2021 Toyota Avalon

The 2021 Toyota Avalon is a full-size sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reliability. Engine options include a 3.5L V6 producing 301 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5L inline-4 hybrid producing 215 net horsepower. The V6 is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the hybrid uses a CVT. Owners generally appreciate the Avalon’s smooth ride, quiet cabin, and fuel efficiency (especially with the hybrid). Some common dislikes include the somewhat bland styling and less-than-sporty handling compared to some competitors.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Oil Leaks from Timing Chain Cover
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak near the front of the engine, visible oil drips. Smell of burning oil.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain cover gasket, resealing the timing chain cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $1800+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, poor fuel economy. Check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (V6 Model)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeably harsh or jerky shifts, particularly between certain gears.
  • Solution: Software update of the transmission control module (TCM). If the problem persists, replacement of valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 software update, $800 - $1500+ valve body replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

CVT (Hybrid Model)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system occasionally freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes, requiring a restart. Affects navigation, audio, and other functions.
  • Solution: Software update of the infotainment system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Driver Seat Discomfort
  • Description/Symptoms: Some drivers find the driver’s seat uncomfortable on long trips, even with adjustments.
  • Solution: Aftermarket seat cushions or professional seat modifications to improve lumbar support.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2021 Toyota Avalon is a generally reliable vehicle. However, some owners have reported issues with oil leaks on the V6 model, fuel injector failures in the hybrid model, infotainment system glitches, and harsh shifting with the V6 transmission. While most issues are not catastrophic, the oil leaks and transmission issues can be costly to repair. The infotainment problems can be frustrating, but are usually resolved with a software update. Overall, the Avalon is a solid choice, but potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems.