Is Avalon expensive to repair?

For most owners, Avalon repair costs are moderate and predictable, typically lower than many rivals in its class, especially for gasoline models; hybrids add some extra cost potential though most owners won't face frequent high-dollar repairs.

Beyond that quick takeaway, this article explains how repair costs break down by drivetrain, age, and common components, and how the Avalon stacks up against peers for long-term ownership costs.

Understanding the cost landscape

Repair and maintenance expenses for the Avalon depend on several factors, including model year, drivetrain (gasoline vs. hybrid), mileage, driving conditions, and where the work is done. Toyota’s reputation for reliability helps keep routine costs down, while hybrid components can raise the price of a major repair if replacement is needed.

Gasoline vs. hybrid: what to expect

The Avalon has been offered in both gasoline and hybrid forms. Routine service costs are similar for both, but the hybrid powertrain introduces the possibility of high-cost components if they fail or require replacement. That said, hybrids also tend to wear more gradually on certain components and can deliver strong long-term savings on fuel, which factors into overall ownership cost.

Before listing typical costs, it’s important to remember that actual prices vary by region, shop, model year, mileage, and whether maintenance is performed at a dealer or an independent shop.

• Routine maintenance and wear items: Oil changes, filters, spark plugs (where applicable), and brake service. Expect roughly $100–$250 per oil service in many markets, with brakes and general maintenance adding a few hundred dollars per service interval depending on parts and labor.


• Tires and suspension: A set of four tires typically runs $500–$1,000, depending on brand and size; suspension work (bushings, ball joints, etc.) can range broadly from $200 to $1,000 per component, plus labor.


• Non-hybrid drivetrain repairs: Common items like water pumps, alternators, radiators, or cooling system work often fall in the $300–$900 range per repair, plus labor.


• Hybrid-specific considerations: If replacement is required, the hybrid battery pack can cost roughly $2,000–$4,500, depending on year and battery type; inverters and related high-voltage components can also add several hundred to a few thousand dollars. Warranty coverage for hybrids often helps offset some of these costs.


• Labor costs: Labor rates vary by region and shop, but specialized hybrid work generally carries higher labor rates due to training and safety requirements.

These figures reflect typical ranges from mainstream repair shops and dealerships in the United States and are intended to illustrate relative costs rather than quote exact prices. Your actual bill will depend on the specific vehicle, its condition, and where you go for service.

Reliability and ownership costs over time

Avalon’s lineage traces to Toyota’s long-standing emphasis on reliability and comfort. In consumer surveys and industry assessments, Avalons have frequently earned strong reliability scores, contributing to lower unexpected repair bills over the life of the car. Ownership costs—spanning maintenance, repairs, insurance, and depreciation—have generally compared favorably with other mid-to-large sedans in its era, particularly when the car is kept up to date with routine service.

• Reliability benchmarks: The Avalon consistently scores well in reliability and dependability surveys from organizations such as J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, which helps keep surprise repair expenses low for well-maintained examples.


• Resale and depreciation: Strong resale value for well-maintained Avalons can offset some ownership costs, reducing the effective annual repair expense when viewed as part of total cost of ownership.


• Aging considerations: As with any older vehicle, components like suspension parts, hoses, and rubber wear out with mileage and climate, potentially increasing maintenance needs on higher-mileage examples.

In summary, the Avalon is not inherently expensive to repair when compared with many peers in the full-size sedan category. Routine maintenance remains affordable and predictable, while major repairs are uncommon but can be costly for hybrid models if high-voltage components require replacement. As with any used car, the key to minimizing repair costs is proactive maintenance, timely part replacements, and selecting a reputable service provider at the appropriate mileage milestones.

Summary

The Toyota Avalon offers a balance of reliability and reasonable repair costs, with routine service typically being affordable and major repairs relatively infrequent. Gas versions tend to be less costly to fix than hybrids when it comes to big-ticket components, though hybrids can deliver long-term fuel savings and strong reliability. For prospective buyers or current owners, staying on a regular maintenance schedule and choosing trusted repair sources are the best strategies to keep ownership costs predictable and manageable.

What car has the highest repair cost?

The most expensive cars to repair typically include high-end European brands like Porsche, BMW, and Land Rover, due to their complex parts, specialized technology, and higher labor costs. Specific models like the Tesla Model S, Porsche 911, and various high-performance or luxury SUVs and trucks from brands such as Mercedes-Benz, Ram, and Ford are also frequently cited as being costly to repair. 
Luxury and high-performance brands

• Porsche: Frequently cited as having the highest repair and maintenance costs, with an average 10-year cost exceeding $22,000. 
• BMW: Often comes in second, with the 10-year maintenance cost for models like the 328i averaging around $17,800. Repair costs for BMWs tend to rise significantly after seven years. 
• Land Rover: Has a reputation for high maintenance costs, with some sources placing its 10-year cost as the highest of any brand. 
• Mercedes-Benz: Also consistently ranks among the most expensive to maintain, with costs rising sharply after the first few years. 
• Jaguar: Ranks high on lists for expensive maintenance, with a high chance of needing serious repairs after about eight years. 

Specific models and other expensive vehicles

• Tesla Model S: Considered one of the most expensive to repair after an accident due to its unique and complex electric components. 
• Porsche 911: A high-performance luxury sports car with specialized parts that drive up repair costs. 
• Luxury SUVs: Models like the Land Rover Range Rover, BMW X7, Porsche Cayenne, and Mercedes-Benz G-Class are expensive to maintain due to their features and components. 
• Heavy-duty trucks: Despite being less luxurious, vehicles like the Ram 2500 and Ford Super Duty series appear on lists for expensive maintenance due to the high cost of repairs for their complex components. 

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 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. 

Are avalons expensive to maintain?

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