1998 Toyota Avalon XLS review from North America
"I would never buy another Toyota again!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
My Avalon began to emit large plumes of white smoke at cold startup.
General comments?
Even after providing proof of the required oil changes, the dealer and Toyota rep claims improper maintenance causing sludge in the engine. This claim was made without even removing the valve covers or oil pan! Toyota refuses to honor their warranty, even after providing records of all oil changes, which were performed every 3,000 miles. The Toyota manual recommends changing the oil every 5,000-7,500 miles!? Many others complain of the same problem with their Toyota Avalon and Toyota Sienna.
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  | Toyota Avalon stinks |
| 1997 - Avalon XLS 3.0L 6 Cylinder Reliable - but full of rattles! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | 6 cyl Automatic |
| Performance marks | 5/10 |
| Reliability marks | 5/10 |
| Comfort marks | 5/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 2/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 245 miles |
| Most recent distance | 30000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Taurus |
| Date of Entry | 27th September, 2000 |