2005-2022 Toyota Avalon Problems: 7 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2005-2022 model years · 4,350+ owner reports · Updated May 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 4,350+ owner reports, the 2005-2022 Toyota Avalon has 7 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. The most commonly reported issue is Dashboard Cracking and Warping with 2,200 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $150 to $5,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

All 7 Known Issues

When Issues Typically Appear

6-Speed Automatic Transmission Torque Converter Shudder

30K-40K

Transmission Shudder and Torque Converter Vibration

30K-40K

Front Strut Mount Bearing Noise and Clunking

60K-80K

Water Pump Leak and Failure (2GR-FE)

80K-120K

Power Steering Rack Seal Leak

80K-120K

038K75K113K150K mi

Community Reported

780 owners

On the 2013-2018 Toyota Avalon, the Aisin U660E 6-speed automatic develops torque converter lockup shudder at 25-50 mph under light throttle. The lockup clutch material degrades, causing vibration during cruising. Fluid degradation accelerates the problem.

This issue also affects: GMC Sierra 3500HD, BMW M3, Cadillac Escalade

Common Symptoms

Shudder at 25-50 mph during light acceleration
Vibration disappears on harder acceleration
Transmission fluid dark or burnt smelling
Rough shifts between 3rd and 4th gear

How to Fix

Perform triple drain-and-fill with Toyota WS ATF (08886-02305). If shudder persists, torque converter replacement is needed. Some owners report success with Lubegard Instant Shudder Fixx additive as a temporary fix. Regular ATF changes every 30,000-40,000 miles prevent the issue.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 780+ owners who fixed this issue

Tip
Tip
UpgradeTransmission flush kit for complete fluid exchange to address shudder (Liqui Moly Transmission Flush Kit)
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UpgradeFull synthetic ATF designed to reduce shudder in automatic transmissions (Valvoline MaxLife ATF Full Synthetic)
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Typical repair cost:$200 - $2,800

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Community Reported

High Confidence780 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2005-2012 Toyota Avalon, the 2005-2012 Avalon with the U660E 6-speed automatic transmission develops a shudder or vibration during light acceleration, particularly in the 30-50 mph range at low engine RPMs. The shudder feels like driving over a textured road surface and is caused by the torque converter lockup clutch slipping. The issue is more pronounced when the transmission is warm and during gentle throttle application. Some owners describe it as a "rumble strip" feeling. The transmission fluid condition significantly affects the severity of the shudder.

This issue also affects: Acura MDX, Audi A4 Avant, Audi A4

Common Symptoms

Vibration or shudder during light acceleration at 30-50 mph
Rumble strip sensation during gentle driving
Shudder disappears under heavy throttle
Shudder more noticeable when transmission is warm
Vibration felt through floorboard and seat

How to Fix

Start with a transmission fluid drain and refill using Toyota WS (World Standard) ATF only — do not use aftermarket ATF. A fluid change resolves or significantly improves the shudder in many cases ($150-$300). If the shudder persists after a fluid change, the torque converter may need replacement ($800-$1,500 for parts, $500-$1,000 labor). In severe cases, the entire transmission may need rebuild or replacement ($3,000-$5,000). Change transmission fluid every 30,000-40,000 miles to prevent the shudder from developing.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

TipA simple drain and refill with Toyota WS ATF fixes the shudder in about 60% of cases. Do 2-3 drain-and-refill cycles (drive 500 miles between each) to exchange most of the fluid. Much cheaper than a torque converter replacement.
UpgradeTransmission flush kit for complete fluid exchange to address shudder (Liqui Moly Transmission Flush Kit)
View on Amazon
UpgradeFull synthetic ATF designed to reduce shudder in automatic transmissions (Valvoline MaxLife ATF Full Synthetic)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$150 - $5,000

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

Community Reported

1,100 owners

On the 2005-2018 Toyota Avalon 2GR-FE, the water pump on the 3.5L 2GR-FE fails prematurely between 80,000-120,000 miles, developing a coolant leak from the weep hole or gasket surface. If not addressed, complete pump failure causes overheating and potential head gasket damage.

This issue also affects: Buick LeSabre, Buick Park Avenue, Buick Encore

Common Symptoms

Coolant leak from front/center of engine
Coolant level dropping
Overheating at idle or low speeds
Whining noise from water pump area
Sweet coolant smell

How to Fix

Replace water pump (Toyota 16100-09515 or Aisin WPT-190). Replace thermostat (Toyota 16031-31011) at the same time. Use Toyota SLLC or equivalent coolant. The pump is driven by the serpentine belt, so inspect the belt and tensioner during replacement.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 1,100+ owners who fixed this issue

Tip
Tip
UpgradeGates water pump — OE-quality replacement with gasket (Gates Water Pump)
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UpgradeGMB water pump — reliable OEM alternative (GMB Water Pump)
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UpgradeGates coolant hose — OEM-grade reinforced rubber (Gates Coolant Hose)
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UpgradePrestone 50/50 pre-mixed coolant — compatible with all colors (Prestone Coolant Antifreeze 50/50)
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Typical repair cost:$300 - $800

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1,100+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence1,100 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

270 owners

On the 2005-2012 Toyota Avalon 2GR-FE, the 3.5L 2GR-FE V6 in 3rd and early 4th generation Avalons consumes oil at rates of 1 quart per 2,000-3,000 miles. Combined with valve cover gasket seepage that drips onto the exhaust manifold, this creates a burning oil smell. The issue worsens with age and mileage as piston ring wear progresses.

Common Symptoms

Burning oil smell in cabin
Oil spots on exhaust manifold
Low oil light between changes
Blue smoke on startup or hard acceleration
Oil consumption increasing with mileage

How to Fix

Replace the valve cover gaskets and spark plug tube seals to address external leaks. For internal consumption, use high-mileage 0W-20 oil with seal conditioners. Severe consumption (over 1 qt/1,000 miles) requires piston ring replacement or engine rebuild.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 270+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeFel-Pro valve cover gasket set for 2GR-FE (Fel-Pro #VS50779R)
View on Amazon
TipValve cover gaskets are a common DIY job on the 2GR-FE - the front bank is accessible but the rear requires removing the intake manifold.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $3,200

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Community Reported

High Confidence270 reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2005-2018 Toyota Avalon, the hydraulic power steering rack on 2005-2018 Avalon models (pre-2019, which switched to electric power steering) develops internal seal leaks. Fluid weeps from the input shaft seal or the rack boots, causing a gradual loss of power steering fluid. As the fluid drops, the power steering pump whines and groans, and steering effort increases. In severe cases, the rack leaks enough fluid to drip on the garage floor and the steering can become dangerously heavy at low speeds. The issue typically develops after 80,000-120,000 miles.

Common Symptoms

Power steering fluid on garage floor
Whining or groaning noise when turning
Steering effort increases, especially at low speed
Power steering fluid level dropping
Wet or oily steering rack boots
Fluid spray on undercarriage near steering rack

How to Fix

Replace the power steering rack with a remanufactured unit ($250-$500 for parts). Labor is 3-5 hours ($400-$800) including a required four-wheel alignment after installation. A new OEM rack costs $600-$1,200. As a temporary measure, power steering stop-leak additive (Lucas Stop Leak, $10-$15) can slow a minor leak. Top off the reservoir with Toyota-specified ATF/power steering fluid and monitor the level weekly. The 2019+ Avalon uses electric power steering and is not affected by this issue.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

TipNever let the power steering fluid run dry. A pump running without fluid will destroy itself within minutes, turning a $500 rack repair into a $1,500 rack and pump repair. Check the fluid monthly.
UpgradeCardone remanufactured power steering pump — OE-spec (Cardone Power Steering Pump)
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UpgradePrestone power steering fluid — compatible with most systems (Prestone Power Steering Fluid)
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UpgradeCardone remanufactured steering rack — tested and ready to install (Cardone Steering Rack)
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UpgradeMoog tie rod ends — premium chassis parts for steering precision (Moog Tie Rod Ends)
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Typical repair cost:$250 - $2,000

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

Community Reported

2,200 owners

On the 2005-2012 Toyota Avalon, 3rd and 4th gen Avalon dashboards crack extensively from UV exposure and heat cycling. Deep cracks spread across the top surface creating glare hazards. Toyota issued Customer Support Program ZJ2 for 2006-2008 models for free dash replacement.

Common Symptoms

Multiple cracks across dashboard surface
Dashboard warping or buckling
Glare from reflective crack surfaces
Dashboard material becoming brittle

How to Fix

Check eligibility for Toyota Customer Support Program ZJ2 (2006-2008 models, free dashboard replacement). For other years, aftermarket dash covers ($40-100), DashSkin overlays ($100-150), or full replacement ($1,000-2,000) are options.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 2,200+ owners who fixed this issue

Tip
Tip
UpgradeDashMat dash cover — protects and covers cracked dashboards (DashMat Dashboard Cover)
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UpgradeCoverlay dash cover — custom-molded replacement overlay (Coverlay Dashboard Cover)
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Typical repair cost:$0 - $2,000

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2,200+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence2,200 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2005-2022 Toyota Avalon, the front strut mount bearings on the Avalon wear out and develop a popping, creaking, or clunking noise when turning the steering wheel, particularly at low speeds and when turning while stationary (like parking maneuvers). The bearing allows the strut to rotate as the wheels turn — when it wears, metal-on-metal contact creates the noise. The noise is most noticeable in cold weather and first thing in the morning. The issue affects all generations of the Avalon but is most common after 60,000-80,000 miles.

This issue also affects: Dodge Avenger, Fiat 500L

Common Symptoms

Popping or clunking noise when turning steering wheel
Creaking sound during slow-speed turns
Noise from front of vehicle when parking
Steering feels rough or catches during turns
Noise worse in cold weather or first drive of the day

How to Fix

Replace the front strut mounts and bearings ($80-$150 per side for parts). The strut must be removed and disassembled using a spring compressor to access the mount bearing — this is a job for a shop unless you have spring compressor experience ($300-$500 labor for both sides). Most shops recommend replacing the struts at the same time if they have over 80,000 miles, since the labor overlaps. A complete strut assembly with pre-assembled mount and spring ($200-$350 per side) eliminates the need for a spring compressor and simplifies the repair. A wheel alignment ($100-$150) is required after strut work.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

TipBuy complete strut assemblies (Monroe Quick-Strut or KYB Strut-Plus) with the mount, bearing, and spring pre-assembled. They bolt right in without a spring compressor and cost only slightly more than mount-only replacement. Much safer for DIY.
UpgradePerformance monotube shocks/struts for sport-tuned suspension (Bilstein B8 Sport Shocks/Struts)
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UpgradeStrut mount and bearing for noise-free strut operation (Moog Strut Mount Assembly)
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Typical repair cost:$200 - $1,000

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Toyota Avalon problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 4,350+ owner reports, the 2005-2022 Toyota Avalon has 7 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Water Pump Leak and Failure (2GR-FE), 6-Speed Automatic Transmission Torque Converter Shudder, 2GR-FE V6 Oil Consumption and Valve Cover Gasket Seepage. None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.

Is the Toyota Avalon reliable?

The 2005-2022 Toyota Avalon has 7 known issues documented across 4,350+ owner reports. No issues are rated critical, suggesting generally good reliability. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Toyota Avalon problems?

Repair costs for known Toyota Avalon issues range from $0 to $5,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What year Toyota Avalon is the most reliable?

Reliability varies across model years of the Toyota Avalon. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2005-2022 Toyota Avalon with 7 documented issues documented across 4,350+ owner reports.

What is the 2005-2018 Toyota Avalon Water Pump Leak and Failure (2GR-FE)?

The water pump on the 3.5L 2GR-FE fails prematurely between 80,000-120,000 miles, developing a coolant leak from the weep hole or gasket surface. If not addressed, complete pump failure causes overheating and potential head gasket damage. Repairs typically run $300-$800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2013-2018 Toyota Avalon 6-Speed Automatic Transmission Torque Converter Shudder?

The Aisin U660E 6-speed automatic develops torque converter lockup shudder at 25-50 mph under light throttle. The lockup clutch material degrades, causing vibration during cruising. Fluid degradation accelerates the problem. Repairs typically run $200-$2,800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2005-2012 Toyota Avalon 2GR-FE V6 Oil Consumption and Valve Cover Gasket Seepage?

The 3.5L 2GR-FE V6 in 3rd and early 4th generation Avalons consumes oil at rates of 1 quart per 2,000-3,000 miles. Combined with valve cover gasket seepage that drips onto the exhaust manifold, this creates a burning oil smell. The issue worsens with age and mileage as piston rin… Repairs typically run $150-$3,200. Severity: medium.

What is the 2005-2012 Toyota Avalon Transmission Shudder and Torque Converter Vibration?

The 2005-2012 Avalon with the U660E 6-speed automatic transmission develops a shudder or vibration during light acceleration, particularly in the 30-50 mph range at low engine RPMs. The shudder feels like driving over a textured road surface and is caused by the torque converter… Repairs typically run $150-$5,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2005-2018 Toyota Avalon Power Steering Rack Seal Leak?

The hydraulic power steering rack on 2005-2018 Avalon models (pre-2019, which switched to electric power steering) develops internal seal leaks. Fluid weeps from the input shaft seal or the rack boots, causing a gradual loss of power steering fluid. As the fluid drops, the power… Repairs typically run $250-$2,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2005-2012 Toyota Avalon Dashboard Cracking and Warping?

3rd and 4th gen Avalon dashboards crack extensively from UV exposure and heat cycling. Deep cracks spread across the top surface creating glare hazards. Toyota issued Customer Support Program ZJ2 for 2006-2008 models for free dash replacement. Repairs typically run $0-$2,000. Severity: low.

What is the 2005-2022 Toyota Avalon Front Strut Mount Bearing Noise and Clunking?

The front strut mount bearings on the Avalon wear out and develop a popping, creaking, or clunking noise when turning the steering wheel, particularly at low speeds and when turning while stationary (like parking maneuvers). The bearing allows the strut to rotate as the wheels tu… Repairs typically run $200-$1,000. Severity: low.

All 7 Known Issues

When Issues Typically Appear

2013-2018 Toyota Avalon: 6-Speed Automatic Transmission Torque Converter Shudder#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2005-2012 Toyota Avalon: Transmission Shudder and Torque Converter Vibration#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2005-2018 Toyota Avalon: Water Pump Leak and Failure (2GR-FE)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2005-2012 Toyota Avalon: 2GR-FE V6 Oil Consumption and Valve Cover Gasket Seepage#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2005-2018 Toyota Avalon: Power Steering Rack Seal Leak#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2005-2012 Toyota Avalon: Dashboard Cracking and Warping#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2005-2022 Toyota Avalon: Front Strut Mount Bearing Noise and Clunking#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

Other Toyota Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Toyota Avalon problems?

Is the Toyota Avalon reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Toyota Avalon problems?

What year Toyota Avalon is the most reliable?

What is the 2005-2018 Toyota Avalon Water Pump Leak and Failure (2GR-FE)?

What is the 2013-2018 Toyota Avalon 6-Speed Automatic Transmission Torque Converter Shudder?

What is the 2005-2012 Toyota Avalon 2GR-FE V6 Oil Consumption and Valve Cover Gasket Seepage?

What is the 2005-2012 Toyota Avalon Transmission Shudder and Torque Converter Vibration?

What is the 2005-2018 Toyota Avalon Power Steering Rack Seal Leak?

What is the 2005-2012 Toyota Avalon Dashboard Cracking and Warping?

What is the 2005-2022 Toyota Avalon Front Strut Mount Bearing Noise and Clunking?