1997 Toyota Avalon XLE review from North America

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.