1999 Toyota Avalon

92 federal complaints (113 component records) · 1 recall campaigns on file · 1 federal investigation · 72 service bulletins
See all 28 model years of the Toyota Avalon →
Engine
3.0L 6-cyl
Fuel
Regular
Drive
FWD
EPA economy
19 city / 27 hwy
Federal complaints
92
Recall campaigns
1
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Air bags
25
Speed control
22
Suspension
14
Engine & cooling
7
Electrical system
6
Brakes
6
Tires
5
Seat belts
4
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

When it fails

The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.

Vehicle age when the failure occurred

0 years old: 14 complaints01 years old: 6 complaints2 years old: 8 complaints3 years old: 8 complaints4 years old: 12 complaints5 years old: 2 complaints56 years old: 5 complaints7 years old: 3 complaints8 years old: 6 complaints9 years old: 2 complaints10 years old: 3 complaints1011 years old: 2 complaints12 years old: 0 complaints13 years old: 0 complaints14 years old: 1 complaints15 years old: 2 complaints1516 years old: 2 complaints17 years old: 0 complaints18 years old: 0 complaints19 years old: 0 complaints20+ years old: 0 complaints20+
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 76 of 92 complaints with a usable failure date.

Odometer when the failure occurred

0,000 - 20,000 miles: 4 complaints020,000 - 40,000 miles: 9 complaints40,000 - 60,000 miles: 5 complaints40k60,000 - 80,000 miles: 3 complaints80,000 - 100,000 miles: 3 complaints80k100,000 - 120,000 miles: 0 complaints120,000 - 140,000 miles: 4 complaints120k140,000 - 160,000 miles: 1 complaints160,000 - 180,000 miles: 3 complaints160k180,000 - 200,000 miles: 2 complaints200,000+ miles: 0 complaints200k+
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 34 of 92 complaints reporting a plausible odometer (500 to 500,000 miles; unverified).

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Air bags

25 complaint records12 crash reports
"NAR 05/21/2003 *MR THE AIR BAG FLASHED REPEATEDLY FOR 60 MILES. THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, HOWEVER THEY WERE UNABLE TO DETECT ANY PROBLEM CODES. *JB..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse air bags parts in the directory →

Speed control

22 complaint records5 crash reports
"THE GAS PEDAL BECAME STUCK THREE TIMES WHILE THE CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING, THE DEALER COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. *YH..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse speed control parts in the directory →

Suspension

14 complaint records
"BY CHECKING THE BRAKES IN THE CAR THE MECHANIC FOUNDED THAT THE BEARING ON THE LEFT REAR WHEEL IS BROKEN. THE CAR IS 1999 TOYOTA AVALON. *NM..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse suspension parts in the directory →

Federal defect investigations

Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.

InvestigationStatusComponentSubject
DP02004
opened Apr 2002
closed Jun 2002Engine And Engine CoolingENGINE SEIZURE

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
98V278000Electrical SystemVEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, MINI VANS AND PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A THEFT DETERRENT SYSTEMS (TDS) SUPPLIED BY AUDIOVOX CORPORATION AND DISTRIBUTED BY SOUTHEAST TOYOTA DISTRIBUTORS, INC.Normally free

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
T-SB-0043-14
Jan 2024
EquipmentOBSOLETE NOTICE January 22, 2024: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0057-18.
TSB003220
Aug 2023
Vehicle Speed ControlTSB: Replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) (see Figure 1) for most 1979 ?
T-SB-0057-18
May 2023
EquipmentTSB: The Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset is a feature that allows the registration of new keys when all master keys are lost. Once the system is reset, all previously registered keys will be erased.
TTT063620
Mar 2022
Back Over PreventionTT: Some Toyota vehicles installed with Toyota Complete Maintenance Care (TCMC) brake pads may exhibit a groan or squeak noise in various driving conditions
Toyota PRO19-02
Jan 2022
TiresPOL: This consolidated Tire Warranty Guide contains the complete warranty terms for all brands of ground and spare tires currently in use by Toyota. This information must be kept near the point of vehicle sale and be available to any customer that requests it.
Show 55 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
Toyota Safety Re
Mar 2021
Air BagsToyota Safety Recall and Service Campaign - Technician Certification Requirements
T-TT-0636-20 Rev
Mar 2021
Back Over PreventionTT: Some Toyota vehicles installed with Toyota Complete Maintenance Care (TCMC) brake pads may exhibit a groan or squeak noise in various driving conditions.
T-SB-0032-20 Rev
Feb 2021
EquipmentTSB: Replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) (see Figure 1) for most 1979 ?
T-TT-0636-20
Dec 2020
Service BrakesTT: Some Toyota vehicles installed with Toyota Complete Maintenance Care (TCMC) brake pads may exhibit a groan or squeak noise in various driving conditions.
T-SB-0304-17 Obs
Apr 2020
EquipmentTSB: OBSOLETE NOTICE April 07, 2020: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0032-20. Replacement Certification Labels and VIN Plates
T-SB-0032-20
Apr 2020
EquipmentTSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin Nos. PG021-88, PG015-89, PG0015-90, PG002-91, PG002-93, PG005-97, PG007-01, PG007-07, PG006-01, PG004-97, T-SB-0144-08, and T-SB-0304-17.
PG004-97-Obsolet
Aug 2018
EquipmentTechnical Service Bulletin: OBSOLETE NOTICE: July 31, 2018: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0304-17.
PG006-01-Obsolet
Aug 2018
EquipmentTechnical Service Bulletin: OBSOLETE NOTICE: July 31, 2018: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0304-17.
T-SB-0304-17_Rev
Jul 2018
EquipmentTSB: REVISION NOTICE July 31, 2018 Rev2: ? The Supersession Notice has been updated. January 11, 2018 Rev1: ? The Supersession Notice has been updated. Any previous printed versions of this bulletin should be discarded.
T-SB-0057-18
Jul 2018
EquipmentTSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin No. T-SB-0043-14. ? Applicability has been updated to include 2017 ? 2018 model year Toyota vehicles. Service Bulletin No.
T-SB-0304-17_Rev
Jan 2018
EquipmentTSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin Nos. PG021-88, PG015-89, PG0015-90, PG002-91, PG002-93, PG005-97, PG007-01, PG007-07, and T-SB-0144-08. Service Bulletin Nos.
T-SB-0144-08_Obs
Nov 2017
EquipmentTSB: OBSOLETE NOTICE November 21, 2017: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0304-17.
T-SB-0304-17
Oct 2017
StructureTSB: Vehicle replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) may be available from Toyota, provided the request meets one of the criteria listed in this Service Bulletin.
T-SB-0218-17_Rev
Jul 2017
EquipmentTSB: REVISION NOTICE July 20, 2017 Rev1: Applicability has been updated to exclude 2007 ? 2017 model year Avanza vehicles. Some hazardous material treatment and handling regulations at the state and local level define the pre-disposal deployment of airbag and pre-tensioner...
TSB018217
Jan 2017
Electrical SystemTSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes SB No. T-SB-0101-11. Applicability has been updated to include 2016 ? 2017 model year vehicles. Service Bulletin No. T-SB-0101-11 is Obsolete and any printed versions should be discarded.
Safety Recall an
Jul 2016
EquipmentUpdate on Technician Certification Requirements.
T-SB-0043-14 Rev
Jul 2015
EquipmentTSB: The Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset is a feature that allows the registration of new keys when all master keys are lost. Once the system is reset, all previously registered keys will be erased.
T-SB-0101-11 Rev
Apr 2015
Electrical SystemTSB: When servicing interior electrical switches and components, please note the precautions in this bulletin to avoid damaging electrical components and switches.
T-SB-0014-11 Rev
Oct 2014
Power TrainTSB: The purpose of this service bulletin is to provide information regarding the installation of the correct torque converter bolts during automatic transmission/transaxle assembly replacement.
T-SB-0134-14
Sep 2014
Power TrainTSB: The purpose of this bulletin is to provide precautions to follow when installing an automatic transmission/transaxle assembly to avoid MIL "ON" shifting issues and/or transmission damage.
T-SB-0043-14 Rev
Jul 2014
EquipmentTSB: The Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset is a feature that allows the registration of new keys when all master keys are lost. Once the system is reset, all previously registered keys will be erased.
T-SB-0043-14
Jul 2014
EquipmentTSB: The Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset is a feature that allows the registration of new keys when all master keys are lost. Once the system is reset, all previously registered keys will be erased.
T-TT-0010-10 Rev
May 2014
EngineTech Tip: Low battery voltage can contribute to a MIL "ON" condition for P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit) and/or P0340 (Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit) due to inconsistent rotational speed of the engine's crankshaft.
T-TT-0132-11
Feb 2014
Service BrakesA key part to maintain the proper function and safe operation of the vehicle's braking system is to perform a visual inspection when installing brake pads, calipers, and discs.
T-TT-0213-13
Jan 2014
Air BagsToyota vehicles are equipped with Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS), including various airbags and in some models, seat belt pre-tensioners, to help reduce the risk of injury in a collision.
T-SB-0185-13
Dec 2013
VisibilityThe following procedures are recommended during routine maintenance or in the event of a customer concern for wiper performance.
TS-BO030-01 Obso
Dec 2013
Visibility/WiperThis bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0185-13.
T-SB-0122-11 Rev
Nov 2013
EquipmentBeginning in 1998, Toyota introduced side airbags as optional equipment. Toyota does NOT recommend replacement of original seat covers with non-Toyota leather or other seat cover materials on vehicles due to the following: Seat covers NOT recommended by Toyota may affect side...
T-SB-0071-11 Rev
Oct 2013
Power TrainThe purpose of this service bulletin is to provide precautions to follow when installing an automatic transmission/transaxle assembly to avoid MIL ?ON,? shifting issues, and/or transmission damage.
T-SB-0141-13
Sep 2013
Parking BrakeSUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
TC13-019
Aug 2013
EquipmentSUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
T-SB-0054-13
Apr 2013
Engine And Engine CoolingSUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
T-PG006-00 Obsol
Apr 2013
EquipmentThis bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0054-13.
T-TT-0213-13
Jan 2013
Air BagsToyota vehicles are equipped with SRS, including various airbags and in some models, seat belt pre-tensioners, to help reduce the risk of injury in a collision.
TSB-0122-11
Sep 2011
SeatsTOYOTA: INFORMATION PROVIDED FOR REPLACING THE SEAT COVERS FOR VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SIDE AIRBAGS. *PE
T-SB-0122-11
Sep 2011
EquipmentSUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
01005
Aug 2005
Power TrainA541E TRANSMISSION SOLENOID IDENTIFICATION. *TT
3273
Mar 2005
Engine And Engine Cooling2003 AVALON REPAIR MANUAL CORRECTION VOL 1. DIAGNOSTICS - ENGINE. *TT '99 AVALON. 00400-RM656-U. *TT
4634
Mar 2005
Power TrainDIAGNOSTICS - AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE - REPAIR MANUAL CORRECTION. 00400-RM656-U. 1999 AVALON. TOYOTA. *TT
00804
Apr 2004
Engine And Engine CoolingMALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP ON 1MZ-FE ENGINE MISFIRE DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304, P0305 OR P0306. *TT
TC02002
Jan 2002
Engine And Engine CoolingSPECIAL POLICY ADJUSTMENT REGARDING VEHICLES EXPERIENCING ENGINE OIL GELLING OR SLUDGE. *TT
ST00901
Dec 2001
SteeringSUBJECT REGARDING STEERING RACK END NOISE. *TT
BO02601
Oct 2001
Seat BeltsSUBJECT REGARDING SHOULDER BELT ANCHOR TAPE SET. *YD
T-PG007-01
May 2001
EquipmentReplacement vin plates.
AX00101
Mar 2001
StructureTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN REGARDING RETRO-FIT INTERNAL TRUNK RELEASE KITS. *TT
360
Nov 2000
Power TrainAN INTERMITTENTLY INOPERATIVE SPEEDOMETER / TACHOMETER CONDITION. *TT
303
Sep 2000
Unknown Or OtherBRIEF INFORMATION PROGRAMMING THE KEYLESS ENTRY REMOTES. *TT
AX00700
Sep 2000
WheelsTHIS BULLETIN INTRODUCES A NEW ACCESSORY ALLOY WHEEL FOR CERTAIN VEHICLES. *JB
000523
May 2000
Vehicle Speed ControlSOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A ROUGH IDLE, AND OR A MIL ON CONDITION IN WHICH A SINGLE CYLINDER MISFIRE CODE OR CODES ARE PRESENT. *TT
SU00200
May 2000
Service BrakesTHIS BULLETIN PROVIDES SERVICE INFORMATION REGARDING THE REMOVAL OF THE ABS SPEED SENSOR PRIOR TO REMOVAL OF THE REAR AXLE AND REAR SUSPENSION. *MR
AX00400
Apr 2000
VisibilityINFORMATION REGARDING THE PORT INSTALLED RS3000 TVIP TRUNK AND DOOR COURTESY CONNECTIONS. *MJS
SU00100
Jan 2000
SuspensionSUBJECT REGARDING FRONT SUSPENSION SUPPORT NOISE. *TT
EG00100
Jan 2000
Engine And Engine CoolingSOME CALIFORNIA EMISSION SPECIFICATION VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A ROUGH IDLE AND OR A MIL ON CONDITION IN WHICH A SINGLE CYLINDER MISFIRE CODE OR CODES ARE PRESENT. *TT
EG01399
Dec 1999
Engine And Engine CoolingSOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A ROUGH IDLE, AND OR A MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT ON CONDITION IN WHICH A SINGLE CYLINDER MISFIRE CODE, OR CODES ARE PRESENT. *TT
AC00599
Nov 1999
EquipmentINFORMATION ON SYSTEM IMPROVEMENT FOR AUTO A/C AMPLIFIER. *TT

Showing 60 of 72 distinct bulletins on file for this vehicle.

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Watch the airbag warning light through a full key cycle.It should light on start and go out within seconds. A light that stays on, or never lights at all, means the system needs attention. Run the VIN for inflator recalls specifically.
  2. Test the throttle response and the cruise control on an open road.A surge, a hang in engine speed after lifting off, or cruise that will not set or cancel cleanly are the speed-control complaints on this vehicle.
  3. Find the roughest road nearby.Clunks over bumps, a droning hum that changes when the car leans, or a corner that sits low are this vehicle's suspension complaints. Wheel bearings and control arm bushings lead the parts list.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 1 recall campaign on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Toyota Avalon →