2017 Toyota Avalon
Introduction:
The 2017 Toyota Avalon is a full-size sedan known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive fuel economy. It is powered by a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. A hybrid version is also available, featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine mated to an electric motor for a combined output of 200 horsepower. The Avalon comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission, while the hybrid model features a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Engine Issues:
3.5L V6
- Oil Consumption: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
- Description/Symptoms: Burning smell, blue smoke from exhaust, low oil dipstick reading
- Solution: Repairing the issue involves replacing the piston rings and cleaning the valve train.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission Issues:
Six-Speed Automatic
- Transmission Slipping: Some owners have experienced transmission slipping, resulting in rough shifting and loss of power.
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or delayed gear changes, jerking or shuddering during acceleration
- Solution: Repairing the transmission often involves rebuilding or replacing the transmission control module or torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Hybrid System Issues:
Hybrid System Failure: Some hybrid models have experienced problems with the hybrid system, resulting in reduced fuel efficiency, loss of power, or complete system failure.
- Description/Symptoms: Illuminated “Check Hybrid System” warning light, loss of power, poor fuel economy
- Solution: The hybrid system failure may require replacing the hybrid battery, power inverter, or other components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension Issues:
Front Suspension:
- Strut Mount Failure: Some owners have reported premature failure of the front strut mounts, leading to clunking noises and reduced suspension performance.
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise when driving over bumps, uneven tire wear
- Solution: Replacing the failed strut mounts and aligning the vehicle is necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical Issues:
- Battery Drain: Some owners have encountered issues with the vehicle’s battery draining excessively when parked.
- Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead after extended periods of inactivity, need to jump-start the vehicle
- Solution: Testing and replacing the faulty electrical component causing the drain (such as a faulty alternator, parasitic draw, etc.)
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior Issues:
- Headlight Condensation: Some owners have reported condensation forming inside the headlights, reducing visibility at night.
- Description/Symptoms: Water droplets or fogging visible inside the headlight lenses
- Solution: Replacing the affected headlights with new ones is required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior Issues:
- Climate Control Malfunction: Some owners have experienced issues with the climate control system, resulting in inconsistent or ineffective temperature control.
- Description/Symptoms: Blower motor not working, temperature not adjusting properly, air conditioning refrigerant leak
- Solution: Repairing the climate control system may involve replacing the blower motor, fixing leaks, or recharging the refrigerant.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
While the 2017 Toyota Avalon is generally a reliable vehicle, some issues have been reported. The most significant issues relate to the engine (oil consumption), transmission (slipping), and hybrid system (component failures). These issues can be costly to repair, ranging from $1,000 to over $10,000 in some cases. The exterior and interior issues are generally less severe and less expensive to fix. Overall, it is essential to research these potential issues thoroughly before purchasing a used 2017 Toyota Avalon.