Are Toyota Avalons expensive to maintain?

In general, Avalons are not expensive to maintain for a full-size sedan. They’re known for reliability, widely available parts, and straightforward service, though costs can vary by model year, mileage, and whether you’re driving a gas-powered or hybrid version.

Maintenance realities by powertrain

Maintenance costs and needs differ somewhat between gas-powered Avalons and their hybrid siblings. Below is a practical look at what owners typically encounter, and how those costs can add up over time.

Gas-powered Avalon maintenance profile

Gas Avalons share the same basic maintenance footprint as other Toyota sedans, with routine service being predictable but influenced by use, climate, and local labor rates.

• Oil changes and routine fluids: about every 5,000–7,500 miles; typically $40–90 at an independent shop, $60–120 at a dealership.


• Brakes: pads/rotors when worn; replacement often $200–350 per axle for pads and rotors, depending on labor and parts quality.


• Tires: replacement every 25,000–60,000 miles depending on tire type; set of four tires typically $600–1,200 including installation.


• Battery and electrical: 12-volt battery replacement around $100–$200; hybrid-related parts are not present on a gasoline-only model.


• Major services: periodic inspections at 60k, 90k, 120k miles; spark plugs, fluids, and other items can run roughly $200–$500 per service depending on parts and labor.

Gas Avalons tend to be affordable to maintain as long as routine services are kept up, and costs stay in check with regular tire and brake care. Neglect or aggressive driving can push costs higher over time.

Hybrid Avalon maintenance profile

Hybrid Avalons add a few unique considerations, but still remain cost-competitive with other hybrids from mainstream brands.

• Oil changes and fluids: similar to gas models (about every 5,000–7,500 miles); expect a small premium at some shops for hybrid-specific checks.


• Hybrid battery and inverter: the most expensive potential repair; failure is relatively uncommon within the warranty period, but replacement can cost roughly $2,500–$3,500 depending on region and labor; many owners never face this in typical ownership cycles.


• Brakes: regenerative braking can reduce wear, so brake pad life can be longer; cost per service remains similar when rotors/pads are needed ($200–$350 per axle).


• Tires: same as gas version; set of four tires typically $600–1,200.


• Maintenance schedule: periodic cooling system checks for the hybrid components, spark plug replacement around 100,000–120,000 miles on some engines, and standard transmission/engine services as per manual.

While hybrid systems introduce additional components, routine maintenance costs usually align with the gas version, and many owners experience lower overall fuel costs that offset some service expenses. The key is to keep the hybrid system well maintained and address any battery-related issues promptly under warranty or dealership programs when available.

Reliability, ownership costs and how Avalons compare

Overall reliability and ownership costs for the Avalon have historically been favorable in the mainstream market. Toyota’s reputation for long-term durability helps keep maintenance surprises relatively rare, especially when vehicles are regularly serviced and kept up-to-date with recalls and service campaigns.

• Reliability profile: the Avalon benefits from Toyota’s broad reliability record and common-sense maintenance approach shared with other Toyota sedans.


• Ownership costs: routine maintenance is typically modest for a large sedan, with major repairs being uncommon if the vehicle is well maintained and not subjected to extreme conditions.


• Model-year considerations: the Avalon was discontinued in the U.S. after the 2022 model year. For used buyers, a thorough service history is especially important to assess ongoing maintenance needs and potential aging components (brakes, tires, hybrid system if applicable).

Compared with European or luxury full-size sedans, Avalons generally offer lower maintenance costs and easier access to parts and service. They sit closer to the Camry in maintenance economics, but with the size and capability of a traditional big sedan, which can influence tire wear, brake life, and other wear items.

Bottom line: what to expect and how to plan

If you’re considering an Avalon or already own one, plan for routine maintenance costs similar to other mainstream sedans of its class. Budget for tires every few years, regular oil changes, and periodic brake service. If you’re looking at a hybrid, factor in the rare chance of a hybrid-system repair, but recognize that most owners enjoy reliable performance with routine care.

Summary

The Toyota Avalon offers strong reliability and cost-effective maintenance compared with many peers in the full-size segment. Routine services are straightforward and reasonably priced, and major repair events are infrequent for well-maintained examples. With production in the U.S. ending after the 2022 model year, prospective buyers should prioritize a solid maintenance history and a careful inspection of tires, brakes, and, for hybrids, the health of the hybrid system. For many buyers, theAvalon remains a sensible balance of size, comfort, and traditional Toyota ownership economics.

Is a Toyota Avalon a reliable vehicle?

The Toyota Avalon is a highly reliable car, with owners reporting very positive experiences and high mileage potential. While most model years are considered solid, some specific issues have been noted, including infotainment problems in some 2013-2018 models and a potential oil cooler issue in the 3rd generation (2005-2012). Overall, the hybrid models are also very reliable, provided regular maintenance is performed.
 
You can watch this video for a buyer's guide and a discussion of common issues with the 2013-2018 Toyota Avalon: 58sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Oct 6, 2020
Strengths

• High Reliability: The Avalon consistently receives high reliability ratings from owners. 
• Longevity: Many owners report driving their Avalons for hundreds of thousands of miles with minimal major issues. 
• Strong Hybrid Performance: The hybrid versions are noted as being extremely reliable, with many of Toyota's hybrid system strengths. 

Potential Issues

• Infotainment: Some 2013-2018 models may experience issues with the infotainment system, such as screen freezing or phone connection drops. 
• Oil Cooler: A potential issue with the oil cooler was reported in the 3rd generation (2005-2012) models. 
• Maintenance: While reliable, the hybrid models require diligent oil change maintenance to prevent oil burning as mileage accumulates. 
• HVAC Hoses: Some models may experience HVAC hose clogs, though this was addressed by a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB). 

Model-specific considerations

• Third-generation (2005-2012): Often cited as a reliable generation, but be aware of the potential oil cooler issue and suspension components that may need attention at high mileage. 
• Fourth-generation (2013-2018): Some owners report a stiffer ride. The infotainment system may require updates and troubleshooting. 
• Hybrid models: Require regular oil changes to prevent issues. 

What year to stay away from Toyota Avalon?

The Toyota Avalon years to avoid are primarily 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2011, 2013, and 2014 due to reports of issues like cracked dashboards, engine oil leaks, premature brake wear, transmission problems, and faulty VVTi oil lines. Specifically, the 2006 model is known for several significant problems, including an oil leak issue that could lead to engine damage, and the 2013 and 2014 models are criticized for a rougher ride and electrical issues.
 
This video discusses the best and worst Toyota Avalon years to own: 51sCar MavenYouTube · Jul 23, 2025
Specific years to approach with caution

• 2005: Has been associated with numerous recalls and issues, particularly concerning brakes, electrical accessories, and other components. 
• 2006: Noted for multiple problems including engine oil leaks (potentially from a faulty oil line), excessive oil consumption, transmission hesitations, and dashboard cracks. 
• 2007: Owners report issues like cracked dashboards, exhaust system problems, and paint delamination. 
• 2008: Has been subject to recalls and complaints about exhaust issues, dashboard cracks, paint defects, and wheel bearing wear. 
• 2011: Is listed as a model year with higher reported issues. 
• 2013: Has a high number of complaints related to engine, transmission, and electrical steering problems. 
• 2014: Faced complaints about a less luxurious ride compared to previous generations, early suspension wear, and infotainment system glitches. 

This video provides a buyer's guide for the Toyota Avalon, including potential issues with 2013-2018 models: 1mDiscerning CarsYouTube · Dec 16, 2023
Key issues to look for

• Engine and Oil Leaks: The 2006 model is especially notorious for a VVTi oil line that can rupture and cause engine damage. 
• Dashboard Cracks: This is a common complaint across several model years, including the 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008 models. 
• Transmission Problems: Some 2013 and 2015 models reported transmission issues, with some sources noting transmission rebuilds are common for 2015 models. 
• Suspension and Ride: The 2014 model was noted for trading plushness for a sharper ride, with some early wear reported in the suspension. 
• Electrical Issues: Problems have been reported in various years, including headlight issues in 2013, a problematic blind spot monitor system in 2013, and infotainment glitches in 2014. 

Is Toyota Avalon easy to maintain?

Toyota vehicles are very reliable and very easy to maintain. A well-serviced Avalon would run smoothly for 15 years and more. Make sure to keep the vehicles serviced regularly. This is an approximation with the assumption that there wouldn't be major crashes involved.

Are Toyota avalons expensive to repair?

The estimated cost to maintain and repair a Toyota Avalon ranges from $105 to $3087, with an average of $376.