Need Advice on New Purchase

[Tigmd99]

Hey all,

I am seriously considering an '08 Avalon Ltd. before Toyota discontinues them. A few questions before i get out of your hair:

1. Is the JBL Synthesis system good? How does it compare to the Lexus Mark Levinson??

2. When Avalon first came out, there were some quality issues...have those issues resolved?? How do the new owners feel about the quality of the Avalon these days??

3. Anything to look for on my testdrive?? Weird noises or weird characteristics to avoid??

Thanks a million in advance....

Thai.

[MikeS.]

Thai, I had an 05 the problem I had was they had to inspect the steering column. No trouble with mine. I do think the rain sensing wiper had issues though.

The JBL sounds great, I've had several compliments. I've never heard the Lexus though.

Here in the mid Atlantic you CAN get them below invoice so shop around. Look at www.fitzmall.com and you'll see some good prices.

[jimhuey]

If you are considering getting the nav system, I suggest you go garmin or some good system. With the $2000 you save, the next 40 times you take a dump, wipe with a $50.00 bill and you will get more for your money.

[Tigmd99]

But, i read that if you do not get the NAVI, then you're stuck with a constant blue screen that can be distracting.

[MikeS.]

The NAV system may not be the best but once you get used to it it's OK. I like having it better then the plain screen.

[Jim08]

.... then turn the screen off if it gets distracting

[Tigmd99]

Anyone else had a chance to compare Avalon JBL with Mark Levinson of Lexus (example, ES350)??

[CAPTMARK]

JBL systems sounds great- Never had an issue with the blue screen- you can turn it off if you desire.

[Tom in Tacoma]

I have been an audiophile with a simple budget limitation for over 35-years now. I love the JBL system! The sound stage is impressive as is the sound reproduction. I can listen to it at loud volume for long periods without ear fatigue yet it has the dynamic range capability to play classical music accurately.

I added an ipod adapter to mine (the '07 didn't come with it standard) and really enjoy it. While I haven't heard the Mark Levinson system I can say that if you were to buy the Avalon you'll more than likely stop thinking about the 'what if'.

[TrailDust]

Originally Posted by Tigmd99

3. Anything to look for on my testdrive?? Weird noises or weird characteristics to avoid??

Thanks a million in advance....

Thai.

My only advice, which I'd give regarding any car, is if you do purchase an Avalon to take the vehicle on a "check drive" before accepting it and paying for it. That's the time to get issues like air leaks in door seals (which happened with my Avalon), paint scratches, alignment issues, etc. Too often people make the mistake of not checking the actual vehicle they're paying for. Best of luck!

TrailDust

[benalexe]

I love the JBL on my 2005.

In terms of the nav. Honestly... the only real issue with it is entering the street name etc.... once it is programed works great. I also have a tomtom and I hate it compared to the avalon, with the exception of the above.