[91boz]

I just got me a 2007 Avalon XLS and would like to know your expertise on what service manual besides Chiltons or Haynes are best for this car? Just checking to see what everyone is using.I used to buy all my manuals on cd or dvd from an Ebay source but noticed that no one has any listing for factory manuals on cd. How are the online sources like RepairSurge $19.95 for one year? Thanks in advance!

 

[tbdude]

My experience is to have the paper Haynes manual on hand for every vehicle (since they are relatively cheap and accurate), in addition to the Toyota Owner's Manual and Warranty & Maintenance Guide (both available free downloads on the Toyota web site).

If there is a discrepancy between Haynes and the Toyota manuals (like required maintenance schedule), I would defer to the Toyota printed listing as the authority over the Haynes.

If you want the factory service manual, it's available online, via subscription at the Toyota Information System (TIS).

http://toyota.custhelp.com/app/answ...a-repair-information-and-publications-online?

 

[91boz]

Thanks TBDude!

 

[91boz]

Anyone have any experience using "Repair Surge"? $19.95 for one year access.
http://www.repairsurge.com/manual/Toyota/Avalon/2007/

 

[Mike Murrell]

Anyone have any experience using "Repair Surge"? $19.95 for one year access.
http://www.repairsurge.com/manual/Toyota/Avalon/2007/

There is another thread(recent) where I see a person using repairsurge.

I spent a little time googling it and came away thinking it might be like all of the other $19.95 per yr. diy services - incomplete.

I have an alldatadiy.com subscription. It has a lot of info, but is also missing a lot of info.

There is also a product called mitchell1 diy. I do not have it, but found the following on their web site:

WHAT'S NOT INSIDE !

Before purchasing, please take a moment to read what is not currently covered in Mitchell 1 DIY. This product is designed for the "Car Savvy" auto enthusiast and deals only with the mechanical repair and service. The following subjects are among those currently not aligned with the intended use of this product and are therefore NOT covered:
Body & Collision Repairs, Headlight / Tail Light Replacement. Windows & Regulators. Door Panels, Locks & Latches. Mirrors, Glass, Wipers, Filters R & I, Spark Plugs and Wires R & I, Radiators & Thermostats R & I, Non-Standard Parts.


You have to be kidding! These are things a diy mechanic would want?

The real deal is at:

http://techinfo.toyota.com

 

[tbdude]

If you really need the full service manual info, I've seen paper sets on eBay for about $200. If you are doing major rebuild or something, Then it may be worth it to have it on hand.

For 99% of what most DIYers need I think the Haynes manual works, plus you can get a lot of detailed info by asking questions here, searching old threads, or using Google to find a YouTube video. Or at least that's my experience.

Toyota offers a two-day access to the online manuals (see link above) for $15. If there is something you absolutely have to read in the factory manual, that's another option, but most of the time somebody can give you the same info here if you can be patient. :smile:

 

[Mike Murrell]

Hardcopy FSMs for Avalon in the $200 or < range are for 1st/2nd only [email protected];en. Presently on ebay, there is only one hardcopy set for 3rd gen Avalon - 2011 - 3 vol set for $800 + $22 ship:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/2011-Toyota...ash=item51a63c24a4:g:eIYAAOxygj5ShAFe&vxp=mtr

helminc.com has that same set for $685 + ship

Hardcopy FSM at Helms ends at 2012(wiring only). For 2011 and back(maybe) you might be able to get hardcopy, but as you can see, you are going to pay. The best value is at:

http://techinfo.toypta.com

 

[91boz]

OK thanks for the advise. Now I know what my options are for my Avalon. I will pick up a Haynes. Makes sense since most of the basic repairs should be covered.
All of my other cars have factory manuals. 95 Acura Legend, Helms paper and Hyundai Elantra XD, factory download (free from factory). Even with these I find that your best friend are the forums and Google search.
Thanks again guys great to be back on this forum!

 

[tbdude]

Hardcopy FSMs for Avalon in the $200 or < range are for 1st/2nd only gen. Presently on ebay, there is only one hardcopy set for 3rd gen Avalon - 2011 - 3 vol set for $800 + $22 ship:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/2011-Toyota...ash=item51a63c24a4:g:eIYAAOxygj5ShAFe&vxp=mtr

helminc.com has that same set for $685 + ship

Hardcopy FSM at Helms ends at 2012(wiring only). For 2011 and back(maybe) you might be able to get hardcopy, but as you can see, you are going to pay. The best value is at:

http://techinfo.toypta.com

Didn't realize that the 3rd Gen manuals were that expensive. I did see a three-volume for the 2009 model...on ebay... used....for $213

http://www.ebay.com/itm/2009-Toyota...ash=item3ab174d87c:g:lQUAAOSwQPlV7zyV&vxp=mtr

But I agree, unless you're running a shop and doing a lot of 3rd Gen service, it's probably wiser to go to the Toyota tech info web site, pay as you go, when you need it.

FYI - I've bought "full factory service manuals" for several cars that I've owned in the past...usually for $100 or so on ebay...used.

RARELY, have I needed them to do any service work. But...some people just like having that info at hand...and I am one of them. :smile: