EDIT: BOUGHT....Buying an Avalon today, please help...

[tah]

Long-time Toyota owner, first time considering an Avalon.

I'm going to look at a 96 Avalon XLS today and have no knowledge of potential trouble spots. Things that you've told yourself you'd DEFINATELY take a lang hard look at if you were ever buying again.

It's a 96 with 211K and the price is really good. One owner with all maintenance records. Maintenance done at local Toyota dealer.

I know the usual, all fluids, uneven tire wear, no hesitation in the tranny going into reverse or drive, relatively smooth shifting (automatic) etc. Not my first used car rodeo but I am certainly looking for any guidance you may have to offer........

Any and all help is appreciated...........Thanks!

[tah]

Well I didn't give you guys much time to respond, but I just didn't have much time. I bought the car as it seems VERY solid mechanically and mostly needs cosmetic help. Motor tranny and steering are smooth as butter? Needs new switch and bezel assembly for driver's door power window/lock cluster, new wood panel for console (around shifter), new rear door outside handle assembly, headlights buffed, power antenna assembly is completely gone (notor and all) and radio is shit! Also needs headliner reglued. All this I can get done cheap or off eBay and turn the wrenches myself.

Has the A pillar wind noise......anyone got an aftermarket fix for this?

Only one small mechanical concern. The front end has a little wiggle/shimmy under hard braking. Front tires are mismatched and pretty worn so I'll probably start there first.]

Just wanted other's experience as to what "could" be causing this.

Thanks for any help.........

[TedL]

Shimmy on braking is warped rotors. Don't bother trying to cut them. They'll only be thinner and warp faster. New can be had for 30-35 apiece.

[tah]

Originally Posted by TedL

Shimmy on braking is warped rotors.

Always? 100% every time?

Thanks!

[TedL]

Absolutely. If I'm wrong, I'll refund every cent you paid me.

[tah]

Don't see how I could possibly pass up a screaming deal like that

[fourwheeler]

Other trouble spots are struts, rack & pinion leaks, and the usual suspension parts needing replacement. Also change the oil frequently and I would suggest using a semi-synthetic or full synthetic. These engines were known for sludging up if the oil was not regularly changed. Other than that, these cars are solid with the occasional maintenance need. FYI, oxygen sensors and spark plugs should be replaced with OEM brands.

[TierOneSupplier]

Congratulations on your purchase! Sorry to bring back a thread after a couple of weeks, but wanted to suggest you replace the PCV valve unless you're certain it's been changed recently.