Used 2000 Avalon XLS

[CaliBoy831]

Hello, I’m trying to do some research for a friend who's looking at purchasing a used Avalon XLS with 265,451 for $3,630 from a well-known and respected public auction lot. I'm going to run the carfax in the morning to get an overall picture of the history of the car. The exterior is in great shape, with only minor dings and scratches. The interior shows wear and tear on steering wheel, shift knob and driver’s seat as to be expected. What are some of the known issues or problems associated with this year and model. At what point should the timing belt have been replaced? I'm not so concerned that it has 265k as it is a Toyota, and i have more than a few friends that have Toyota’s with 300k+. All cars seem to have problems that are just inherent to a specific model or year. I will have my mechanic run a comp test and scan the ecu to see what nasty little skeletons it might be hiding. Any advice, thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Trying to save a friend from possibly making a big mistake.

Thanks Jay,

[brainpause]

Have the mechanic take the valve covers off for a peek. These engines can sludge if oil isn't changed regularly.

The belts should be changed every 90000 miles.

Check strut on rear. It is a rear-heavy car.

3600 sounds a little high to me, unless this thing has good rubber, and checks out.

[MCX20-XLS]

It's a front heavy car. 60/40 weight balance.

As mentioned above, sludge issue, basic suspension components can fail early, sensors eventually go...