2005 Toyota Avalon considering to buy

[jimstewa1]

I am considering buying a 2005 avalon. I was hoping that you guys could help me with some information on the car. i was wondering if there were any regular known problems at certain mile marks, whether it has a timing belt or chain, if it is non interference motor. and if you own one how you would rate the vehicle. and is there a better year for the avalon i should consider like the gen before, my mom has a 2002 that i really like driving and seems like a solid car.

i currently drive a 97 camry and in the market for something new.

Thanks in advance for all your help and sharing your knowledge and opinion with me.

[Black Knight]

I am new to a 2006 Avalon. Check my recent post "trunk springs". Apparently not too many people had the problem I did, and my problem may have been caused by a careless previous owner. Not a real big problem anyway - and it is now resolved.

I am not sure if it is a non-interference engine but I do know it has a timing chain.

[boosted-fc3s]

I believe I read somewhere a while ago that the only toyota interference engines were in older toyotas I'm 90% sure the 3.5L in the Avvy is a non-interference engine design.

This is a list a found a while ago of the interference motors:

1986-95 1.5L Tercel

1981-83 2.2L Pickup

1984-87 2.4L Pickup

1982-88 2.8L Celica Cressida

1987-94 3.0L 4-Runner

[Tom in Tacoma]

As long as the car's in good condition and the price is right - the only thing I'd recommend is to verify (by its VIN) that all of the recalls have been performed. There have been quite a few but as long as they've been completed should pose no problem.

[grandpapa]

I too owned a 97 Camry once. From Camry to Avalon, big different. Avalon is a class or two above the Camry. You will notice that right away when closing the door (although is not a german like but way better then the camry for sure).
Overall you will like the Avalon more for sure. I say go for it as long as you find a good one. The fact is most used Avalon are owned by older folks so usually has lower mile and in pretty good condition. Try to find one will good history and service record you should be ok. Good luck

[rmike1991]

I've had my 05 Avalon Limited for 2 years now and I enjoy every day driving it. It has enough power, room for the family and the seats are SO comfortable! I absolutely hate bucket seats especially when going on the long trips. Also the turning radius is awesome.
I haven't had any problems with my Avalon. Of course you can find some reviews on the WEB saying something like "this is my last Toyota... I will never buy it again...". But you can also find the same things for Nissan, Mazda etc. There are always people who are not satisfied with whatever they have or just didn't have any luck with the car. I'd say buy it if you're thinking about it. You'll love it. Good luck.

[pmesfun]

The 2gr-fe has a timing chain, and the water pump is driven by the external belt.

[fosman77]

We have a 2006 Limited that we purchased new, it has 37,000 miles and they have replaced the steering shaft twice, it is on a tsb. I am worried that it will start making noises again. other than that it has been a good car.

[arabianobsession]

Originally Posted by pmesfun

The 2gr-fe has a timing chain, and the water pump is driven by the external belt. I am also pretty sure that it is an interference motor.

Non-interference