2015 Toyota Avanza

Introduction

The 2015 Toyota Avanza is a popular MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) known for its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It is available with two engine options: a 1.3-liter inline-four and a 1.5-liter inline-four, both paired with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

Despite its overall reliability, the 2015 Toyota Avanza has experienced some specific issues reported by owners and mechanics.

Engine

1.3-Liter Inline-Four

• Intake Valve Sticking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, rough idling, and increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: Replacement of intake valves and cleaning of the intake system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, decreased performance, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner and possibly the timing chain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+

1.5-Liter Inline-Four

• Oil Consumption:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, leading to low oil levels and potential engine overheating.
  • Solution: Engine oil top-ups, piston ring replacement, or engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
• Throttle Body Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, idling issues, and reduced acceleration.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the throttle body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual

• Difficulty Shifting:
  • Description/Symptoms: Stiff shifting or difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Lubrication of linkage and replacement of worn parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Four-Speed Automatic

• Hesitation on Gear Shifts:
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or rough gear changes.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and replacement of solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power or difficulty maintaining speed, especially under load.
  • Solution: Transmission overhaul or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the suspension, especially over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle or dead battery.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of electrical components causing drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
• Electrical Short Circuit:
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating of electrical components, burning smell, or loss of electrical functions.
  • Solution: Electrical wiring repair or replacement of affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+

Exterior

• Body Rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion or rust on body panels, especially under the vehicle.
  • Solution: Rust removal and application of rust protection.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
• Door Lock Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty locking or unlocking doors, or doors not closing properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of door lock actuators or motors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks or disfiguration on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Air Conditioning Problems:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced cooling efficiency, no cooling, or excessive noise.
  • Solution: Freon recharge, repair of AC system components, or compressor replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+

Summary

While the 2015 Toyota Avanza offers a spacious interior and good fuel efficiency, it has some specific issues that owners should be aware of. Engine issues such as intake valve sticking and timing chain tensioner failure can be serious and expensive to repair. Transmission problems with both manual and automatic options can lead to loss of performance and costly repairs. Other issues include suspension strut mount failure, electrical drain, and interior dashboard cracking. Overall, these issues are not widespread and should not deter potential owners, but it’s important to be informed and consider the potential costs when making a purchase decision.