toyota avalon Problems

toyota avalon 2005 Complaints

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CRUISE CONTROL

no accidents so far. problem sonar cruise controlled cars. i have anew toyota avalon limited. i have the sonar cruise contol which works very well. ptroblem when my car slows down suddenly becauseof the car in front, there is no warning for the car behind me.. toyota was notified of this [problem and told me not to use the sonar in heavy travelled roads. that is no souution. there should be a fix to make the brake lights go on when the car is slowed down by the sonar. toyota says that they do not go on. that is the problem no waarning to the driver in the rear of my car. can anything be done to correct that problem? please let mer know. shapm@bellsouth.net. *ak see also voq 10119009. *dsy

Reported in: DAVIE FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B05U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CRUISE CONTROL

2002 toyota avalon has a potential problem with the sonar controlled cruise control equipment.*mr when and if that car in front for some reason or other, will slow down quickly. the driver behind my vehicle has no idea as to what is happening as the brake lights do not show that i am slowing down, especially if consumer are traveling at high speeds. *bf *nm see also voq 10116392. *dsy

Reported in: DAVIE FL || Crash: N || VIN #:

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

we leased a new 2005 toyota avalon.immediately,after driving 6 miles,we started hearing a clunk from the left rear. i called toyota and they said they would check it when i came back to put the spoiler on.they were able to duplicate the noise and kept the car for several days. i did get corporate toyota involved because this dealership has been untrustworthy since day one when the lease was written up wrong-they called and said they needed to replace the left rear lower sub frame and bushings because they were worn. how could it be worn if the noise started after 6 miles-by then i had driven 400 miles. they told me they had to order the parts but that the car was safe to drive. when i went to pick up the car,i asked 2 other people,the advisor and the mechanic if the car was safe to drive because i was going to drive it from san francisco to los angeles,they both said yes. as they were handing me the keys to leave,another mecjanic came runing over and said the car was dangerous to drive and i could not have it. while i was very glad the other mechanic caught the mistake,he said no one had written on my paperwork that the car was unsafe to drive,i did indeed drive a dangerous car that was not safe to drive for 2 weeks. while if this was a used car,i probably would not be writing this,but it was a brand new car! what if something would have happened to me while driving prior to me taking it in,and -god forbid-the other mechanic did not catch the mistake- i thought when we bought new cars they are to be safe to drive!

Reported in: SAN RAMON CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)

i have had repeated problems with the automatic electronic transmission in my toyota avalon 2005 limited over the past month. i have had the car to the dealership to have diagnostics done. the dealership told me there is nothing wrong with my car and i would have to "train" my car computer to drive. i have over 1500 miles on the car and i continue to have the same problems. i drive the car and make starts and stops several times without issue, then at the next stop i start out and the car seems to shift immediately to a higher gear and i have to hit the brakes to avoid hitting other cars. other times, i will press the gas pedal and have no response for several seconds before the car takes off. it makes it very difficult to merge into traffic as i never know when the car will go or not go. there are yet other times that it will start off normally and then seem to get stuck in what seems like second gear and rev for several seconds before shifting. previously, i have pressed the gas pedal and ended up lurching forward when the shift finally occurred. now i let it rev until it shifts itself with no additional gas pedal depression. while this has stopped the lurching, it has left me venerable in that i can not depend on when the car will accelerate so i can avoid accidents with other vehicles, people, and objects. this has been quite frustrating. i consider it a matter of my life and death because i take coumadin and if i am in an accident, it could and quite possible would cost me my life. please let me know what can be done to encourage toyota to deal with this problem.

Reported in: POTOAMC FALLS VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B55U

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

i just purchased 2005 toyota avalon limited. i experience terrible transmission hesitation/slippage. it is getting dangerous when i have to enter highway ramp because of transmission hesitation.when i coast at low speed, for example, i notice a red traffic light ahead and take my foot off the gas, the car then continues forward as if in gear and after a period of time it feels as if the transmission shifts to neutral, the rpms drop to below 1,000. then the traffic light changes when my speed is about 5 - 10 mph and i slowly depress the accelerator. the engine rpms increase about 300 - 500 rpms but there is no acceleration. then the transmission gets the message and we start to accelerate.

Reported in: LAKE ARIEL PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B55U

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)

i recently purchased a 2005 toyota limited. the transmission poses safety problems because it is very uneven and unpredictable, shifting when you don't expect shifting, at lower and higher speeds and in cruise control. (see the on-line discussion forum at edmunds website regarding this problem which many owners are experiencing.

Reported in: CLINTON NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B55U

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER

dt: toyota avalon 2005, total brake failure. there were no brakes after consumer got oil changed, consumer had the dealership fix the problem, dealership put in a new master cylinder. as of june 15,2005 consumer has not picked up the vehicle from the dealership. *ak *sb

Reported in: DELPHI IN || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B25U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

noticing hesitation at low speed gear shifting . results in no acceleration inspite of pressing the accelerator and after a lag car suddenly responds. had trouble while merging from the ramp on to the highway now for a total of three times. concerned that this may result in an accident specially while merging or driving at low speeds in heavt traffic.

Reported in: LINN CREEK MO || Crash: N || VIN #:

SUSPENSION:REAR

i have a 2005 toyota avalon purchased new in april,2005.i also have an earlier complaint,odi#10119869,regarding having to re sauder radio speaker wires,replacing the bushings and lower sub frame,as well as air conditoning,steering,and radio problems all occurring in the first 33 miles of owning the new car.i accidentally filed it under a toyota scion for toyota corp. please see that compliant also.. this complaint is about the transmission. it seems to not want to get out of first gear.getting onto the the freeway is terrible,as well as driving in slow traffic. i have taken it into the dublin toyota dealership and they said there is nothing wrong,it's just that the sensory computer in the car knows how i drive and the gears follow my driving habits. they said they reset it,that maybe when the car was test driven,it set itself to another driver. they said to drive it easy for the first 50 miles,then normally after that. well, before i even drove off thier lot,it stuck again-but i had to go to work so i called them as soon as i got to work and have to take it back in again. the real safety issue occurred yesterday,when i was the first car waiting at a train crossing for about 3 minutes while the train was passing. afetr it passed,as i was crossing the tracks,it took about 15 seconds for the car to move ,again stuck and reving in low gear!i have almost been rear ended on freeway entrances,red lights turning to green,andnd numerours other times,and now on train tracks!!!!something has to be done- i also have compliined to the dealership about noises when steering and they said it is just the release of the brakes.since i cannnot duplicate it,they say there is nothing i can do- it is not the brakes because it happens when i am making sharp turns.

Reported in: SAN RAMON CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B25U

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: SAN RAMON CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B25U

STEERING

Reported in: SAN RAMON CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B25U

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Reported in: SAN RAMON CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B25U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

dt: the throttle stuck to the floor, causing the vehicle to go forward quickly. with a lot of effort the consumer was able to get the vehicle in neutral and shut it off. this happened on september 18, 2005. when the consumer took vehicle to the dealer for repairs they told him that there was nothing wrong with the vehicle. they did nothing to alter the vehicle. the consumer felt that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. *ak

Reported in: WINONA MN || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B35U

POWER TRAIN

we had have our 2005 avalon limited for 2 months now. while this car is an absolute gem, we have experience the acceleration hesitation as did other owners. we took it in to the dealer, and luckily, he was able to replicate the problem. unfortunately, he said that there is nothing mechanically wrong with the vehicle. the issue lies in the computer electronics. he could change out the "brains" of the car, but it would not alleviate the problem. he advised us to call toyota's 800-number to file a report in hopes of raising toyota's awareness. *nm

Reported in: GLENDALE HEIGHTS IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CRUISE CONTROL

with cruise control (cc) on, between about 30 & 70 mph, on inclines that cause a speed decrease of 3+ mph, car downshifts more than the normal 1 gear, & surges ahead quite violently, with large rpm increases, to 3+ mph above that set, then slowly settles to the set speed. with the cruise control set at 70 mph on a level interstate, i slowed to 60 mph & set the "resume" function; it downshifted once, accelerating normally, until, @ 64 mph, downshifted again, more than one more gear & surged violently ahead, up about 3000 rpm & to 72-73 mph before returning to 5th gear, & slowing to 70 mph. the rapid increases are startling to all occupants, and could cause a loss of control, and the often rapid braking to maintain control, a real challenge for the tailgater behind on a cell phone! downhill, with cruise control on, it usually, but not always, speeds up excessively; more than with cruise control off. it usually acts normal on flat roads, and, except as stated, on high speed highways with gradual inclines. with cruise control off, none of these abnormal things happen. when the dealers shop foreman had me test drive a 2006 with him as passenger. and both cars did it he decided it was "normal". but even if all 05/06 avalons do, it's not "normal". while i do know that downshifting gently in the right circumstances is normal, as a highly experienced commercial driver & aircraft pilot/mechanic, & avid cc user, i have never had a vehicle act like this. when i phoned corporate toyota, they opened case #2005 0921 1138; had the "area rep." investigate (he/she never contacted me, or drove my car); told me that since the "area rep" considers it "normal" my only recourse with them is to enter "arbitration". we like this car very much, & would like to keep it if this can be rectified. surely it's a software glitch or something along that line. please help solve this obvious design flaw, before a tragedy forces it. thank you. *jb

Reported in: DEBARY FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B05U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

we purchased a 2005 avalon limited. from nearly the first day we noticed a hesitation driving. the symptom is that the car will hesitate as it thinks about what gear to go into. this is noticeable going up a hill, and is at its worst in a slow turn when the car seems like it might stall. quite simply this is dangerous and from everything we have leered a result of drive by wire. the dealer says it is normal and there is nothing they can do. we spent close to $35,000 for this car and it is outrageous to have this problem. this car is dangerous to drive. there are numerous complaints about this problem on avalon (as well as other toyota models).*jb

Reported in: MANLIUS NY || Crash: N || VIN #:

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION

i own a 2005 toyota avalon limited, this is the second time within an approximate six month period that the vehicle just shut off while in operation. during both occasions the engine surged, hesitated and shut off. the vehicle could not be restarted and was towed to dealer. the first repair for this problem, mechanics stated was a fuse in the fuel control system that blew. the vehicle is presently in the shop for the same problem. they advised at this time they do not know what is causing the fuse to blow. each failure occurred during normal driving conditions, clear dry day, freeway driving. *nm

Reported in: DURHAM NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)

2005 toyota avalon - automatic transmission - control module i just purchased 2005 toyota avalon limited. i experience terrible transmission hesitation/slippage. it is getting dangerous when i have to enter highway ramp because of transmission hesitation. when i coast at low speed, for example, i notice a red traffic light ahead and take my foot off the gas, the car then continues forward as if in gear and after a period of time it feels as if the transmission shifts to neutral, the rpms drop to below 1,000. then the traffic light changes when my speed is about 5 - 10 mph and i slowly depress the accelerator. the engine rpms increase about 300 - 500 rpms but there is no acceleration. then the transmission gets the message and we start to accelerate. *jb

Reported in: PUYALLUP WA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B35U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

dt: the consumer complained about an automatic transmission problem. when applying pressure to the accelerator pedal the gear would not engage. the vehicle did not shift gears smoothly. the consumer suspected that there was a problem with the vehicle speed control. the consumer lost control of the vehicle when another vehicle passed. the dealership informed the consumer that they could not do anything because the vehicle was computer controlled. *ak (12/01/05) *sc

Reported in: LOUISVILLE KY || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B25U

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: LOUISVILLE KY || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B25U

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Reported in: LOUISVILLE KY || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B25U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

unexpectedly the vehicle accelerated when backing out of driveway with foot on brake. went to neutral and engine slowed down. put in drive and it tried to run away again. took to dealer and could not find anything wrong and no codes in computer log. twice previously had similar uncontrolled acceleration when driving on freeway. braked lightly to change lanes and car uncontrollably accelerated. shifted to neutral with heavy braking and engine response came back under control. car only has 3200 miles on it at this date. 9/26/05 incident was at 1975 miles on vehicle, prior incidents were probably a month to 6 weeks earlier. *jb see also voq 10149436. *dsy

Reported in: SACRAMENTO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:LINKAGES

consumer brakes did not work on toyota avalon 2005. *ts (11/17/05) the vehicle also would experienced sudden acceleration when the brakes were applied. on one occasion, the vehicle jumped 6 feet before coming to a halt. *sc

Reported in: CHESTERFIELD MO || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36R65V

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)

since purchasing the avalon in early june, i have been frustrated with how the car operates between 20 and 40 miles per hour. the car does not always know what gear it needs to shift into. it will frequently race 1000 rpm ahead without any change in speed. then suddenly it will accelerate and the rpm's will drop back to normal rpm. it seems to happen most often in rush traffic when trying to change lanes. the hesitation in acceleration will cause me to lose most of my margin of safety in the process of changing lanes. in this regard, the car is not safe. there is no way to predict when the problem will occur, and therein, lies the safety hazard. it would seem that the last effort by the service department to update my computer programming failed to achieve any level of improvement to my satisfaction with one exception. since the first computer upgrade, i have not experienced the complete loss of gear at high speeds. is this a problem in all 2005 avalons? is toyota aware of the problem and do they have plans to resolve it? serviced on friday, october 21. toyota reset the computer learning back to factory default. technical support in ca explained that there are no current plans to address the issue. once the learning process develops a bad pattern, it must be reset back to factory default and the relearning started over. the problem started all over again and there is no "unlearning" the problem. *jb

Reported in: BALLWIN MO || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Reported in: BALLWIN MO || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER

note: i had to classify this vehicle as a camry because a selection for a 2005 avalon was not available - recently we had our first major snow storm. i was driving on the highway and within minutes my windshield wipers began to freeze up and sharply limited my visibility. i checked with the dealer service dept only to discover that toyota does not manufacture a winter (booted) wiper blade for this vehicle. i searched the internet (trico, anco, etc. websites) but could find no aftermarket winter blades for this model avalon. toyota had redesigned the wiper arm and blades to accept only the expensive ($56 a set) toyota manufactured wiper blades. i sent an email to toyota and they responded by telling me to check with my dealers service dept. naturally the dealer could not do anything to resolve the problem because toyota does not manufacture any equipment solutions for them to apply. i am very disappointed with toyota's response as i consider this a serious safety issue. i'm fortunate that i didn't drive off the road and into a ditch. the next time i have to drive in a snow storm you can be certain that i won't be driving the avalon. *jb

Reported in: BILLERICA MA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

i have a 2005 avalon and there is a hesitation between the pushing of the brake pedal and the actual braking of the car, the same is true for the gas pedal. the service manager at the dealership went on a test drive with me and told me that these actions were found in other toyota products and there was not yet a fix on them. i had taken the car back three times and on the final repair trip the service department wrote that the car was to manufacturer specs. i have filed a complaint with toyota and have not received a response as of yet. *jb

Reported in: CULLMAN AL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

vehicle is 2005 toyota avalon feature is engine sensor that causes engine to shut down engine when operating temperature is exceeded or oil pressure drops below toyota determined level. the vehicle was taken into toyota for 5,000 oil change that morning. service was not properly done by toyota dealership. in operating the vehicle, the oil and engine lights turned on. while operating vehicle on highway trying to get back to the dealership, the engine shutdown with no warning to the driver or vehicles behind the avalon. a traffic accident was barely averted. the avalon abandoned driver on highway and impeded traffic. vehicle had to be pushed to the side of the road by police while other officers controlled traffic. oil filter was replaced and the oil was changed. this in no way limits the fact that due to design, the engine can shut down with little to no warning to the driver or the vehicles following. while it is nice that the engine can save itself, it should not be at the cost of injury to the driver or causing an accident due sudden deceleration without warning to other drivers. there was no property damage or a crash due only to quick reactions of the driver in the vehicle behind the avalon. *jb

Reported in: FALLS CHURCH VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B05U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

this is a follow up on the incidents reported under 10142940. when starting to slowly proceed forward behind heavy traffic at a stop light the vehicle suddenly surged forward. i placed transmission in neutral and engine rev's to ~7000 rpm before i could shut it off. tried restarting the engine about 6 times with it immediately going to ~7000 rpm. on about the 7th try the engine started normally and ran normally until i reached home (about 4 miles). called dealership again and they did not particularly want to see vehicle as i could not report any check engine light coming on. i insisted on an appointment and was put off until next week. they claimed they have never heard of this problem with toyota avalons and camry's except for my vehicle. called the dealer/zone customer relations and placed complaint but they also do not know what to do except call toyota engineering. *nm see also voq 10142940. *dsy

Reported in: SACRAMENTO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM

i have filed a complaint with toyota regarding the hesitation and erratic shifting of our 2005 avalon. i was told that it was due to the way the computer controls the new 5 speed transmission in conjunction with their electronic fuel injection control. in researching this problem,i have read where many other avalon owners have also experienced this. on sun.,03/12/06,i had just exited route 80 eastbound (exit 27) in n.j. and proceeded to merge with traffic on route 206 and had to immediately make a left turn. as i pressed on accelerator,the vehicle simply did not respond (hesitation) and, when it did engage after a second or two,lunged forward. this startled all in the car (myself and 2 passengers) and was a very unsafe occurrence as traffic was heavy and moving fast. the vehicle has approx. 7500 miles on it and will be a year old in june,2006. i have an appointment for service with my dealership on tues.,03/21. they are to go over the car and check to see if there are any tech. service bulletins. i have been checking on existence of tsb since shortly after buying the vehicle. i am not optimistic. this is a serious problem and toyota should be doing something about it! thank you. *nm

Reported in: ENDICOTT NY || Crash: N || VIN #: JT2SK12E7R0

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Reported in: ENDICOTT NY || Crash: N || VIN #: JT2SK12E7R0

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

2005 toyota avalon - loose motor mounts causing noise/instability on acceleration from a stop. wheel bearing/axle grease leaking onto front disc pad on driver's side causing improper breaking. distortion in glass in rear window causing road to appear waving and car swerving. *jb

Reported in: NORWALK CT || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B75U

POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY

Reported in: NORWALK CT || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B75U

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

three different electrical shorts in a 2005 toyota avalon limited with less that 5000 miles. the shorts were in the brake light switch, the engine control unit, and the fuse box. the first and third short prevented the car from starting. the second short caused the engine to stall while traveling at 55 mph on a major highway. it is a miracle that there was not an accident. the switch, engine control unit, and fuse box have all been replaced. the car has been towed 4 times during the first year of ownership. *nm

Reported in: FAIRFAX VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B85U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

dt*: the contact stated while driving speeds of 5mph or less in stop and go traffic, there was a delayed acceleration followed by a sudden acceleration forward. the vehicle was seen by an authorized dealer. a factory representative inspected the vehicle and reprogrammed the electronic control module.

Reported in: SCOTTSDALE AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B35U

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:INJECTORS

2005 avalon makes a whistling noise that comes from the window, and there is a knocking sound when turning. gears felt as though they were slipping. *ts ***nar*** the injectors made a loud tapping noise. the front end made a knocking noise when making a slow left turn. the dealer installed window seals to alleviate the wind noise. the consumer heard a rattling noise on the dash as if the dash board was coming apart. *nm

Reported in: FORT SMITH AR || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B056

STRUCTURE

Reported in: FORT SMITH AR || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B056

SUSPENSION:FRONT

Reported in: FORT SMITH AR || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B056

POWER TRAIN

Reported in: FORT SMITH AR || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B056

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

transmission lags then jumps forward, transmission slips at low speeds never seems to find a gear. steering at speeds below 40 will jerk left or right depending on the road.(scares you to death) brakes have grabbed and jerked the car from day one the dealership ground the rotors to fix this but it has not resolved the problem. the car has had the power steering hose replaced because it leaked and it still does. the cd player skip while your parked, the steering wheel needed to be replaced. we have had this car in to the dealer 5 times with none of the problems to the brakes, transmission, or steering resolved. *nm

Reported in: SAINT GEORGE UT || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING

Reported in: SAINT GEORGE UT || Crash: N || VIN #:

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Reported in: SAINT GEORGE UT || Crash: N || VIN #:

EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

Reported in: SAINT GEORGE UT || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

dt*: the contact stated the vehicle was taken to the dealership for an oil change within 7 miles of the dealership and driving 55mph the warning light and the check engine light illuminated. within minutes the engine stalled. upon inspection it was discovered the oil pressure dropped below the recommended level causing the failure. the design feature of the vehicle allows the engine to stall because of the low pressure before an engine failure. as a result to this feature there was a loss of power steering and brakes. a complaint was previously filed odi number, 10147740.

Reported in: FALLS CHURCH VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B05U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

dt*: the contact stated upon initial acceleration the vehicle hesitated. the problem has been present in the vehicle since the date of purchase. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who determined the vehicle was operating normally.

Reported in: MISSION KS || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

TIRES:TREAD/BELT

dt*: the contact stated while driving 40mph through a residential area, the vehicle operated at a reduced speed and suddenly lurched forward. the vehicle was inspected by a dealer who determined the vehicle was operating as designed and was unable to duplicate the problem. additionally, while driving 75mph the front tire blew out without warning. upon initial inspection, there was complete tread separation. the tire was a bridgestone, tire line size of p215/55/r17.

Reported in: ST. GEORGE UT || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B75U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Reported in: ST. GEORGE UT || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B75U

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2005 toyota avalon touring model taken in 5000 mile service with complaints about a noise coming from rear end or transmission. toyota could not hear it until i insisted mechanic take ride me. mechanic acknowledged noise and said maybe coming from computerized abs brake initiating at 5 mph. wife parked at work just couple weeks after maintenance. pulled into parking at work, stopped, put in park and in seconds the car lunged forward with engine revving at high speed; wife stomped on parking brake but by that time car jumped over 10 or 12 foot curb , a four foot sidewalk and into a wall just stopping as it hit the wall. tire marks. call to elmore toyota garden grove (alan/service) who said they had no body shop and did not want to see car or need to check and work on it before body work. said if no lights were on the dash there was nothing wrong. just like their attitude about the ratcheting noise supposed from the abs brake system. wife insists she did not the gas pedal accidentally . when engine revelation after hitting wall went back to normal, car put in reverse to back off side walk. state farm told us not to drive the car to body shop. how do we force toyota to find the problem with this car.

Reported in: GARDEN GROVE CA || Crash: Y || VIN #:

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START SWITCH

Reported in: GARDEN GROVE CA || Crash: Y || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

Reported in: GARDEN GROVE CA || Crash: Y || VIN #:

INTERIOR LIGHTING

2005 avalon instrument panel can not be seen at times in the daylight. *ts the indicator lights for the gear shifter and hvac controls were at times impossible to see. the angle of he dash, the colors used for lighting and the angle of the sunlight rendered the indicators unreadable. the dealer indicated that the vehicle conforms to fmvss standards. *nm

Reported in: CUPERTINO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B95U

STRUCTURE

Reported in: CUPERTINO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B95U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

there seems to be a hesitation when stepping on the gas peddle, it takes a couple seconds before the transmissions responds. when it does, it doesn't seem to know what gear to put it in. sometimes it accelerates normally. but other times it is unpredictable....can be very dangerous when merging or turning onto major roads.

Reported in: EAST NORRITON PA || Crash: N || VIN #:

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)

noticing hesitation at low speed gear shifting . results in no acceleration in spite of pressing the accelerator and after a lag car suddenly responds. had trouble while merging from the ramp on to the highway now several times, but not daily. concerned that this may result in an accident specially while merging or driving at low speeds in heavy traffic. this problem has caused me to bump into a truck resulting in damage to my right front fender. *nm

Reported in: TACOMA WA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

STRUCTURE

2005 avalon transmission problems. *ts the consumer stated the vehicle exhibited excessive wind noise. the consumer was told the vehicle was operating as designed. *jb the transmission had a hesitation up to three seconds. updated *jb the consumer stated wanted to know the status of the complaint.

Reported in: TUCSON AZ || Crash: N || VIN #:

POWER TRAIN

Reported in: TUCSON AZ || Crash: N || VIN #:

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)

i own a 2005 avalon that has a transmission/throttle problem. slowing from speeds in excess of 30 mph, then accelerating moderately, the engine will increase rpm to 2500-3000 rpm and the transmission will shift into neutral until the electronic control decides to shift to a lower gear. at the shift point the car will surge forward rapidly. this surge occurs even on this vehicle with traction control. this "surge" has resulted in multiple near end collisions in city traffic. the neutral shift problem has also been encountered on occasion when entering high speed interstate traffic. 18 wheelers bearing down on you at speed while your car is turning 4000 plus rpms in neutral is frightening. the vehicle has been to three separate dealers and a complaint was registered with toyota manufacturer. toyota responded, saying the transmission was operating as designed. hopefully someone will correct this problem before i, and others, become a statistic in a class action suit as an injury or death numbers. many complaints on this problem can be found on several other web sites. i've been a toyota owner for over 25 years and this lack of response by the manufacturer on this high end of the brand ends that . and toyota does not care if they lost a long term customer, so stated by toyota of america. *nm

Reported in: DELANCO NJ || Crash: N || VIN #:

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY

Reported in: DELANCO NJ || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR

sulfur smell exuding from exhaust system during periods of hard acceleration. dealer replaced catalytic converter. *jb

Reported in: TRIMBLE TN || Crash: N || VIN #:

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

tl* - on 9/24/06 while the contact was driving vehicle at 60 mph and it unexpectedly accelerated to 75 mph. the contact had to apply the brake with both feet to disengage the acceleration on the vehicle. on 10/09/06, while driving on the highway at 40 mph the vehicle accelerated to 75 mph, had to hold both feet on the brake and pull the vehicle off to side of the road. at that point the contact took the vehicle to the dealership,) and the dealer stated that the gas pedal was most likely getting caught under the carpet. the dealer couldn't find anything wrong with the vehicle. while driving on 12/23/06 at 35 mph the vehicle accelerated to 75 mph, after a quarter of a mile contact was able to stop the vehicle by outing both feet on brake. all the brakes were smoking and there was transmission fluid leaking. at that point, contact had the vehicle towed to rosener toyota. *ak updated 01/29/07. *jb

Reported in: FREDERICKSBURG VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36BX5U

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Reported in: FREDERICKSBURG VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36BX5U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Reported in: FREDERICKSBURG VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36BX5U

STEERING

reporting a problem (noise in steering) with his 2005 toyota avalon. **cc the consumer contacted the dealer who indicated that it would be a few day for the replacement part to arrive. after two weeks the consumer called the dealer again. this time the indicated that the part was on back order. *nm

Reported in: LYNBROOK NY || Crash: N || VIN #:

EQUIPMENT

my onboard navigation system goes to great lengths to make sure you agree to not watch the screen while driving, yet when you get to cetain areas the voice guidance system says " voice guidance is not available in this area. please follow the arrows on the screen." this is contradictory and dangerous. even the low cost unit i have in another vehicle provides voice guidance right up to the destination. toyota should provide updated software to cure this safety issue.

Reported in: JANESVILLE WI || Crash: N || VIN #:

TIRES

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. while parallel parking the vehicle,the rim hit the curb and the tire hit the curb. the failure mileage was 10000. the tires were balanced 5 times after the incident occurred. there were no repairs made to correct the problem. the current mileage was 30,000. the failure mileage was 10,000. *ak

Reported in: BURLINGTON NJ || Crash: N || VIN #:

WHEELS:RIM

Reported in: BURLINGTON NJ || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING:COLUMN

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated that the telescoping steering wheel collapsed from the extended position when turning the wheel or driving 45 mph. the dealer stated that this failure has never before been seen, and wanted to keep the vehicle for six months. they checked the computer and found no recalls. the contact felt the locking lever detached and then the steering wheel descended. also heard a clicking noise when the lever began to descend. the current mileage is 30,200, and failure mileage was 3,000.*ak

Reported in: AUSTIN TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B75U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CRUISE CONTROL

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated that when the cruise control activated it surged automatically and then level ed off two gears. the failure gave the impression that the vehicle lost control. while driving in light rain at 50 mph the cruise control caused the vehicle's front wheels to spin. toyota stated that the failure was caused by a programming failure that needed to be repaired. the current mileage is 242,000 , and failure mileage was 3,000.*ak

Reported in: AUSTIN TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B75U

STEERING:COLUMN

steering column make noise when turning to right: service department first replaced right wheel bearing axle. when i said i have seen complaints from others, they replaced steering shaft and joint. fixed problem

Reported in: CAVE CREEK AZ || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING:COLUMN

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact heard a thumping noise when parking the vehicle and turning the steering wheel. the dealer stated that the noise was caused by the steering shaft and the vin was not included in nhtsa recall # 05v227000 (steering:column). the engine size was unknown. the current mileage is 50,000 and failure mileage was 40,000. updated 02/01/08. *lj

Reported in: BRICK NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B85U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2005 toyota avalon acceleration surge when braking. almost rear ended stopped vehicle. went to dealer they could not duplicate the problem.

Reported in: WAKEFIELD MA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B05U

STEERING

steering clunks heard while turning vehicle to the right. auto purchased used, with manufacturer warrenty and certified by toyota to 84 months or 100,000. vehichle currently has 14,000 miles.

Reported in: BLOOMINGTON IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B55U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. when the contact depresses the brake pedal, the vehicle surges ahead or shifts to another gear. the dealer was unable to diagnose the cause of failure. he has spoken with the avalon division of toyota and they stated that someone will contact him in reference to the failure. the vin and engine size were unknown. the current mileage is 22,500 and failure mileage was 20,000.

Reported in: BEACHWOOD OH || Crash: N || VIN #:

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LOCK

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact left the ignition turned on over night and found the battery completely dead the next morning. the trunk would not open as a result of the dead battery and it cannot be manually unlocked. aaa was called to jump start the vehicle so the trunk could be opened. the toyota dealer advised him to go to a locksmith and have a key operated lock installed on the vehicle. the contact felt that the dealer should be responsible for this repair. he went to a second dealer and they stated that they would send his concern through the chain of command, but the contact has yet to receive a response. the current and failure mileages were 22,500. the consumer provided the email correspondence from the consumer pertaining to the defect. updated 09/12/07

Reported in: ARLINGTON VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BATTERY

Reported in: ARLINGTON VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

since purchasing in dec., 2005, transmission hesitates when proceeding from idle at slow speeds and sometimes between gears at highway speed when trying to accelerate. have nearly been rear-ended innumerable times. original several complaints to dealer resulted in info that "no tsb has been issued to fix that". this last time i complained, i was told that it was natural feature of drive-by-wire, that no tsb had been issued which fixed it, and that toyota was not going to do anything about this known problem.

Reported in: DALLAS OR || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated that whenever his 95 pound wife sits in the front seat, the air bag does not activate. he stated that the air bag was set to activate at 60 pounds. the dealer was notified and stated that the vehicle was designed in that manner. the current mileage was 9,000 and failure mileage was 8,000. updated 01-14-08. *kb updated *jb

Reported in: N. FALMOUTH MA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B25U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. while driving 45 mph, the vehicle accelerated automatically to 80 mph. the contact attempted to shift back into auto manual mode, but the transmission failed to respond. the vehicle drove up a hill without the accelerator pedal being depressed. the contact was forced to apply maximum brake pressure to moderate the acceleration and place the vehicle in neutral. the vehicle recently had a routine inspection at 25,300 miles. the dealer did not find any failures with the vehicle. the current and failure mileages were 27,000.

Reported in: SPRING CREEK NV || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B05U

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE

when i attempted to secure the driver side seat belt of my 2005 toyota avalon after a shopping stop, i discovered that the bolt holding the seat belt to the car post had popped out and left the seat belt dangling and unusable. i surmise that it popped out when i released it after arriving at my destination. i immediately drove to the toyota dealership where they reattached it. i do not know whether they used a new bolt or found the old one in the car.

Reported in: ATLANTA GA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B35U

STEERING:COLUMN

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. while driving 5-40 mph, the steering wheel vibrated and he heard clicking noise when turning left or right. the dealer stated that this was a normal occurrence. there is a recall for steering: column (nhtsa campaign id #05v227000) however, the dealer stated that his vin was not included. the failure mileage was 45,000 and current mileage was 54,000. updated 01/29/08. *lj updated *jb

Reported in: VIRGINIA BEACH VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

STEERING:COLUMN

steering column separating as identified in recall yet toyota refuses to repair or replace defective parts. id 05v227000.

Reported in: KNOXVILLE TN || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B85U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

weather: sunny. engine warm - driven about 10 miles on the way to small shopping center. i'm in no hurry, stopping to browse in a favorite boutique. looking for a parking space, slowed vehicle to a crawl while scanning the lot & then turned slowly about 45 degrees to drift into an available space when suddenly the vehicle lurched forward out of control ramming the parked vehicle facing the space i was in. i remember a loud noise - which was the engine accelerating: an unfamiliar sound when the vehicle was just about stopped. then, the noise of the crash - about 6 ft in front of the avalon at the time of the noise & lurch. the impact stopped the car. i put it in reverse & backed away, then turned off the ignition. my foot was not on the accelerator by mistake as it had been on the brake while drifting down the aisle toward the open space - there had been no acceleration while in that aisle. to come to a complete stop in the space i would have had to apply only the slightest pressure to the brake ; therefore, if i had touched the accelerator by mistake i would have not done so with enough pressure to cause the wild acceleration. with my foot above the brake in that instant when i touched the brake to stop the lurch it didn't affect the speed of the car before impact: there was not any hesitation in the engine. no damage to the other vehicle. the avalon sustained some bumper damage and a bent hood - drivable, but i refused to drive it. while waiting for a tow truck i drove to the empty lot behind the stores and tried to repeat the event, unsuccessfully. i discovered that in order to accelerate that quickly, i would have had to have pushed the accelerator to the floor - an impossibility at the 0 miles per hour i was drifting into position in the parking space. the car accelerated suddenly and unintentional through no action on my part. the toyota dealer found nothing wrong with the car.

Reported in: ELLICOTT CITY MD || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM

i was trying to get my 2005 toyota avalon's emission testing done. i went to two testing sites and they were unable to read the emissions system on my car. i went to the dealership and they said that it is a common issue and that your emissions will have to be done old school and that toyota can not keep up with emissions. the problem is that in ga they have done away with the old school style testing and there are only a few locations that still do it. i was told by the dealership that they had 3 other 2005 avalons with the same issue and told them they had to dot it the old school way.

Reported in: CUMMING GA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B05U

STEERING:COLUMN

"maintenance required" light illuminated and i took my vehicle in for service. after mentioning a concern i had, i was called and told that my steering column shaft needed to be replaced. i did not feel any difference in the steering from when i last brought it in before the warranty was up. now, i have a $600 + bill at 43,000 miles. i've always had toyota's and i have been having quite a few problems of late associated with this vehicle.

Reported in: PORTLAND OR || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B25U

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

transmission delay upon exhilaration that put me in a poison of accident, since the car doesn't react or respond on time.

Reported in: ALEXANDRIA VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B75U

TIRES:TREAD/BELT

2005 toyota avalon with unsafe michelin tires. consumer states that the two front tires were replaced with michelin energy tires. he states while driving on the highway at about 70-75 mph both tires disintegrated. *kb the consumer had the vehicle towed to the shop. it was determined that the tires were defective and the tread had separated from the sidewalls. *jb

Reported in: WARNER ROBINS GA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM

i have a 2005 toyota avalon. this week the front and back floors are drenched in water under the carpets. the technician to clean the car noted that there was black mold under the carpets. the belief is that the ac is not draining properly. what and how can this be resolved asap.

Reported in: ARLINGTON MA || Crash: N || VIN #:

STRUCTURE

Reported in: ARLINGTON MA || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING

steering column is defective per dealer. i noticed a clunking sound and vibration as i was driving. i asked dealer to check it out. they advised me i needed a new steering column at a cost of $1835. they told me it would only get worse if it was not repaired. after several phone calls between me , the dealer and toyota north america regarding warranty and safety issues, i approved the repair. the repair [ replace the steering column] was completed on august 28, 2008 and i have the replaced parts. i paid the bill. i believe that this is safety issue and should be covered by toyota even if the vehicle is 5 months out of warranty.

Reported in: CLAREMONT CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B75U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

drove to work (17 miles) 10/2/2008, as typical at 6:30am still dark. after driving about 5 miles kept getting whifs of burning engine oil but kept thinking it was another vehicle on the road. this was intermittent enough so i did not think it was my vehicle. also the newness of the vehicle deceived me. arrived at work and did some looking. found the trail of oil in the parking lot and raised the hood to see oil spewed on the passenger side of engine compartment. called for tow to mechanic. mechanic said that there is a tsb on this. why was there not a recall? this could be catastrophic! the oil light did not come on and the temp was normal throughout....my only indication of a possible problem was smell and to my knowledge persons without this sense are more common than i suspected.

Reported in: CAPE CANAVERAL FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

i was parking my car at work. i pulled into the parking space and backed up slightly to straighten my car. when i put the car into drive to pull forward again , the car raced forward with engine revving strongly. i could not stop the car with the brake. the car crashed and pushed through a thick brick wall. the airbags did not deploy. the car would only stop after i pushed the engine shutoff button. the gearshift was hard to move after the incident.

Reported in: PEACHTREE CITY GA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

POWER TRAIN

Reported in: PEACHTREE CITY GA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Reported in: PEACHTREE CITY GA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

STEERING

my 2005 toyota avalon (touring model) has a defective locking mechanism for the steering column. about every half an hour it will come lose and the steering wheel will drop out of my hands and the lock will jam against my leg, cutting me. i have almost had several accidents. toyota denies there is a design defect. they have been unable and unwilling to fix the problem. this is a very serious problem that could easily result in death. the locking mechanism is located underneath the steering wheel and easily comes lose simply due to vibration and the effect of gravity on the locking device. the last time toyota claimed they fixed it they claimed that they bent the mechanism so that it would not come lose as easily. this obviously is not a proper method of repairing one of the most important parts of the car.

Reported in: HENDERSON NV || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

2005 toyota avalon with 70,000 + miles and just had 70,000 mile service. i was driving home from work and heard engine sounding louder than normal. no warning lights or other warning was given. had vehicle towed to dealership. analysis revealed broken oil pipe and oil soaked timing belt. part is on back order and will not arrive until feb 18 from japan. i was further told that more than a thousand on backorder. in reviewing complaints on 2006 avalon, i noted similar complaints and apparently a service memorandum has been issued. appears to be a defective part. because of safety risk, shouldn't this be subject to recall?

Reported in: HAMPTON VA || Crash: N || VIN #:

STEERING:COLUMN

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact heard an abnormal noise coming from the steering unit. he called the manufacturer in reference to nhtsa campaign id number 05v227000 (steering:column) and was informed that his vehicle exceeded its warranty; therefore, they would not replace the steering column assembly for free under the recall. the vehicle has not been repaired. the failure mileage was 38,853 and current mileage was 41,468. updated 03/24/09.*jb

Reported in: DUNMORE PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B05U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

we bought a toyota avalon in 2005 for my son thinking that we have had a very good experience with our first toyota. yesterday, my worried son called to tell me that oil was leaking from his car. not wanting to cause more damage to his car, he called a towing service and they took his car to the closest repair shop. there he was told that he had to take the car to a toyota dealership as this problem has been reported by several avalon owners. when the car was taken to the dealer, he was told that the part needed to repair the car is in back order and would probably take 3 weeks before it arrives. in the meantime, he was told that there is another avalon waiting for the same part and since that car came in first, his car may not be ready by then. my son was not offered a rental which i will take up with the dealership. looks like whatever was plaguing the avalon 2006 owners is also being experienced by 2005 owners.

Reported in: OAKLAND CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B25U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

i have a 2005 avalon xls with about 25,000 miles. i took it to have a routine oil change on january 23, 2009. when the service technician got under it to remove the filter and drain plug he noticed oil sprayed on the engine and frame and asked me if i knew the vehicle had an oil leak. i told him no and that i hadn't noticed any oil on the ground where i park the car. he then looked at the engine from the top and noticed oil pooling on top of a small hose that connects to a metal line. he told me i should take it to the dealer right away to have the oil leak fixed. i immediately drove to the dealer and a mechanic there told me the problem was the oil pipe sub-assembly. the toyota service rep. said toyota will get and pay for a rental car until my car was fixed. that was over 9 weeks ago and i still don't have my car back!!! the service rep states this problem is happening to many, many avalons and they're waiting for the parts to come in. i think there needs to be a recall issued for this problem not to mention the fact that toyota knew about this issue back in 2005 but did nothing about it. also, can anyone explain why it's taking so long to get the parts?

Reported in: VENICE FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B35U

STRUCTURE

2005 toyota avalon with all leather interior. there are reports that leather from china can cause rashes to the skin due to an ingredient they put in the leather to protect it from mold. my wife and i have developed itchy rashes. is it possible that the leather in our automobile could be infected? how can this be determined?

Reported in: FOLSOM CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

2005 toyota avalon previously had massive oil leak, had vehicle towed to dealer and repair was covered by toyota and provided with rental (10/08) 6/09, started vehicle and the engine made a loud clanking noise - had vehicle towed again and was informed by the dealer tech that it needs a new engine. have extended warranty but not sure if they will cover repairs. 67,000 miles.

Reported in: MIAMI FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B85U

STEERING:COLUMN

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the locking level lever, which controls the steering wheel and moves it up and down, automatically disengages at random. the failure causes the steering wheel to fall onto the driver's lap at any given moment. through research, the contact found nhtsa campaign id number 05v227000 (steering:column). the dealer stated that the locking mechanism needed to be tightened. the steering was tightened, but it did not correct the failure. the failure occurs every 150 miles. the vehicle is still experiencing the defect and has not yet been repaired. the failure mileage was 35,000 and current mileage was 38,900. updated 09/01/09 *bf

Reported in: ARLINGTON VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

while driving a strong "burning oil" smell began to fill the passenger compartment. immediately took the vehicle to a nearby service station where they found oil coating all over the engine compartment with a higher concentration on the passenger side. after putting a couple quarts of oil they started the vehicle and immediately a stream of oil (about the size of a pencil lead) was found spraying out from a rubber hose located toward the rear of the engine compartment on the passenger side of the car, just above a metal bracket. the car was towed to a dealer who replace the leaking hose.

Reported in: PORT NECHES TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B25U

POWER TRAIN

Reported in: PORT NECHES TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B25U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM

toyota avalon 2005 model oil line failure causing oil to spill out into the engine compartment and onto the tires, brakes and roadway.

Reported in: KNOXVILLE TN || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

re: 2005 toyota avalon. lubrication oil leak from the vvti oil line. toyota is aware there is a defect in this part but only will fix it if they see immediate leaking and the vehicle is under 60,000 miles. i have an appointment to bring my car in on october 1, 2010. but have been advised if they do not see oil spurting from the line there will be a 95.00 charge for inspection and they will not fix the defect. in the past 3 weeks i have added 2 quarts ofoil to the engine. the vehicle has approx. 42,00 miles on it. my mechanic has told me this problem is with the 2005 models only. the angle of the oil line is too severe causing the tube to fail and leak oil.

Reported in: SLOATSBURG NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B35U

STEERING

my 2005 toyota avalon developed a noise in the steering. the dealer told me the grease had leaked passed the seals on the intermediate steering shaft. with no grease in the shaft, it will break and cause a loss of steering which could result in an accident or death. toyota customer service said that since the car has more and 36000 miles and is over 3 years old, the problem is not their responsibility. grease should not leak pass the seals on the shaft and should be toyota's responsibility to repair. they told me it would cost $562.

Reported in: CANTON GA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B55U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. when attempting to apply the brakes, the vehicle accelerated without touching the accelerator pedal. the vehicle was shifted into neutral to decelerate. the vehicle was towed to two different dealers, but the technicians could not remedy the failure. a complaint was filed with the manufacturer, but no assistance was provided. the current mileage was 45,000 . the failure mileage was 11,000. updated 11/09/09 *bf the consumer stated his foot was on the brake when the vehicle suddenly accelerated. updated 11/09/09

Reported in: TAPPAHANNOCK VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL

a coach bus traveling at 60 km + (40 + miles per hr) ran a red light and hit my avalon 2005 xls turning left. my speed was between 20km - 25 km (12- 15 miles) an hour. not one of my 12 airbags deployed. when i realized that the bus was going to hit i took my hands off the wheel and removed my feet from both brake and gas pedal with the intent to put the car in neutral. i was lucky - i suffered a shattered wrist and some bruising. the front car was crushed and totaled although the impact came from the nose right across. paramedics and auto collision shop both expressed shock at the non deployment of these bags. the collision center says they look defective. there was a recall of these vehicles in 2006 for airbag problems. toyota has not yet checked the vehicle and has not informed us if this is one of the recalled cars. this car would have been manufactured in the usa. a coach bus has a lot of mass. why no airbags?

Reported in: BURLINGOTON. ONTARIO, CANADA 00 || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW

Reported in: BURLINGOTON. ONTARIO, CANADA 00 || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. while entering a highway the accelerator pedal became stuck to the floor. the vehicle accelerated up to 80 mph. he had to manually lift the pedal from the floor to decelerate. he was advised that he could bring the vehicle in as a trade-in. the failure mileage was 56,400.

Reported in: JACKSONVILLE NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B85U

STEERING

2005 toyota avalon limited, telescoping steering wheel. the lever to lock the steering wheel in position works itself loose. then when you are braking the steering wheel will telescope in. it's a very unnerving feeling. i've taken the vehicle in twice for the problem. toyota said there is no way to repair with replacing the whole steering assembly.

Reported in: DES MOINES IA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B35U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. contact stated while parking the vehicle going up a ramp the vehicle accelerated and crashed into wall. the contact thought at the time her foot slipped on the brake pedal. the contact was not hurt and the vehicle was repaired. one year after the first incident, while pulling into the driveway the vehicle surged again. this time the contact was able to break and stop the vehicle from always crashing into the garage. contact feels this vehicle is unsafe and refuses to drive the vehicle. current mileage was 47,000 and failure mileage was 27,000. updated 1/11/09 *cn updated 01/15/10.*jb

Reported in: SPRING TX || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

my 2005 toyota avalon with the 2gr-fe v6 engine revs high, even when it's warmed up. in traffic, many times it revs high and lunges forward. several times i braked hard to avoid read ending the car in front of me. this has been ongoing since i bought the car in 2005 as i am the original owner. i've taken it in to toyota service and the mechanics found nothing. once i showed them a technical service bulletin from toyota which stated the exhaust manifold, oxygen sensors needed replacement and the ecm needed to be reprogrammed. it worked for a year (2007) then back to the same problem, high revving of the engine, hard shifting and lunging forward or reverse. the latest incident was today, 12/7/09 where i almost hit a pedestrian since the car revved high and lunged into the crosswalk. i had to press the brakes hard to prevent hitting the pedestrian.

Reported in: HONOLULU HI || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B35U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

sudden acceleration in my 2005 toyota avalon. the mat did not interfere with the accelerator. without looking at the vehicle toyota has maintained that the mat is the cause of the accident leading me to believe that about what toyota knows about this problem and is not being candid with the national highway traffic safety administration when informing them of the issue.

Reported in: SPRING TX || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B85U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i have a 2005 toyota avalon. on at least three occasions, i have been involved with extreme acceleration problems with my vehicle. i have been unable to stop the car although i was applying the brakes. this was extremely frightening to me and caused my bold pressure to rise severely...the second incident was reported directly to the safety department of toyota..on december 28th ,2009. nothing was done to correct the problem...

Reported in: SALISBURY NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

65 mph interstate 64 e exiting to fort eustis blvd vehicle accelerated uncontrollably. while trying to control with brakes (standing on the brakes) and steering, the passenger moved the gear shift to neutral. occurrence: once reported to dealer: advised not to drive the vehicle. nothing else was suggested but to wait until toyota issues a notice.

Reported in: YORKTOWN VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B05U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

my complaint is the quick so called fix of the acceleration pedal that toyota says is the problem. the acceleration pedal is not the problem. from my personal experience with this problem with our 2005 toyota avalon occurred after starting the car with my foot on the brake, and shifting the gear into reverse. i had not touched the acceleration pedal so therefore it isn't just the pedal even if the pedal is faulty.

Reported in: SALISBURY NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

my wife drove our 2005 toyota avalon into the parking lot at the tarzana, ca post office. she pulled into a parking spot facing the post office, took her foot off the accelerator pedal and started applying the brakes. the car surged forward, crossing a walkway and ran into a concrete block planter in front of the post office. the car suffered substantial body and radiator damage and is now being repaired at a cost of over $8000. the air bags did not deploy and my wife was not injured. the car was purchased new and has approximately 30,000 miles on it. it has been serviced on a regular basis and was in excellent condition prior to the accident. the car is kept garaged and is unlikely to have had condensation in the accelerator pedal system. the weather at the time of the accident was clear and sunny with the temperature in the 70's. the car is still undergoing repair and we anticipate receiving it sometime this week (2/2/10). we have contacted toyota and they sent an inspector to look at the car on 1/27/10. we have had no report back from toyota as to the cause of the problem. the floor mat was checked the day of the accident and it was firmly in place with the floorboard clips holding the mat to the floor. i checked the floor mat after the accident and it had not moved or interfered with the accelerator pedal. my wife could not have been moving forward at more than 5 miles/hour as she was just moving into the parking spot at the time of the accident. obviously, the car must have accelerated to at least 15-20 miles/hour in the space of approximately 5 feet before running into the planter. it is beyond belief that the problem was caused by a sticking accelerator pedal.

Reported in: TARZANA CA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL

Reported in: TARZANA CA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

toyota avalon 2005. although i have not experienced a sudden power surge or runaway car, i do believe there is a link between the accelerator and the electronics. ever since i have owned the car, brand new, in the twilight hours of driving, the dashboard panel lights will dim and go bright when i step on or let off the gas pedal. i reported this to toyota when i first bought the car, but because it didn't react when the supervisor was in the car with me he couldn't report it or say what the problem was.

Reported in: SHREVEPORT LA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B75U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i have owned and driven a 2005 toyota avalon since may 20, 2005. now it has about 35,000 miles on it. from time to time, estimated at seven or so instances, i noted a dramatic increase in engine rpm when applying the brakes. this happened only during brake application, not at other times. in each instance of unexpected acceleration, i was able to stop the car with a firm, steady application of pressure on the brake pedal. after the first recall for the floor mat, i removed the mat on the driver's side. i was skeptical that the mat was a problem because it is a heavy, oem, fitted mat which was anchored with two factory installed hooks on the floor. they engage the mat through eyelets near the mat's trailing edge. with the mat removed, i experienced another sudden acceleration incident in the garage of hartford hospital. it was close to a disaster but the application of heavy, steady pressure on the brake pedal stopped the car. i considered the possibility that the brake and accelerator pedals are configured or positioned so that both are activated at the same time. on close examination i concluded that was unlikely. i now conclude these failures have been caused by a defect in the electronic system in the car. i have reported this to ctdot. a representative(?) phoned to refer my correspondence to federal dot.

Reported in: NEWINGTON CT || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B35U

STEERING

i have a 2005 toyota avalon. i have always had a problem with the telescopic steering wheel lever not holding in place. 6-12 times a year when i stop my vehicle the steering wheel goes forward towards the engine. i look and the telescopic lever has moved down. i am the only one that drives my car and the lever is never adjusted and nothing could be grabbing the lever. i feel this could be a safety hazard. *jb

Reported in: CIRCLEVILLE OH || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

parking '05 avalon when it accelerated & rear-ended a suv even though i was braking resulting in almost $3000 in damage. it has not happened since. hoping to have gas pedal repaired at toyota dealer when available. was not aware of mfg defect that might have been responsible until recently. insurance premiums were increased due to 'at fault' clause.

Reported in: SILVER CITY NM || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B25U

SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC

i was rear ended by a 2005 toyota avalon. the owner said she had brought the car in bc of the brakes and they told her there was nothing wrong. when she hit me, she had problems stopping the car. i am now permanently injured. *cn

Reported in: RUNNEMEDE NJ || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T10K36335U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

vvti high-pressure oil rubber hose leakage problem on 2005 avalon at 29,500 miles: heard strange engine noise; saw very little oil although i had changed oil only 300 miles ago and no sign on dashboard. put 4-5 quarts of oil and drove 20 miles and parked. after starting the car, saw a huge oil puddle under the engine. next morning towed to toyota mechanic who mentioned the above vvti rubber hose leakage problem in bank 2 (top one). the metal clips connecting the rubber hose to the oil metal tube on bank 2 erode the rubber portion with time, making a small pinhole leak at first which can lead to a crack suddenly under high pressure. googling it i found that it is a very common problem with these v6 engines on 2005 avalons and other toyota cars, such as, rav4. toyota has a service bulletin on it, but it never warned owners like me about it.through a personal letter. some people had their engine seized due to it, mine did not. but worse was in store for me. after the rubber hose was replaced by another similar rubber hose, i started noticing in the following days that the engine started making a grinding noise when i started it cold - after 10-12 hours of overnight parking, say, 75% of the time, but the noise died away after 30 seconds or so; no noise if warm. also, a growling noise was heard when going up small indoor gradients like parking lots. mechanic said that the bolts on the timing gear in both bank 2 and bank 1 had become loose, two bolts were out in the gear box with one broken - all caused during the oil leakage. i was lucky my engine had never seized due to it. he had to replace all parts associated with it, namely, timing gears, cam-shafts, cams, tensioner ring, etc. also, replaced the rubber hose with an all-metal oil tube, as that was what toyota had on its lexus es350, but this only due to my insistence. rubber hose can leak again. also, put silicone on some engine gaskets (?). toyota needs to warn avalon owners about getting this vvti hose replaced.

Reported in: BELLEVUE WA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B05U

STEERING

on my 2005 toyota avalon i heard a noise like a loose tie rod end would make. my car had approximately 55,000 miles on it. i took it in to the toyota dealer and they inspected it to see what the noise was. they told me the noise was from the steering column from not enough grease being put it at the factory. i had to pay for the repair. they also told me this was common for this car. upon further checking i found this to be true. this would become a safety issue if left go. please see why they did not recall this car for the problem.

Reported in: BRANSON WEST MO || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact had a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated that at the end of a long road , which he takes everyday, there is a tight spot were people slow down to make what is a very tight curve that then goes up hill. the contact tried slow down but the vehicle did not respond. the vehicle started to speed up as the contact tried to slow the vehicle. the vehicle was destroyed when the contact crashed into the large rocks on the side of the road. the contact was traveling at 55 mph. the failure mileage was 46000 miles at the failure and currently had 46000 miles.

Reported in: HARRISVILLE NY || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

we own a 2005 toyota avalon that was recalled and fixed..on 2/15/10 my wife was driving on the highway and stepped on the accelerator pedal and nothing happened and the car actually started to slow down...she again pressed the accelerator pedal and the car performed normally. we reported the problem to our dealer...hopefully it will not happen again!

Reported in: HOUSTON TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

STEERING:WHEEL AND HANDLE BAR

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon which was purchased brand new in july 2005. she stated that the steering wheel on the vehicle was very loose. the vehicle was taken to the dealer where they verified the failure as telescopic steering. the contact was not aware as to what repairs would need to be performed on the vehicle. the vehicle was still in possession of the dealer. the failure mileage was unknown and the current mileage was approximately 67,000. the vin was not accepted.

Reported in: HOLLY SPRINGS NC || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. while the contact was driving 55 mph he noticed that the engine temperature had risen. the vehicle was taken to a local mechanic where the contact had the serpentine belt replaced. there were no prior warnings. the current and failure mileages were 57,000. updated 3/24/10 *cn the serpentine belt broke while driving. it was apparently caused by frozen bearings in the idler pulley. the rotors were warped and had to be replaced, the power steering pump was replaced due to leakage. updated 08/11/10

Reported in: BROOKLYN NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:PUMP

Reported in: BROOKLYN NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS

Reported in: BROOKLYN NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

my 2005 avalon with less that 40,000 miles -still under warranty -without any warning from dashboard lights began to lose power on the highway-then it shut down-i managed to get off the road and the car was on fire. toyota had the car for over three months-could not tell what caused this but it melted just about everything under the hood. i was afraid to drive it but they would not make any adjustments toward replacing it. i had to call toyota to get reimbursed for the towing. i had to demand a copy of the 10 page repair bill.

Reported in: LAUREL MS || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B75U

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

inadequate forward illumination of roadway at night with low beams on auto-leveling/adjusting headlights adjust to a setting too low to project adequate light to safely operate the vehicle causing an accident to occur on poorly lit and marked road (each of these elements contributed to the accident). accident caused approx $3500 damage to tires, rims, steering assemble and undercarriage.

Reported in: MARIETTA GA || Crash: Y || VIN #:

STEERING

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. whenever the contact turned the steering wheel in any direction the contact heard a clanking sound in the steering column. the vehicle was taken to a local mechanic where the contact was informed that the steering shaft needed to be replaced. the current and failure mileages were 105,000.

Reported in: WILLIAMSTOWN NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B85U

STEERING

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. he stated that while driving at 65 mph when the steering wheel collapsed to his knees he then had to pull over to check and fix it; however, it continued to occur. the vehicle was taken to the dealer and they did not acknowledge the problem. this failure has occurred 10 additional times since the dealer attempted to diagnose the failure. no repairs were made to the vehicle. the failure mileage was 60000. the current mileage was 91000.

Reported in: ROCKY MOUNT NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

while en route from san juan to ponce, pr, i decided to use the cruise control on my toyota avalon 2005. it worked very well, until i decided to use the resume speed option of the cruise control. as soon as the resume movement was activated, the car accelerated suddenly and lunged forward at an unbelievable rate of speed that scared us, and i had to depress the brake pedal to disengage the resume option. this occurred twice and then i opted for not using the cruise control at all. recently my car was serviced at furiel toyota dealer here in ponce, where the recall requirements for the accelerator and oil hose were completed.

Reported in: PONCE PR || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B75U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

while traveling on a rural county road; approaching a curve; while attempting to slowly decease speed to go in curve the car accelerated and went faster, causing me to run across and off the road hitting a tree.

Reported in: TYLERTOWN MS || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B05U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact was driving up an incline, approximately 25 mph. the vehicle began to accelerate beyond the cruise control set speed. the driver applied pressure to the brakes to disengage the cruise control. the authorized dealer was notified of the malfunction. the vehicle has not been repaired at this time. the failure mileage was 59,000.

Reported in: SIMPSONVILLE SC || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. he took the vehicle to the dealer march 1, 2010 for the accelerator replacement. within ten minutes of picking the vehicle up from the dealer, while driving at 25mph and attempted to turn into a drive way the vehicle started to accelerate. he put his foot on the brake but the brake pedal was hard to depress and did not respond. he put the vehicle into neutral and shut the engine off. he was able to restart the vehicle and he drove it back to the dealer. the dealer stated it might be the computer because it was re-seated. he had not driven the vehicle since march 1st. the contact stated he is afraid he will experience the failure again. the dealer told him if he experienced the failure again he should put his right foot on the gas pedal and put his left foot on the brake. this will cause the gas supply to be cut off and will cause the engine to shut off. the failure mileage was 64,883 and the current mileage was 64,900.

Reported in: TRENTON NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B75U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i have a 2005 toyota avalon, back on 4/18/09 i took my car in to south bay toyota to have them check out this problem-my car was hesitating b4 take off and it would excel faster. i was able to slow it down. but the result from toyota was: performed inspection could not confirm any abnormalities at this time. no pending malfunction codes stored in computer. no check engine light. well i took my car back because it was one of the recall model for the pedal and they made the change ,but now it is worst now, it accelerates faster than b4. while waiting for at a signal some times i can hear it slightly raring up.(i then put it in park) and hold the brake pedal down all the way. i am totally afraid of this car. i tried to trade it in to the toyota dealer but for the suv i want it was to much, and they weren't working with me at all.

Reported in: LOS ANGELES CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B05U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i took my 2005 toyota avalon to the dealer to get fixed for its recall and when i got it back it was worse then before it accelerated funny it would make the car jerk all crazy i felt more unsafe in my car then before ....now the car is back in the dealership they said they need to reset the computer but lets see if it will work ....hopefully because i want to be able to know that i am safe in my car i would of rather had it not fixed i felt more safe then....and they said they test drove it well they should of know that it shouldn't be doing that it would jerk at 25 mph then at 40 then after 60 it would ride smoothly....very scary experience took it back right away.

Reported in: WATSONVILLE CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl*the contact owns s 2005 toyota avalon. the contact was driving approximately 25 mph on normal road conditions. there was a sudden increase of acceleration. the driver was able to gain control of the vehicle, and continued normal operation. the failure occurred intermittently at any given speed. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for inspection. the technician was unable to locate the problem. the failure mileage was unknown.

Reported in: PITTSBURGH PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B95U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

on feb. 11, 2010 i took my toyota avalon in for the accelerator recall. on feb. 17, 2010 i was pulling into a parking space on the grounds of the elementary school i worked at that day when my car accelerated. it jumped the curb sideswiping my car with a car that was parked on my right. after it hit the ground from jumping the curb it accelerated again heading straight toward the school building. i put two feet on the brake and pressed as hard as i could. the car did stop. the car was towed by aaa to a toyota dealer in fort smith, ar (where the accident occurred). i bought the car at molle toyota in kc, mo where i live (overland park, ks). the insurance adjustor came that day to check the damage. he said an investigator would be out to check it the "cause of impact". as of now, that has not happened. my insurance company keeps telling me to take the car back to kc for repairs and i told them i will not drive an unsafe car. i will not touch the car until someone investigates the reason for the acceleration. i have called my dealer, who has been wonderful; toyota corporate who has been horrible (the first thing "barbara" said to me was "well, what do you want me to do about it?") she reluctantly said she would check it out. she called the toyota dealer in fort smith and told him that toyota inspectors would be out within 10 days but didn't know when. i called the highway transportation safety dept. who said they didn't deal with that and to call my ks attorney general. i called the attorney general who told me to email this address. so . . . status: my car is still in fort smith, ar on a toyota lot and nobody will take responsibility for what happened or help me with my next steps. i don't think anyone believed that the car accelerated after the recall fix. finally, it appears that others around the country are having the same issue. i have an unsafe vehicle that i will not drive and don't know what to do next. thank you.

Reported in: OVERLAND PARK KS || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B25U

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

our 2005 toyota avalon was serviced for safety recall on 3/1/10 and gas pedal feel became more sensitive immediately afterwards. on 3/2/10 while driving in rain the abs system activated several times during normal application of the brakes. this was alarming and very disconcerting. subsequent driving later this week did not effect a repeat of the abs concerns. however, there is an occasional slight surge in speed which seems to relate to the transmission shift points which did happen before the recall service.

Reported in: NEW BERN NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. while driving at speeds of 35 mph, a vehicle preceeding vehicle depressed the brakes suddenly to avoid hitting an animal in the street. the contact attempted to depress the brakes, however the brakes did not catch in time and she crashed into the vehicle. the police arrived and a report was filed. there were no injuries. on a separate occasion, while driving at speeds of less than 40 mph, a deer ran out in front of the vehicle and she attempted to stop by depressing the brakes. the brakes did not provide adequate stopping and she crashed into a guard rail, causing moderate damage to the front passenger's side. she was involved in two additional crashes where she attempted to depress the brakes and they would not engage or were slow to engage. neither the manufacturer or local dealer were contacted to report the failure. the failure and current mileages were 108,000.

Reported in: RICHMOND VA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B85U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact was driving down an incline, approximately 10 mph. an increase of acceleration occurred without warning. the engine was turned off and restarted. the vehicle was able to resume normal operation. the manufacturer was notified and provided recall number 1001101339. the vehicle was in the process of being repaired. the technician stated that the failure was related to the floor mat. the current mileage was 72,000. the failure mileage was unavailable. updated 01/13/11*lj updated 01/27/11*jb

Reported in: KANSAS CITY MO || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B95U

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

we have a possible brake pedal interference and a variable value timing issue on our 2005 toyota avalon.

Reported in: WOODSTOCK GA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B85U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

on 1/17/2009 my mothers car left the paved roadway at approx. 70 mph and struck a brick wall. no skid marks were present at the time and we now believe that the vehicle may have accelerated out of control and caused the crash and subsequent death of my mother. updated 03/14/10 *bf updated 05/10/10*jb updated 9/29/11*cw

Reported in: STATEN ISLAND NY || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B05U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i have had several incidences of unintended and sudden information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6). acceleration with my 2005 toyota avalon [xxx] . one resulted into me crashing into the garage. i have formally written to james lentz and akio toyoda and i have had my car inspected by herb wilkie from toyota. i no longer feel that this car is safe to drive...

Reported in: SALISBURY NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

STEERING

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. he stated that while driving at 20 mph, when coming to a stop the steering wheel pulled to the left and he could not keep it positioned straight. the vehicle was taken to the dealer where they stated that they could not duplicate the problem and there was nothing wrong with the vehicle. the vehicle had experienced this issue about 8 times since he purchased it. there had been no repairs done to the vehicle at the time of the complaint.the failure mileage was 1000 and current mileage was 48000.

Reported in: VICTORVILLE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact took the vehicle into the dealer to be serviced per the recall. the vehicle began to surge forward after the vehicle was repaired while driving approximately 15 mph. the contact did not have time to depress the brake pedal and allowed the vehicle slow down on its own. a different driver experienced the identical failure while driving the vehicle at 30 mph. the dealer nor the manufacturer were informed of the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 48000 and the current mileage was 48103.

Reported in: CHATHAM IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

STEERING

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. while driving at 5 mph, turning the steering wheel, it would not engage. she also noticed the steering wheel was improperly aligned. the dealer performed a diagnostic and found the retaining clip that housed the steering wheel had failed and needed to be replaced. repairs were made at the owner�s expense. the failure mileage was 52,024 and the current was 54,381. updated 4/28/10 *cn the consumer stated the steering wheel telescoping feature would not lock and move forward while driving. the dealer stated the entire steering column needed to be replaced. updated 07/06/10 *jb

Reported in: NORTH PORT FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B35U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

we purchased a 2005 toyota avalon. since 2007. we complained of erratic acceleration and downshifting problems. we also reported electrical issues involving the dashboard lights blinking on and off. each response was your car passed all of our diagnostic tests�. last year, while accelerating from a traffic light, our car surged forward hitting a vehicle. luckily, no one was hurt. on january 25, 2010, while accelerating on a bridge incline, the car did not slow when the gas pedal was released. i applied the brakes and steered off the road hitting a curb. i contacted our local dealer. after performing diagnostic tests, we were informed the vehicle was fine. the surging could not be explained. when asked if the car had the cts gas pedal, the service manager wasn't sure. after checking, he confirmed it did have the recalled pedal. we expressed concern about driving the vehicle. the service manager assured us they found no problems and said the two incidents were not related to the faulty gas pedal because they took place too far apart. after contacting toyota corporate (repeatedly) we finally had the �pedal fix� taken care of yesterday. from the start, we felt the dealer ignored us. . one employee told us �if it is related to the gas pedal, it will be the first complaint on the east coast.� we have owned toyotas for over 25 years. we fully understand recalls. it is difficult to understand downplaying the concerns of customers. truthfully, we feel no safer after the new part was installed. this does not seem as if it will take care of the problem any more than the floor mat recall. we also continue to have problems with the electrical system (dashboard lights blink on and off).

Reported in: BALTIMORE MD || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

i was getting into a turn lane which had a red light, there were no cars ahead of me. when i hit the brakes to stop the car a 2005 toyota avalon would not stop. i put the shift in neutral and then in park and then turned the key of and got it by another car and my car still kept going, although it did slow down and stop after being hit. i brought this same car in for the recall fix on feb 24 2010. and this happened after the recall fix.

Reported in: VENTRESS LA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B95U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

re: 2005 toyota avalon// 11/22/05 we were entering the freeway and our vehicle began to accelerate// both feet on brake// accelerated to approx 85 mph// put vehicle in neutral///the car revved to 8000 rpm's// heard a pop and the vehicle stopped accelerating. we drove immediately to nearest toyota dealer and have all of this documented.

Reported in: BELGRADE MT || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B35U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact was driving approximately 5 mph, proceeding to make a turn. the vehicle accelerated unexpectedly and crashed into a large bush. the vehicle was towed to an authorized dealer. the technician advised that a manufacturer inspection was required before repairs were performed on the vehicle which could possibly take months. the contact had concern of being without a vehicle for such a lengthy period and uncertainty of the service repairs. the manufacturer was notified and there was no response. the failure and current mileages were 55,000.

Reported in: PLEASANT CA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5TBRN34171S

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i have a toyota avalon (2005) that has been in to toyota for all the recalls (floormat, accelerator). on march 14, 2010 i was leaving a parking lot when the car accelerated and i could not stop it even by putting 2 feet on the brake. i steered the car over towards the curb, jumped it and pushed the ignition button while both feet were on the brake. the car then stopped. i waited about 10 minutes then drove slowly and apprehensively home. i called the dealer first thing monday morning and was unable to get the car into the shop until tuesday morning. the car remains at the dealer's as they are still trying to recreate what happened. i was told they were talking to kansas city and california. my fear is that nothing will be found, they cannot assure me this won't happen again. i am very apprehensive as i await the outcome. do you have any advice?

Reported in: BENNINGTON NE || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2005 toyota avalon - sent car in on thurs, mar 11th for fixes per recall on accelerator and floor mat. the next day after the fix had been completed, while driving, the car accelerated on its own after releasing the accelerator. the car was fixed at the toyota dealership in redwood city, ca.

Reported in: MENLO PARK CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

POWER TRAIN

information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6). we own a 2005 toyoto avalon. after having the toyota special service campaign/recall (ssc aoa - accelerator pedal reinforcement) done about 3 weeks ago my wife experienced a sudden acceleration while traveling about 5 miles per hour. she was able to stop the car by applying the brakes very hard. we reported the incident to toyota. they gave us a case number, 1003190624, and said that someone would contact us yesterday to investigate. toyota did not contact us on the date they gave. we were at home all day. please investigate this incident and follow-up with toyota. [xxx]

Reported in: MIDDLETOWN NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact noticed a sudden increase in speed when stopping at a traffic light. the acceleration seemed to occur at a low speeds and on an intermittent basis. the repair for recall 10v017000 (vehicle speed control:accelerator pedal) was performed but the failure still occurred. the contact called both the dealer and the manufacturer who both stated that because the surges were occurring at low speeds, no further repairs were covered under the recall. the failure mileage was 4,502.

Reported in: TALLAHASSE FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B05U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

on the 2005 toyota 3.5 v-6 engine (2fzr engine), there is an oil hose that feeds the left bank (top head of the engine) this hose is bulging and cracking and my research shows that this hose has a technical service bulletin issued by toyota, but will not be covered unless the hose ruptures during the 5 year or 60,000 miles warranty. this hose is defective and toyota has replaced it. since part of the lubrication hose to the left bank of the engine is metal, the portion that is rubber is the affected part only. further research found that lexus with similar displacement engine does not have this rubber portion of the lubrication hose. instead, the line is all metal (as is the case in the right bank of the avalon engine. i am requesting an investigation and requesting that toyota issue a metal replacement hose. numerous avalon owners and now highlanders are being recalled to repair this defective rubber hose.

Reported in: TUCSON AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

POWER TRAIN

Reported in: TUCSON AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

purchased the vehicle in 2005. within 6 months the key less entry fob would not work when touching the handle, as specified in the owners manual, with the fob next to door handle in my hand. turned the vehicle in more than 5 times for the trouble. several trips to the repair shop for the problem, the reason stated herein, was not logged into the service report. on at least two trips the service adviser said it wasn't a problem they could fix. the service manager at the facility where i have my work done and where i purchased it becomes irritated if i mention the problem with a curt response "we can't repeat the problem, therefore we cannot do anything." i called toyota to report the problem. they sent, one time, a "technical expert" to check the vehicle. he reported: (1) he could not recreate the problem. (2) it was obvious because i was parking near high radio frequency areas. (3) your fob battery must be low. when it was checked, it was fine. after several batteries were replaced within months of each other, the problem continues. i related (1) i understand rf interference due to formal us government training. then why would it malfunction in a remote farm site? no power lines, no rf towers .. .i checked. malfunctions occurred sometimes at specific locations and then next day at about the same time of day, it would not? no answer. this problem for almost a year never occurred. now within the last 3 months it has started again and there have been no changes in locations, time of day, day of week or parking "spots.' this is very serious problem as you can not get into the car when this malfunctions occurs. what if my life was in danger? on rare occasion, after using the handle more than 6 times, the doors will open. during the period that this malfunction is occurring, the engine will not start with the key less fob next to the on/off starting switch. batteries are fine and not low due to testing. incident date below is last occurrence.

Reported in: WOODBURY MN || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B85U

STEERING

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. while driving at 65 mph, the steering wheel placement lock unlocked suddenly causing the steering wheel to move up and down. the failure occurred on five different occasions. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealership but the dealer could not diagnose the cause of failure. the current mileage was approximately 76,000. the failure mileage was approximately 400.

Reported in: PARRISH FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B95U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. while driving at 10 mph with his foot on the brake pedal, the contact stated that the vehicle suddenly accelerated. the vehicle went over a curb and hit a concrete trash can. there was front end damage to the vehicle but no injuries. the contact called an authorized dealership but the dealer stated that they could not assist him if he did not file a claim with the manufacturer. the vehicle had not been inspected or repaired at the time of the complaint. the current and failure mileages were 18,009.

Reported in: TIEVOSE PA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B95U

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

while driving my 2005 toyota avalon at the medical center in houston, i saw the brake light warning come on. as i continued driving, the brakes continued to fail then i heard a grinding sound and the brake could barely hold. at the time i got home, there was practically no brakes. i had the car towed to a toyota service center where it was fixed with a cost of $1300. i am yet to pick the car up.

Reported in: SUGAR LAND TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B85U

STEERING

the steering wheel column retracting without touching the lever on the left hand side of the steering column. this has happened twice while i was driving and once while my daughter was driving my car on monday 5/2/4/2010. we were able to stop without an accident to secure the steering wheel and fasten the lever.

Reported in: DAYTON OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B95U

STEERING

just adding my similar experience. the lever at the left of the steering column does not hold and drops down periodically. it has happened dozens of times. i took it to the toyota dealer on a couple of occasions but they said "no problem" or either "you had the steering wheel extended too far for it to catch". i just reach down and flip the lever up when it happens and drive with the wheel in closer to the dash until i can stop and safely pull it out to a comfortable position. this has happened many times, particularly when i stop. the wheel just goes towards the dash. i think it is a defect but toyota has never so acknowledged it or repaired it.

Reported in: JOHNSON CITY TN || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

COMMUNICATIONS:HORN ASSEMBLY

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated the horn was inoperable. the vehicle was taken to a dealer where the pad was removed and the contact points were replaced. the remedy lasted for approximately one year and the horn failed again. the dealer lubricated the points and the failure recurred. the dealer replaced the sops lock spring assembly yet, the failure recurred. the dealer was unable to determine the cause of the failure. the contact made adjustments to the steering wheel and when doing so, the horn became operable. the manufacturer was unable to provide any assistance. the failure mileage was approximately 38,000 and the current was unknown.

Reported in: CENTEREACH NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. while traveling at 2 mph, the vehicle suddenly accelerated without warning causing the contact to crash into a nearby tree. there were no injuries. a police report was available. the vehicle was towed to the dealer where the contact was awaiting diagnosis of the failure. there were no prior warnings. the current and failure mileage was 39,000.

Reported in: FREEPORT ME || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. while driving at approximately 4 mph, the vehicle began to independently change gears and jerk violently. the contact took the vehicle to the dealer for unrelated maintenance and advised the dealer of the failure. the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired for the failure. the failure persisted and became progressively worse. he contacted the dealer and secured an appointment for diagnostic testing and possible repairs. the vin was not available. the failure mileage was 600 and the current mileage was 21,500.

Reported in: DEWEY AZ || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated she was attempting to enter a parking space at approximately 2mph. when she depressed the brake pedal, there was an unusual increase in engine rpms and the vehicle abnormally accelerated. the contact crashed into a tree and continued to accelerate until independently stopping. the contact sustained injuries to her knees. a police report was available. the vehicle was towed to an authorized toyota dealer where the vehicle was inspected two weeks following the crash. the technician advised that the results would not be available for 30-45 days. the contact was awaiting the results of the inspection. the failure and current mileages were approximately 49,000.

Reported in: FREEPORT ME || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

2005 toyota avalon. consumer states problem with vehicle's horn *tgw the dealer tried to make repairs by lubricating the contact points in the steering wheel. the longest time the horn would work, was about 12 months and then the problem returned. recently, when the consumer released the wheel lock and pulled the steering toward him and returned it to the down position two times, the horn began to work . the consumer then began to question the electrical wiring in the steering column. *jb

Reported in: CENTEREACH NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

COMMUNICATIONS:HORN ASSEMBLY

Reported in: CENTEREACH NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under nhtsa campaign id number: 10v017000 (vehicle speed control: accelerator pedal). following repairs, the vehicle began to exhibit signs of potential stalling before abnormally accelerating. the dealer advised that the spark plugs were not properly firing. the spark plugs were replaced yet the failure persisted. the dealer then advised replacing the transmission. the failure was not as constant as before however; sporadically the vehicle would exhibit signs of hesitation. the contact stated that prior to recall repairs, the vehicle was operating as normal. the vin was not available. the failure mileage was 114,000 and the current mileage was 120,000.

Reported in: HONEA PATH SC || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM

engine stalled while driving resulting in complete engine failure.

Reported in: WESTAMPTON NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B55U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM

engine stalled while driving resulting in complete engine failure.

Reported in: WESTAMPTON NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B55U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM

engine stalled while driving resulting in complete engine failure.

Reported in: WESTAMPTON NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B55U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM

engine stalled while driving resulting in complete engine failure.

Reported in: WESTAMPTON NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B55U

TIRES

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon equipped with goodyear fierce hp tires, line size 215/55/r17. the tires were installed by a tire dealer on august 18, 2010. the following day while driving 65 mph, the rear passenger side tire suddenly exploded. the contact inspected the tire and noticed bubbles on the sidewall. prior to the blow out, she discovered that the tire was becoming flat. the dealer refused to provide a replacement tire and the manufacturer was contacted where the contact filed a complaint. the dot number was unavailable. the current mileage was approximately 43,000 and the failure mileage was 42,755.

Reported in: JERSEY CITY NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B85U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact was driving approximately 5 mph and attempting to park. the brake pedal was engaged and the vehicle abnormally accelerated. the vehicle would not stop until the ignition was turned off. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for diagnosis and the computer software was updated. the vehicle was previously repaired under nhtsa campaign id numbers 09v388000 and 10v017000 (vehicle speed control: accelerator pedal). the failure occurred after the recall remedy was performed on the vehicle. the contact had concerns with the potential safety hazard. the failure mileage was approximately 61,000.

Reported in: LASALLE IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B85U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated that the vehicle was leaking oil. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer seven times where the oil tube, hose, filter housing, studs and drain plug casket were replaced. however, the failure continued. the failure mileage was 30,214 and the current mileage was 56,289. updated 01/12/11*lj the dealer replaced, the drain plugs, gaskets, crank seal, valve covers and oil pan. the moonroof did not operate properly and there was a problem with the battery not charging. updated 04/15/11 the consumer stated the upper and lower oil pans were replaced. updated 07/19/11/ *jb

Reported in: FREDERICKSBURG VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

VISIBILITY

Reported in: FREDERICKSBURG VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BATTERY

Reported in: FREDERICKSBURG VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated that he received a recall notice on november 19, 2010 stating that he should contact toyota in regards to his service brakes. after calling the manufacturer they informed him that there are no parts available to actually start the recall repair. the contact was concerned about the safety risk since it had been over a month since he received his notice. there are no failures at this time. the vin was not available.

Reported in: SACRAMENTO CA || Crash: N || VIN #:

SUSPENSION:REAR

rear strut mounts on my 2005 toyota avalon failed at 45,000 miles. it cost over $900 to replace the rear struts and mounts. i contacted toyota who ignored my written communication for over 1 month. i finally received the standard (off warranty of 36,000 miles) response after i sent an email.

Reported in: NORWALK CT || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B75U

STEERING

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. while driving approximately 20 mph the contact heard a cracking noise coming from the telescopic steering. the vehicle was taken to the dealer where the technicians stated that the intermediate shaft needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the lever that holds the steering wheel up released on its own while driving and it happened a few different times. the approximate failure mileage was 34,000.

Reported in: HOMOSASSA FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36BX5U

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated that he received notification of nhtsa campaign id number: 10v499000 (service brakes, hydraulic: foundation components: master cylinder) and contacted the manufacturer to inquire. the manufacturer advised that the parts needed to make recall repairs were not readily available and the vehicle would be in the possession of the dealer for approximately two months before the repairs were completed. the contact did not feel the repair would be performed in a reasonable time frame. the manufacturer provided a rental for the contact until the vehicle was repaired. the approximate failure and current mileage was 46,000.

Reported in: LOGAN UT || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B25U

STEERING

toyota avalon ltd. 2005..steering wheel locking mechanism that locks the steering wheel into position "up and down"..the lever does not lock into position and easily opens and the steering wheel drops down even as the car is in motion...almost lost control as i was driving as the lever opened down and the steering wheel dropped quickly as i drove the car....when i informed toyota of the potential danger, they said it was no problem....i think it is.............

Reported in: PALM BCH. GDNS. FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

STEERING

steering column locking lever suddenly disengages and steering wheel collapses from set position while driving. this has occured approximately six times in last 1000 miles. loosing steering wheel stability has caused unsafe control of vehicle.

Reported in: NEWINGTON CT || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B85U

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact received repairs to the vehicle under nhtsa campaign id number: 10v499000 (service brakes, hydraulic: foundation components: master cylinder) by an authorized dealer. after repairs, the contact noticed that when she would drive and remove her foot from the accelerator pedal, the vehicle would stop independently and then proceed as if it were pulling or dragging abnormally. in addition, she noticed smoke coming from under the vehicle. the dealer advised her that there was a mechanical error on their end which caused the failure. the master cylinder was repaired a second time. the failure mileage was approximately 71,200.

Reported in: EAST FALMOUTH MA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl*the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated that while driving at low speeds and in reverse out of a parking space, the vehicle suddenly accelerated in reverse and crashed into another vehicle. she applied the brakes as hard as she could but the vehicle wouldn't stop. no one was injured. the police were not notified. the vehicle was towed to a dealer and they are waiting for an inspector to diagnose the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was approximately 48,000. the vin was unavailable.

Reported in: NAPLES FL || Crash: Y || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact was driving approximately 35 mph when the vehicle suddenly accelerated and crashed into a utility pole. the contact attempted to apply the brakes but to no avail. the contact was injured and a police report was filed. the vehicle was towed to a local body shop and declared as destroyed. prior to the crash, the contact received notification of nhtsa campaign id number: 10v017000 (vehicle speed control:accelerator pedal) and the vehicle was taken to the dealer where the contact was advised that no mechanical failure were located within the vehicle. the failure and current mileage was 100,000.

Reported in: ST. LOUIS MO || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B75U

AIR BAGS

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact was driving 60-65 mph when the vehicle abnormally accelerated. the brakes were depressed to the floorboard and the parking brake was engaged but to no avail and the vehicle continued to accelerate. the contact was concerned that he would crash into another vehicle and exited an off ramp where he crashed in an open field where the vehicle went airborne and rolled over several times. before coming to rest right side up. the vehicle was destroyed. the contact sustained internal injuries and a fracture to both the left and right ribs. the vehicle was destroyed. a passenger sustained injuries to the ribs and vertebra. a police report was filed. the contact stated that he had never experienced the failure prior to the date of the crash. the approximate failure and current mileage was 62,000. the consumer also stated the air bags failed to deploy. the consumer stated the accelerator modification was performed by the dealer in april 2010. updated evoq 06/15/11.

Reported in: CORONA CA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B75U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

Reported in: CORONA CA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B75U

STEERING

the steering wheel friction lever suddenly dropped and the steering wheel collapsed while the car was in motion. updated 05/12/11 *bf

Reported in: PALM BEACH GARDENS FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36845U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

first contacted toyota motor sales u.s.a., inc. in torrance, ca. and advised them of my car troubles prior to going to dealership for service. i made them aware that i do not trust dealer service departments. they assigned me a case number and documented my issues with engine/powertrain malfunction that still exist today and both the dealer and toyota motor sales have not addressed problem. also, i stated to dealer that there was leakage surrounding the power steering pump. dealer was quick to resolve problem by trying to induce me to have pump changed without performing true diagnostic procedures to include; failure to remove front r/h tire to look at power steering pump from the front side, failure to clean power steering pump and surrounding areas to investigate true area of leakage. instead, dealer service department came to an immediate conclusion that the pump must be leaking from pump shaft bearing. cost to replace; $750.00 which i declined to have replaced. with the vehicle up on jack stands and with true diagnostic testing, i removed front r/h tire, thoroughly cleaned power steering pump and surrounding area and steered left to right and right to left many times and can not locate leak at this time. could be even engine oil that dripped down or pump high pressure line that goes to steering cylinder gearbox/yoke area. as far as the power train/engine problem that has been going on for a very long time, the engine and transmission are always out of synchronization. to briefly state, the engine wonders (hi and low rpms) and the transmission will be in wrong gear. furthermore, throttle response is many times non-existent. i depress pedal and no engine response is found. need to further depress pedal for engine to accelerate. this is a serious safety factor as far as i am concerned. have other issues not able to state because of your limited words allowed.

Reported in: WILDOMAR CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B95U

STEERING

Reported in: WILDOMAR CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B95U

POWER TRAIN

Reported in: WILDOMAR CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B95U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated that while reversing 3 mph from a parking space, the vehicle abnormally accelerated and crashed into two parked vehicles. the vehicle was then shifted into drive yet the vehicle then accelerated forward before crashing into another vehicle and a light pole. both of the front air bags deployed, causing injuries and bruises to the driver and the passenger. a police report was filed. the vehicle was towed to the dealer and deemed as destroyed. the contact stated that just prior to the crash, the vehicle was serviced by the dealer for routine maintenance. the contact referenced nhtsa campaign id number: 10v017000 (vehicle speed control:accelerator pedal) but could not confirm if the vehicle was included in the recall as the manufacturer was not contacted. the failure mileage was 40,000.

Reported in: ANNAPOLIS MD || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B954

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

the headlight dimmer switch intermittently fails to dim the headlamps when returned to the low beam setting. this failure substantially impairs the vision of oncoming drivers.

Reported in: CHOCTAW OK || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated that while driving with the cruise control set at 55 mph, the vehicle surged forward to 70 mph without warning. the failure was experienced twice. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer, but the vehicle was not examined to determine the cause of failure. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 100,000 and the current mileage was 103,000. the vin was not available.

Reported in: LANCASTER OH || Crash: N || VIN #:

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated that while driving 5 mph and making a right turn, the contact depressed the brakes and the vehicle would not stop. the contact crashed into the curb to prevent him from crashing into another vehicle. the contact received a recall notice 10v499000 service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:master cylinder. the vehicle had not be taken to the dealer to be repaired. the vin was not available. the failure mileage was 11,984.

Reported in: SACRAMENTO CA || Crash: Y || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

vehicle experienced an unexplained acceleration while pulling into a parking space causing the vehicle to crash through a fence and underneath a parked construction tractor trailer. vehicle accelerated with enough force to move the parked construction trailer several inches, shattering the windshield of the vehicle, and required extensive repairs to the vehicle of approximately $6,000. aubrey alexander toyota of selinsgrove, pa performed the "unexplained acceleration recall" of this vehicle in march 2010. we purchased this vehicle new in 2005 and prior to this incident we never experienced any unexplained acceleration.

Reported in: LEWISBURG PA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact was driving 20 mph when the brakes were depressed but the vehicle did not respond and crashed into another vehicle. there were no injuries. on a second occasion while driving 25 mph, the brakes failed a second time and the contact crashed into another vehicle. there were no injuries and a police report was filed. the vehicle was taken to the dealer but the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure nor was the vehicle repaired. the contact stated that there were several recurring braking failures experienced in the vehicle. the failure mileage was 90,000 and the current mileage was 97.341.

Reported in: EASTON PA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B05U

VISIBILITY

the right side view mirror is fogging up. i contacted toyota (case no. [xxx]) after taking the car to a dealer who said the entire unit had to be replaced at a cost of $680, stating this is a safety issue that should not have happened since the mirror had not been damaged. their position was that nothing could be done by toyota. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).

Reported in: BOYNTON BEACH FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36BX5U

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact was driving approximately 55 mph when the vehicle became resistant to acceleration. the vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing where the technician stated to the contact that the ignition coil would have to be replaced. the vehicle was repaired but the failure persisted. the vehicle was not further repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 75,000.

Reported in: GLEN MILLS PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

STEERING

steering problems per recall 05v227000 for 2005 toyota avalon that manuf refuses to address. steering pops when turning & sounds like it's getting worse. refuse to pay dealer $450.00 to replace recall so i will take it to another certified mechanic that i trust.

Reported in: MAINEVILLE OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

STEERING:COLUMN

Reported in: MAINEVILLE OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

my check engine light came on while i was driving,and then the vsc light came on,car hesitates when gas pedal is applied then jerks and takes off almost ran in the back of a few people,went to dealer they said it was a ecu computer 1350$ had car for 8mo. only put 8000 miles on it,was very dangerous driving this car

Reported in: BALTIMORE MD || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

i was driving my 2005 toyota avalon in stop and go traffic due to an earlier accident up ahead. vehicle speed at the time was approximately 10-15 mph. without warning the avalon surged ahead and rapidly accelerated. my vehicle impacted a truck which i had been following for some time. air bags deployed, the windshield shattered and i sustained numerous injuries. the avalon was declared a total loss. it's unbelievable how so much damage could have resulted from such a slow initial speed and the short distance i traveled. mileage at the time was approximately 59,000 and i had driven the vehicle since it was new without any previous incidents. numerous recalls involving acceleration and braking with the avalon had already been completed by our local toyota dealer.

Reported in: BLUFFTON SC || Crash: Y || VIN #: 4T1BK36B35U

STEERING

the steering column has begun making a rather noticeable "clacking" noise when turning. it can be both heard and felt in the wheel. this is a common problem with these cars, and toyota has put out a service bulletin (#00206, nhtsa # 10019669)for repair under warranty, but wants $930 to repair it if out of warranty. they're claiming it is not a safety issue, but a steering wheel that makes noises you can hear (and feel) doesn't seem all that safe.

Reported in: GREEN BAY WI || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B85U

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL

2005 toyota avalon. consumer writes in regards to faulty with oxygen sensor *tgw the consumer stated the lights on the dash illuminated when nothing appeared to be wrong with the vehicle. *jb

Reported in: MARIETTA OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B154

VISIBILITY

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated that while driving 5 mph, he noticed that the passenger side view mirror was fogged internally. the contact was unable to remove the fog from the mirror. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer and they were unable to diagnose the failure. the contact was informed that the only way to remedy the failure would be to replace the mirror. the manufacturer was notified and offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 90,000. updated 05/24/12 *bf

Reported in: BOYNTON BEACHBEACH FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36BX5U

VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR

Reported in: BOYNTON BEACHBEACH FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36BX5U

STRUCTURE

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated that the dashboard cracked due to defective material. the dashboard crack initiated in the air bag area and spread across the dashboard. the manufacturer was made a ware of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 22,300 and the current mileage was 22,500. updated 8/23/12 *cn

Reported in: BOYTON BEACH FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

TIRES

tl* the contact owns a 2004 toyota avalon equipped with yokohama ascend tires, size p205/60/r16. the contact stated that when the vehicle reached 55 mph, the steering wheel vibrated. the steering wheel did not vibrate prior to the tires being changed. the contact had the tires balanced again after the change, but the failure continued. the failure mileage was unknown and the current mileage was 47,086. updated 08/20/12 *bf updated 08/20/2012 *js

Reported in: HAZLETON PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BF28B94U

POWER TRAIN

front axle of the car broke in the middle of the road and the entire wheel came off with the axle connected.

Reported in: KATY TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B05U

STEERING

the steering wheel friction lever suddenly dropped and the steering wheel collapsed while the car was in motion (normal speed). plus, there is a popping, clicking sound when turning steering wheel that you can hear and feel in the steering wheel.

Reported in: MONTGOMERY AL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36BX5U

ENGINE

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated that while driving various speeds, she experienced an excessive pulsation in the accelerator pedal. the failure recurred whenever the vehicle was in operation. the vehicle was repaired under nhtsa campaign id number 10v017000 (vehicle speed control) in june of 2010. the failure recurred recently. in addition, the vehicle would accelerate independently. the failure recurred four times. there was also a default with the variable valve timing. the manufacturer was notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 60,000. ...updated 05/22/13 *bf the consumer stated the vehicle was being rebuilt. updated 06/14/2013 *js

Reported in: HAMPTON VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

STEERING

Reported in: HAMPTON VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES

Reported in: HAMPTON VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Reported in: HAMPTON VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

SERVICE BRAKES

i had multiple incidences of my car surging in my toyota avalon. i would put my foot on the brake but the car wouldn't stop but would surge forward. at first this didn't scare me and i got a little used to it actually so that i thought i could handle it. but it kept getting worse. i drove on the highway between iowa city and cedar rapids a lot. i would always use cruise control. i would say it happened to me 10-15 times on the highway between cedar rapids and iowa city. i remember coming very close to rear ending someone when i had to slow down to exit but the car wouldn't slow down.

Reported in: CEDAR RAPIDS IA || Crash: N || VIN #:

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Reported in: CEDAR RAPIDS IA || Crash: N || VIN #:

ENGINE

noticed oil puddle on my garage floor when vehicle was approximately 3 years old and still under powertrain warranty. toyota dealer replaced oil line hose. vehicle had same leak approximately one year later and hose was replaced again. noticed oil leak again when vehicle had approximately 55,000 miles less than 5 years old. this time was timing cover leak. dealer repaired vehicle under warranty and referred to some tsb concerning timing cover leak. continued to have periodic leaks attributed to loose connections. at 95,000 miles timing cover leaking again. dealer repaired, but no warranty service. complained to toyota why no recall and having recurring problem with timing cover. toyota stated they would provide me with $1,000 check to assist in covering the $1853.53 dealer repair charge upon submitting paid invoice to them. noted that a majority of 2005 avalon owners have had the same problems, but no recall from toyota. why not?

Reported in: SAN ANTONIO TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B55U

STEERING

the steering lever moved down and the steering wheel dropped in 2-3 inches while the car was moving.

Reported in: PALM BEACH GARDENS FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B45U

STEERING

i noticed the telescoping lever had fallen a few times while entering vehicle but paid it no mind and just pushed it up. i was driving along one day and i put the brakes on and making a turn and the wheel just collapsed to the all the way down position and it caught me off guard and i almost crashed! i try to be more conscious of the fallen lever but if neglect to push it up the telescoping steering wheel will fall at least once a day while driving usually when braking since when the vehicle is braking there is more downward force on the column. the dealer and toyota corporate are telling me they never heard of the issue and its normal wear and tear and i need to pay for the repairs. that is obviously a lie since i have found numerous complaints online and even a tsb toyota issued about this issue. how and why should i be held financially responsible for a safety concern that they are unwilling to fix. i hate that it might cause a crash and maybe then after the crash they might do something about their defective vehicle. one more thing the telescoping option is almost never used so its certainly not from being used too much.

Reported in: NEW SMYRNA BEACH FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B05U

STEERING

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated while driving approximately 5 mph, the power steering assist failed and the steering wheel became hard to turn. the vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed that the steering lock and power steering pump needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 141,245.

Reported in: RUTHERFORD NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B15U

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

i was driving at 70 mph up i-81 in heavy traffic and lost all power. i was able to steer to the shoulder. i turned on flashers, put car in park, turned key off, and tried to restart engine. it immediately cranked right up and i proceeded up the interstate. five minutes later, at 70 mph, it happened again. again i was able to steer off the road and restart the engine. i continued on home for another 2 hours with no problems. on 5/18, i went to church and it happened again. since i was driving slowly, it was hard to steer (no power steering). at no time has a light come on showing it needed service or some problem. i assume since i was driving so fast on the interstate, i didn't notice the power steering loss when i lost all power. i am afraid that it might happen again and i might get killed from not being able to pull onto a shoulder.

Reported in: FREDERICK MD || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

STRUCTURE:BODY

i have rust pouring out of my 4 doors on my 2005 toyota avalon and it continues to bleed into my paint job. i have been requesting a fix for years and they just keep wiping the rust away and do not fix the actual problem. i am not absolutely sure but i'm pretty sure they put the wrong nuts and bolts inside the automobile! stainless steel should have been used and they didn't? also they think because safety is not the issue, and is still fine your organization won't assist me? i pray they're wrong. i only want what i paid for which isn't what i received and is that not fraud? have a great day and god bless america! thank you!

Reported in: GIRARD PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B35U

ENGINE

check engine light came on, replaced #2 ignition coil. 800miles and 3 months later same thing happened,replaced #5 coil. toyota dealer said this is normal for a high mileage car. total cost $700+ if this is normal they should damn well pay for it. it takes reliable out of toyota.

Reported in: SAEGERTOWN PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36BX5U

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Reported in: SAEGERTOWN PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36BX5U

SUSPENSION

at highway speed, felt vehicle push to the left, as if by a strong gust of wind. heard intermittent clunking sound under rear of car. upon parking, noticed rear right wheel canted inwards. after removing the rear right wheel noticed the right rear suspension arm assembly number 2 disengaged and hanging loose. inspected the threads on the assembly and they were rusted and worn down. i googled this part failure and this failure seems exactly like that described for the toyota rav 4 that resulted in a recall.

Reported in: SEVERNA PARK MD || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B65U

AIR BAGS

dashboard is cracked all across from the drivers side airbag to the left door. also the dash is becoming sticky ans shiny. toyota service quoted me almost $2500 to replace the dahboard.

Reported in: SEMINOLE FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36BX5U

STRUCTURE

tl* the contact owns a 2005 toyota avalon. the contact stated that the dashboard's vinyl cover fractured. the crack initiated at the driver side and spread to the air bag and glove compartment area. the contact was concerned that the air bag may deploy. the dealer stated that the dashboard was defective and needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired and the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 77,000.

Reported in: VENICE FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 4T1BK36B95U

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