, Valve Body: $800-$1,500, Transmission Replacement: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll in corners, uneven tire wear, and clunking noises from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected struts/shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 per pair
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezes, slow response times, screen blackouts, and Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software update. If the issue persists, the head unit may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update: $0 (if available from the dealer), Head Unit Replacement: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not in use.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the parasitic draw (e.g., faulty relay, aftermarket accessories, etc.) and repair or replace the offending component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the cause)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof does not open or close properly, makes excessive noise during operation, or leaks water.
  • Solution: Inspect and lubricate the sunroof tracks and mechanism. If the issue persists, the sunroof motor or entire sunroof assembly may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Lubrication/Adjustment: $100 - $300, Motor Replacement: $300 - $600, Assembly Replacement: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2015 Toyota Avalon is a generally reliable vehicle, but some owners have reported issues with the 3.5L V6 engine, particularly oil leaks from the timing cover and water pump failure. Harsh shifting from the 6-speed automatic transmission is another fairly common complaint. Electrical issues, such as infotainment system problems and battery drain, can also occur. Suspension issues are fairly rare. Overall, while these issues can be frustrating, they are not necessarily widespread, and the Avalon maintains a good reputation for dependability. The most expensive potential repairs include engine resealing or transmission replacement, while other issues are typically less costly to address.