TransmissionMedium
Occasional torque-converter shudder at light throttle.
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Feel for a vibration at 35–45 mph light acceleration.
2013–2018 Toyota Avalon · common problems & known faults
The 4th-gen Avalon is a comfortable, dependable large sedan; issues are minor and mostly comfort/electronic.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2013–2018 Toyota Avalon are Oil weeping from the timing chain cover, Occasional torque-converter shudder at light throttle and Water pump seepage. 1 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Toyota Avalon.
6.0/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 1
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 3
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Toyota Avalon problems by year
Which faults an average example has usually reached depends on its age. Pick a model year for the faults that matter on that build.
Known faults to check
CoolingMedium
Water pump seepage.
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check for coolant residue at the pump.
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Build the inspection planInfotainmentLow
Entune head-unit glitches / slow response.
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Test navigation, Bluetooth and screen response.
InteriorLow
Dashboard softening in hot climates.
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Press the dash top for tackiness.
EngineHigh
Oil weeping from the timing chain cover.
- Typically appears
- 70,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Shine a torch down the auxiliary belt side of the engine block to check for fresh oil misting or heavy grime build-up along the timing cover seam.
Interior AccessoriesMedium
Rear power sunshade jams or makes a grinding noise.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Turn the ignition on and engage reverse gear. Listen for grinding from the rear parcel shelf and verify the sunblind retracts smoothly without hesitation.
HVACLow
Clicking noise from the fascia or asymmetrical cabin temperatures.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Cycle the dual-zone climate control from LO to HI on both sides. Listen for a rapid clicking sound behind the glovebox indicating a stripped blend door actuator.
SuspensionMedium
Knocking over bumps and poor damping due to leaking front struts.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Apply full steering lock and visually inspect the front damper bodies behind the road wheels for fluid weeping or excessive dirt accumulation on the shock cylinder.
Inspecting a Toyota Avalon?
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the Avalon reliable?
Yes — it shares Camry V6 mechanicals and is very dependable.
Any Avalon engine problems?
The 3.5L V6 is strong; watch only for water-pump seepage.
What's the weakest point?
The Entune infotainment feels dated and can be glitchy.
Are there specific issues with the hybrid powertrain variant?
The hybrid variant utilises the proven 2.5-litre Synergy Drive system. While generally robust, the high-voltage traction battery typically requires replacement around the ten-year mark. Dealers should check the hybrid cooling fan filter located near the rear seats for blockages, as restricted airflow accelerates battery degradation.
How does the ride quality differ across the production years?
Early 2013-2015 models feature a notably firmer suspension setup that can feel harsh on broken tarmac. Toyota revised the damper tuning for the 2016 facelift to restore a more compliant ride. Touring trims retain stiffer springs and larger alloy wheels, making them more susceptible to pothole damage and tyre wear.
What should be checked regarding the active safety systems?
Toyota Safety Sense became standard fitment on 2017 and newer models. The front radar sensor, mounted behind the grille badge, is highly vulnerable to minor parking knocks. Ensure the adaptive cruise control engages without dashboard error messages, as recalibrating a misaligned radar unit is highly labour-intensive.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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