Quote:
Originally Posted by djswizz
Second issue, I bought the car knowing the dash lights were out (all I can see is the speedometer and what gear I am in on the dash). The radio, other buttons are ok. I know this requires removing the dashboard completely but was wondering if any of you have done this or had this issue? If so, where can I get the bulbs and do you have a writeup explaining how to remove the dash?
Third issue, I was reading Consumer Reports reliability record on this car (98) and it indicates this year had issues with suspension. I know this because my car makes noises going over bumps on the road. Time for new struts/shocks? If so, what kind do you recommend?
Fourth, is there a writeup or howto on how to replace the incabin air filter or where it's located?
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Congrats on your purchase. Avalons are very nice cars, and I'm sure that you'll be happy once these pesky issues are resolved.
I've never been in an Avalon, but here are some pointers that hopefully will help. You shouldn't have to take apart your whole dash for the lights.
For the dash lights: First make note of the lights that are burned out. (There are probably 4-10 actual lights in the cluster.
In most newer Toyotas, the dash/speedometer has a black surround that has two screws in the top. You'll have to hold the screwdriver upside down to remove them. Once you remove the two screws and pull the black surround out, you should have direct access to the instrument cluster screws. There are probably 4 or 5 screws that you'll have to remove around the outside of the instrument cluster. Be very careful not to let the screws fall into the dash- you'll have a heck of a time getting them back.
Once you unscrew all the screws, pull the cluster out carefully, and unplug the connectors. Take the cluster, turn it over, and you should be able to pull out the bulbs. They should be tiny bulbs with little green covers on them (or whatever color your gauges are). You can't buy the bulbs with the covers from a parts store- the only place that sells them are Toyota dealers- but they usually aren't expensive (About $2/bulb). Most dealers have them in stock, so you shouldn't have to special order them. (You can try peeling off the covers and putting them back on bulbs that you buy at a parts store- but most of the green covers will crack and peel.)
Find out how many you need, buy some from your local dealer, and replace them. (If you take your Avalon to the dealer- make sure you plug the instrument cluster back in during the trip).
Replace the bulbs, screw the cluster back in, and replace the black surround. DONE.
For the 3rd issue, If I remember right, it wasn't the struts that make the noise, it was the strut plates in the front. I'm not very familiar with it though, so you'll have to find more out from others on this board or a mechanic.
4th- Are you sure that you have an in-cabin air filter? I didn't think that Toyota put them in until the 2000 model year. If you do have one, odds are it's hidden behind the glove box. I'd call the dealer first to find out if you have one before trying to take it apart.
New to forum, have several questions
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