2016 Toyota Avalon

The 2016 Toyota Avalon is a full-size sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reliability. Engine options include a 3.5L V6 producing 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, and a 2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid producing 200 horsepower, paired with a CVT transmission. Owners appreciate the Avalon’s smooth ride, quiet cabin, and strong resale value. Common dislikes include the somewhat bland styling and the infotainment system’s lack of modern features such as Android Auto/Apple Carplay.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may develop from the valve cover gaskets, timing cover, or oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the car, the smell of burning oil, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the leak.
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The water pump may fail, leading to overheating. Symptoms include a coolant leak, engine overheating, and a whining noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Replacing the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+

2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid

• Hybrid Battery Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hybrid battery capacity degrades over time, leading to reduced fuel economy and diminished performance. Warning lights related to the hybrid system may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacing the hybrid battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $8,000+
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes.
  • Solution: Monitoring oil levels and addressing leaks. A piston ring replacement may be needed in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (top-offs) - $3,000+ (piston ring replacement)

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (3.5L V6)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported torque converter shudder or hesitation, especially during light acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter or flushing the transmission fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+

CVT (2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid)

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of struts/shocks, leading to a bouncy ride, reduced handling, and noise over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per axle

Electrical

• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, and inaccurate GPS data in the infotainment system.
  • Solution: Updating the software or replacing the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Software Update) - $1,500+ (Head Unit Replacement)
• Blind Spot Monitoring System Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the blind spot monitoring system, indicated by a warning light.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing faulty sensors or modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, often caused by parasitic draws from electrical components.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and addressing the source of the parasitic draw. Replacing the battery if needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Battery Replacement) - $500+ (Parasitic Draw Diagnosis/Repair)

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to lock or unlock electronically.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing on the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Dashboard Cover) - $1,500+ (Dashboard Replacement)

Recalls

• Recalls: JTF, JTE, J1Z, J3B

Summary

The 2016 Toyota Avalon generally enjoys a reputation for reliability, but owners may encounter issues ranging from minor electrical glitches to more significant engine and transmission problems. Issues like hybrid battery failure can be very costly. Performing regular maintenance, promptly addressing any warning signs, and thoroughly inspecting the vehicle before purchase are essential for minimizing potential problems.