2018 Toyota Avalon Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Comfortable and spacious cabin ideal for long drives.
- Strong 3.5L V6 engine provides confident acceleration.
- Significant safety concerns exist regarding airbag non-deployment.
- Four recalls were issued, primarily affecting the fuel pump and airbag control module.
2018 Toyota Avalon
The 2018 Toyota Avalon blends upscale comfort with everyday practicality, featuring a spacious interior and a smooth ride powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine. However, used car shoppers should be aware of four recalls and 31 complaints, with a notable focus on the airbag system and fuel pump. Despite a 5-star overall safety rating, multiple reports of airbag non-deployment during accidents are a serious concern. Potential buyers must prioritize thorough pre-purchase inspections to mitigate risks associated with these critical safety components.
Critical Failure Risk
Multiple complaints and a recall (20V024000) highlight issues with the airbag control module, potentially preventing deployment. This is a critical safety defect.
Early detection can help you avoid a $700-$1,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing comfort, a smooth ride, and Toyota's general reputation for longevity.
+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Shoppers prioritizing absolute peace of mind regarding safety systems.
+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2018 Toyota Avalon Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Toyota Avalon.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Electronic Continuously Variable (e-CVT)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 24
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Most Common Issues
1. Airbags
Most reportedUsage: 6 reports
2. Steering
Usage: 4 reports
First Service Interval
- Synthetic Oil Change (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Inspect Airbag System Components - Check Steering Fluid Level and Condition
Est. shop cost: $75 - $125
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FAQ
Is the 2018 Toyota Avalon reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Toyota Avalon is 8.4/10. Reliability score is 8.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 31.
How practical is the 2018 Toyota Avalon for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.4/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 453 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2018 Toyota Avalon?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Toyota Avalon is 7.7/10. Overall score is 7.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.7/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.4/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Toyota Avalon?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Synthetic Oil Change (Parts: 0W-20 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Inspect Airbag System Components - Check Steering Fluid Level and Condition at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600. Repair prediction highlight: Air Bag Control Module (estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $750).
What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Toyota Avalon?
Base MSRP is $37,500.
What engine is in the 2018 Toyota Avalon?
Engine specs list VVT-i Engine • 6 • 3.5.
What transmission does the 2018 Toyota Avalon use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Toyota Avalon, transmission is Electronic Continuously Variable (e-CVT). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Toyota Avalon?
EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Toyota Avalon?
12 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2018 Toyota Avalon?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Toyota Avalon, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2018 Toyota Avalon?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Toyota Avalon, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2018 Toyota Avalon use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Toyota Avalon, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Electronic Continuously Variable (e-CVT).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Toyota Avalon?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2018 Toyota Avalon good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2018 Toyota Avalon is a comfortable and refined full-size sedan. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, there is a modest aftermarket...
What are the most common air bags problems on the 2018 Toyota Avalon?
Top complaint category: air bags (6 reports, 19.4% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Toyota Avalon?
This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.