1997 Toyota Avalon XLE from North America

Faults:

My steering rack went at 138,000 miles; lesson learned is to monitor and change out the steering fluid at least every 60K. This is the only major item that went unexpectedly on the car at a cost of $1000.

I have a rattling noise in the front and rear of the car pretty much since about 30K, so my next move is to have the rear and front struts replaced. The mounts are probably loose since I have read this is a problem as well. My mechanic gave me a $1,200 quote for replacement of the front and rear struts if he supplies the parts; he suggested that I go buy the parts off the net, which would save me $500, so I can get the job done for $700-800.

Very satisfied with the car overall; all you need to do is follow the regular maintenance intervals, change your timing belt every 90K, and Platinum plugs every 90K. I would change the fuel filter every 60K (I just had mine done, had not had it changed in 110K miles, and there was a bunch of sludge). I would also tell people to flush your transmission every 60K, and your radiator every 60K.

I went 110K miles since my last timing belt change and there was very little wear on the back side of the belt, the teeth were fine, and the water pump looked solid to the mechanic, but I change out the pump with the belt.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 23rd January, 2008

17th Aug 2008, 11:56

In 1997 Toyota had a lifetime warranty on the struts. If you pay the labor then Toyota should cover the part. It's not in the regular parts warranty section. I found the note after I paid to have them replaced. 1997 Avalon 121,000. Good luck.

13th Mar 2009, 11:03

The so called 'life time warranty' was for the first 36,000 miles. I know because I had to have all four replaced after 70,000 miles and the dealer charged me full price. I then got my hands on a Toyota service bulletin and found out Toyota would pay for labor and parts if mileage was 36,000 or less. I still love the car even though it now has 295,000 miles on it. Have only replaced starter (easy joy) and fuel pump. It now needs to have the intake manifold gasket replaced and a new timing belt. Looking for a reasonably price auto shop to do job. Dealer is outrageous on price. Any suggestions?

1997 Toyota Avalon LXS V6 from North America

Summary:

Didn't realize the front end noise problems until I stumbled upon this site

Faults:

"Clunking" sounds from the front of the car.

General Comments:

Comfortable, but noisy ride. Car is now in the shop having front strut mounts (including bearings, bushings, and plates) replaced at a cost of $585. After reading all comments on this site, I am wondering if I have made a $585 mistake.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 6th February, 2007

11th Feb 2007, 15:35

You very well may have. I would call Toyota Motor America in Torrance CA and request financial assistance. Apparently there is a design flaw in the top of the strut tower (from all of the comments I have read). Every Toyota technician I have consulted with during dealer visits, as well as aftermarket repair shops can't seem to properly diagnose the problem. I have lived with this "clunk" noise issue on the front end of my 97 Avalon for 10 years. Toyota is very hesitant to fess up to this one. Not surprised though.

18th Jun 2009, 20:24

I put 183,000 on my Avalon, just lived with the "clunk noise" as normal. It never hurt my tire wear, got 80k on my last set of Michelins. Considering you can now buy a used Avalon of this year for Corolla money; the "clunk" may be considered a feature!

1997 Toyota Avalon XLS V6 from North America

Summary:

A great car for anyone!

Faults:

So far I haven't had any major problems with the car. It has been very reliable.

The only thing that I have noticed is when the air conditioner is on high it vibrates a little.

Also the car has wood grain around the stereo etc. and the plastic over the wood has begun to peel off of the wood.

General Comments:

For the most part I love my car. It is still in great condition and it runs like a new car.

If you take care of your Toyota it tends to last quite a long period of time.

The car is fair on gas, and handles well in any weather condition.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 27th July, 2004