2021 Toyota Avanza

The 2021 Toyota Avanza is a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) known for its affordability, practicality, and spacious interior, making it a popular choice for families and businesses in some markets. It comes equipped with a 1.3L (rated at approximately 95 horsepower and 121 Nm of torque) and a 1.5L four-cylinder engine, offered with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission depending on the market. Owners generally appreciate its fuel efficiency and seating capacity, but some common complaints revolve around its underpowered engine, basic interior, and somewhat dated features.

Engine

1.3L Engine

• Excessive Engine Vibration at Idle
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported noticeable vibrations felt through the steering wheel and seats when the engine is idling. This is more prominent with the A/C on.
  • Solution: Inspect engine mounts for wear and tear or damage, and replace if necessary. Check for vacuum leaks or issues with the idle air control valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.5L Engine

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some users reported that the transmission experiences harsh or delayed shifts, especially between 1st and 2nd gear, and sometimes 2nd and 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Check the transmission fluid level and condition. A fluid flush may resolve the issue. If the problem persists, valve body issues, worn solenoids, or internal wear within the transmission may be the cause, requiring more extensive repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $2,500+ (transmission rebuild or replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Check the rear shock absorbers, bushings, and sway bar links for wear or damage. Replace any worn components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Lag
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system occasionally freezes or lags, especially when using navigation or Bluetooth features.
  • Solution: Try updating the infotainment system software. If the problem persists, the head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $500+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Weak Headlight Performance
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report that the headlights do not provide adequate illumination, especially on dark roads.
  • Solution: Upgrade to higher-performance halogen bulbs or consider aftermarket LED headlight replacements. Ensure headlights are properly aligned.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling from Dashboard Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying rattling noises emanating from within the dashboard, particularly over rough roads.
  • Solution: Tighten any loose screws or fasteners in the dashboard area. Adding foam padding or felt tape between plastic components can help dampen vibrations.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $100+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Toyota Avanza, while offering practicality and affordability, exhibits some common issues. The most prevalent issues appear to be related to the transmission. While some issues are minor and relatively inexpensive to fix, potential transmission problems could lead to significant repair costs. It’s advised to thoroughly inspect the vehicle and address any identified problems promptly.