Last updated: 2026-07-26

2019 Toyota Avalon
RELIABILITY SCORE: 69/100 (GOOD)

2019 Toyota Avalon Reliability Report

The 2019 Toyota Avalon scores 69/100 ("Good"). With 4 recalls and 68 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

4

Complaints

68

Complaint Rate

24.5per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$463

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,300–$2,400

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity53/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs80/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact71/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity79/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

  • FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (15)
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (15)
  • POWER TRAIN (9)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Redesign Year

2019 is the first model year of the Fifth generation (XX50).

  • First-year models may have unresolved issues from the new design.
  • Redesigned for the 2019 model year.
  • Refreshed in 2022.
  • 5th generation Avalon (US).

What this means for buyers

First-year models carry more risk — early production issues are common. Consider waiting for the second year if reliability is a priority.

Compare 2019 pricing and recall counts against 2020+ before deciding.

2019: Fifth generation (XX50) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2019 Toyota Avalon?

At 69/100, the 2019 Toyota Avalon lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. As a first-year redesign, early-adopter issues are common.

Its complaint rate of 24.5 per 10,000 vehicles sold runs above the Sedan segment average of 19. The most common reports involve electrical system (15).

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (15). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2020 Toyota Avalon, which scored 6 points higher. See also the 2018 Toyota Avalon for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • +Acceptable reliability score
  • +$127 cheaper to maintain than avg fullsize cars
  • +Low major repair risk (13%)

Cons

  • Moderate recall count
  • Above-average complaint rate for Sedan
  • FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM: Malfunctioning fuel pumps (15 complaints)

Compare 2019 Toyota Avalon With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 4 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (15)
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (15)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

4

recalls on record

A moderate 4 recalls are on file for the 2019 Toyota Avalon. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

24.5

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 19

LowAvgHigh
Moderate

Safety Incidents

4

Crashes

0

Fires

5

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2019 Toyota Avalon Recall Details

4 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Toyota Avalon. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

20V6820002020-11-04

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 4Runner, 2019-2020 Avalon, 2019 Corolla Hatchback, 2017-2019 Highlander, 2018-2020 Camry, 2020 Corolla, 2018-2019 Land Cruiser, 2017-2020 Tacoma, 2019-2020 RAV4, 2019-2020 Sequoia, 2017-2020 Sienna, 2019-2020 Tundra, 2018-2020 Lexus ES350, 2017 Lexus GS200t, 2017-2019 Lexus GS350, 2019 Lexus GS300, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500h, 2019-2020 Lexus LS500, 2018-2019 Lexus GX460, 2017 Lexus IS200t, 2019 Lexus IS300, 2019 Lexus IS350, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500, 2018 Lexus LS500, 2019 Lexus LS500h, 2018-2019 Lexus LX570, 2017 Lexus RC200t, 2019 Lexus RC300, RC350, 2017 and 2019-2020 Lexus RX350, 2018-2020 RX350L, 2019 Lexus UX200, 2018-2019 Lexus NX300 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.

Consequence

If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump assembly with an improved one, free of charge. Owners of specific models were notified that remedy parts were available starting January 21, 2021. Owners of other models will be notified as remedy parts become available. Remedy parts should be available for all affected vehicles by late March 2021. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-012. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA02. Lexus' number for this recall is 20LA01.

20V0120002020-01-13

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) recalled certain 2018-2019 4Runner, Highlander, Camry, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma and Tundra, and Lexus RC 300, RC 350, GS 350, GX 460, IS 300, LC 500, LS 500, LX 570, RX 350L, and 2019 Toyota Avalon and Corolla, and certain Lexus NX 300, and ES 350 vehicles on January 13, 2020. On March 4, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include certain 2014-2015 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser, 2018 Avalon, Corolla, 2014 FJ Cruiser, 2017 Sienna and Lexus 2018 ES 350, 2018-2019 GS 300, 2013-2014 GS350, 2014-2015 GX 460, IS 350 and LX 570, 2014 IS F, 2018-2019 IS 350, LC 500H and LS 500H, 2013-2015 LS 460, 2015 NX 200T and RC350, 2017 RC 200T and RX 350. Toyota also removed the 2018-2019 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser and 2018-2019 Lexus GX 460 and LX 570 and 2019 NX300 from inclusion in this recall. On March 19, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include 2015 Lexus GS350 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.

Consequence

If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began May 4, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 20TB02 and 20TA02 for Toyota vehicles and 20LB01 and 20LA01 for Lexus vehicles.

19V2440002019-03-27

EQUIPMENT

Gulf States Toyota (GST) is recalling certain 2019 C-HR, 4Runner, Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Highlander, Land Cruiser, Prius, RAV4, Sequoia, Tacoma, Sienna, Tundra and Yaris vehicles. The text on the load capacity label may become illegible. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."

Consequence

If the driver cannot read the label, they may unknowingly overload the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

GST will notify owners, and dealers will provide corrected load carrying capacity modification labels, free of charge. The recall began May 24, 2019. Owners may contact GST customer service at 1-800-444-1074. GST's number for this recall is 19R1.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2019 Toyota Avalon? Check its history first

Every 2019 Toyota Avalon has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2019 Toyota Avalon NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 10.5%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Toyota AvalonRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$463

vs $590 avg for fullsize cars

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.4

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

13%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

Avalon
$463
Category Avg
$590
All Vehicles
$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

25–26 MPG

Running cost: $2,750–$2,850/yr

Fuel + repair

22 city / 31–32 hwy MPG

Hybrid

43–44 MPG

Running cost: $1,800–$1,850/yr

Fuel + repair

43 city / 43–44 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2019 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
Avalon XLE 3.5L 6-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)223226$2,300
Avalon 3.5L 6-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)223125$2,400
Hybrid trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
Avalon Hybrid XLE 2.5L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (AV-S6)434444$1,350
Avalon Hybrid 2.5L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (AV-S6)434343$1,400

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Toyota Avalon.

  • Check for fuel pump recall completion and inspect for stalling issues

  • Test climate control panel for functionality

  • Inspect for high-pitched noise from speakers at startup

  • Test transmission for jerking or hard shifting at low speeds

  • Verify blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert systems are functioning

  • Check for any warning lights or error messages on the dashboard

  • Inspect for any signs of water leaks or mildew smell in the interior

2019 Toyota Avalon Common Problems by Component

68 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

15
15
9
13
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (15)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (15)POWER TRAIN (9)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5)FUEL SYSTEM (4)EXTERIOR LIGHTING (3)LANE DEPARTURE (2)VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2)Other (13)

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

15 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2019 Toyota Avalon frequently report issues with the fuel propulsion system, particularly related to malfunctioning fuel pumps. Common symptoms include stalling while driving, failure to start, and an unusual continuous running of the fuel pump even when the vehicle is turned off. Complaints often mention these issues occurring at various mileages, with some vehicles having low mileage around 4,800 to 6,240 miles. Safety implications are notable, as two complaints involve crashes related to unexpected acceleration and stalling. Additionally, multiple owners describe a strong gasoline odor after refueling, suggesting potential fuel leaks or seal issues.

15 complaints total2 crashes

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

15 complaints

Owners report several electrical system issues with the 2019 Toyota Avalon, primarily involving the Telematics / Data Communication Module (DCM) and various warning systems. Complaints frequently mention DCM failures leading to severe battery drain, loss of emergency SOS functionality, and inoperability of connected features like Remote Connect. High-pitched noises from the speakers and malfunctioning climate control panels are also noted. Issues often occur around 40,000 to 77,000 miles, with some reports indicating problems soon after purchase. Safety implications include potential loss of emergency communication and impaired driver awareness due to malfunctioning warning systems, such as blind spot monitoring and pre-collision alerts. These patterns suggest prospective buyers should be aware of potential costs and safety risks associated with these electrical issues.

15 complaints total

POWER TRAIN

9 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Toyota Avalon frequently report issues with the UA80 transmission, with symptoms including erratic and hard shifting, jerking, and grinding noises, particularly at low speeds. Complaints often mention transmission hesitation and stalling, with one owner experiencing a stall that nearly resulted in a collision. These problems typically arise after a few years of ownership, with some reports noting issues around 75,000 miles. Safety concerns are highlighted in instances where the vehicle unexpectedly stalls or fails to accelerate as expected, posing potential risks in traffic situations. Buyers should be aware of these recurring transmission issues and the associated repair costs, which can be significant.

9 complaints total
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

5 complaints

Owners report several issues with the 2019 Toyota Avalon, particularly concerning the vehicle's electronic systems and air quality. A recurring problem involves the Bird's Eye system and backup camera, which display a "black screen" when reversing or using the forward camera, especially under adverse weather conditions like snow or rain. Additionally, multiple owners describe malfunction alerts for the blind spot monitoring and cross-traffic alert systems, often occurring in cold or wet conditions, with no resolution from dealerships. Another common complaint is a persistent, unpleasant odor from the air ducts when the AC is set to recycle cabin air, noted around 35,000 miles. These issues, particularly those affecting visibility and vehicle alerts, may have safety implications, as they compromise driver awareness and response capabilities.

5 complaints total
FUEL SYSTEM (4 complaints)

FUEL SYSTEM

4 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Toyota Avalon frequently report issues related to a fuel system recall, with multiple complaints indicating delays in recall repairs due to parts unavailability. Common symptoms described include vehicle stalling without warning and rough running at various speeds, sometimes accompanied by the check engine light. These issues are reported at mileage ranges from 10,000 to 40,000 miles. While no crashes or fires are mentioned, the stalling and hesitation while driving could pose safety risks. Used car buyers should be aware of these potential issues and check the recall status and repair completion for this model year.

4 complaints total
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (3 complaints)

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

3 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Toyota Avalon frequently report issues with the vehicle's headlights, specifically noting inadequate illumination when driving in low light or total darkness. Complaints describe the low beam headlights as failing to project far enough to detect pedestrians or parked vehicles, especially on uneven roads, with one owner mentioning a projection limited to approximately 1.5 car lengths. Another common issue involves headlight discoloration, impairing nighttime visibility. These problems are noted at mileages as low as 4,500 and up to 14,000 miles. Safety implications are evident as owners express concerns about reduced visibility, which could pose a risk while driving at night.

3 complaints total
LANE DEPARTURE (2 complaints)

LANE DEPARTURE

2 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Toyota Avalon report issues related to the blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert systems. Complaints frequently mention malfunction alerts for these systems, with specific references to error codes C1AB4 and C1AB5. Some owners indicate that the sensors are not positioned correctly, leading to persistent problems. A service bulletin exists for this issue, but owners report mixed experiences with dealership support, with some being required to pay for repairs out of pocket. These issues are reported without specific mileage ranges, and no direct safety incidents such as crashes or loss of control are mentioned in the complaints.

2 complaints total
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Toyota Avalon report issues with the vehicle's adaptive cruise control system. Commonly described symptoms include the cruise control failing to disengage when the brake pedal is pressed, and the car braking suddenly and unexpectedly while driving with the adaptive cruise control engaged. These incidents occur both on highways and city streets. One owner reports a collision with a truck due to the system's failure to disengage, while another mentions multiple instances of unexpected braking. There is no specific mileage range reported, but the incidents are noted over a span of three years. These issues may have safety implications, including potential collisions or loss of vehicle control.

2 complaints total
SUSPENSION (2 complaints)

SUSPENSION

2 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Toyota Avalon report issues with the suspension, specifically noting problems with vehicle stability while driving. Complaints frequently mention the car rolling or feeling unstable when cornering on uneven or bumpy roads, with one owner attributing improved performance to replacing the original tires. Another common issue described is the vehicle wandering or drifting on freeway surfaces, even after a wheel alignment check confirmed alignment was within specifications. These stability issues are noted at low mileage, as one complaint involves a new vehicle. While no crashes or loss of control are reported, the described wandering and rolling could potentially impact safety.

2 complaints total
ENGINE (2 complaints)

ENGINE

2 complaints

Owners report two distinct engine-related issues with the 2019 Toyota Avalon. One complaint describes excessive oil consumption in a newly purchased Avalon XLE with a V6 engine, requiring the addition of two quarts of oil by 2,000 miles and triggering a "low oil" light at 3,100 miles. Another issue involves the hybrid model's keyless ignition system, where the car can remain silently on when parked, potentially leading the engine to start unexpectedly to recharge the battery, posing a risk of carbon monoxide buildup in enclosed spaces like garages. Safety implications are noted in the hybrid model, with the potential for carbon monoxide exposure due to the engine starting without warning, and the lack of an immediate software fix for existing vehicles.

2 complaints total

When Do 2019 Toyota Avalon Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

4,800–6,240 milesFuel system failures
40,000–77,000 milesElectrical system failures
75,000 milesTransmission issues

Best & Worst Toyota Avalon Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Toyota Avalon Years to Buy

The best Toyota Avalon year is 2022 with a reliability score of 80/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2018 (77/100) and 2021 (76/100).

Toyota Avalon Years to Avoid

The worst Toyota Avalon year is 2019 with a score of 69/100, primarily due to electrical system (15) issues.

69
Good

2019

(Current Model)

4Recalls
68Complaints

Toyota Avalon Reliability Score Trend

Toyota Avalon reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 75/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Toyota Avalon reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201877/100Good
201969/100Good
202075/100Good
202176/100Good
202280/100Excellent

Toyota Avalon Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202280/100+4Excellent08
202176/100+1Good221
202075/100+6Good310
2019(selected)69/100-8Good468
201877/100Good224

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2019 Toyota Avalon reliable?
The 2019 Toyota Avalon has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 69/100. It is reasonably reliable with 4 recalls and 68 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Toyota Avalon?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2019 Toyota Avalon include: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (15 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (15 complaints), POWER TRAIN (9 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5 complaints), FUEL SYSTEM (4 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2019 Toyota Avalon have?
The 2019 Toyota Avalon has 4 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2019 Toyota Avalon expensive to maintain?
The 2019 Toyota Avalon has estimated annual repair costs of $463/year, which is $127 less than the fullsize cars average of $590. With a reliability score of 69/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2019 Toyota Avalon without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

1

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

4

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

  • 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
  • 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
  • 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
  • 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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