Last updated: 2026-07-26

2021 Toyota Avalon
RELIABILITY SCORE: 76/100 (GOOD)

2021 Toyota Avalon Reliability Report

The 2021 Toyota Avalon scores 76/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 21 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

2

Complaints

21

Complaint Rate

11.5per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$463

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,150–$2,400

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity68/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs80/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact80/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity82/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

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

Top Issues to Watch

  • AIR BAGS (12)
  • VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (3)
  • BACK OVER PREVENTION (1)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Redesign (Year 3)

2021 is year 3 of the Fifth generation (XX50).

  • Redesigned for the 2019 model year.
  • Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
  • A refresh arrives in 2022.
  • 5th generation Avalon (US).

What this means for buyers

Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.

2019: Fifth generation (XX50) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2021: This Model Year

2021 is year 3 of the Fifth generation (XX50).

2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2021 Toyota Avalon?

At 76/100, the 2021 Toyota Avalon lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2021 is year 3 of the Fifth generation (XX50).

Owners log 21 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to air bags and air bags (12). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2022 Toyota Avalon, which scored 4 points higher. See also the 2020 Toyota Avalon for an earlier comparison.

Pros

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

Cons

  • AIR BAGS issues reported (12 complaints)
  • VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL issues reported (3 complaints)

Compare 2021 Toyota Avalon With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 2 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • AIR BAGS (12)
  • VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (3)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

2

recalls on record

The 2021 Toyota Avalon carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

11.5

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 16.7

LowAvgHigh
Moderate

Safety Incidents

1

Crashes

0

Fires

0

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

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

2021 Toyota Avalon Recall Details

2 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Toyota Avalon. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

23V8650002023-12-20

AIR BAGS

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.

Consequence

An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed in February 2024. Some final remedy owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. Letters will continue to be mailed in phases through January 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.

20V7340002020-11-25

AIR BAGS, STEERING

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Toyota Avalon and 2020 Avalon Hybrid, RAV4, and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles. Breakaway pins within the steering column, designed to absorb energy and reduce injury during a crash, could have been damaged during production, possibly affecting the performance of the driver's air bag in the event of a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Consequence

In the event of a crash, an air bag that does not perform as designed can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy

Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering column, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TB17/20TA17.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2021 Toyota Avalon? Check its history first

Every 2021 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

2021 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, Rear Seat)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 (N/A)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

25–28 MPG

Running cost: $2,600–$2,850/yr

Fuel + repair

21–25 city / 30–34 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 2021 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
Avalon AWD 2.5L 4-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)253428$2,150
Avalon XLE 3.5L 6-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)223226$2,300
Avalon 3.5L 6-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)223125$2,400
Avalon TRD 3.5L 6-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)213025$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 2021 Toyota Avalon.

  • Check for unresolved airbag recall and verify if parts are available for repair

  • Inspect cruise control functionality and check for any dashboard warning lights

  • Test vehicle acceleration and ensure there are no stalling issues at low mileage

  • Examine tires for tread separation or splitting, especially if original equipment

  • Verify that all warning signals, especially rear cross traffic alerts, are audible and functional

2021 Toyota Avalon Common Problems by Component

21 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

12
3
AIR BAGS (12)VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (3)BACK OVER PREVENTION (1)SERVICE BRAKES (1)ENGINE (1)POWER TRAIN (1)TIRES (1)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1)

AIR BAGS

12 complaints

Owners of the 2021 Toyota Avalon frequently report issues related to unresolved airbag recalls, specifically concerning the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensors in the front passenger seat. Complaints commonly mention that the airbag warning light illuminates intermittently and that the sensors fail to register passengers, potentially preventing airbag deployment. These issues are associated with recall notices issued in December 2023, with multiple owners expressing frustration over the lack of available parts for repairs even as late as August 2025. The unresolved nature of these defects raises safety implications, particularly regarding passenger protection in the event of a crash. This information may be pertinent for used car buyers considering this model, as it highlights ongoing safety concerns and potential repair delays.

12 complaints total

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

3 complaints

Owners of the 2021 Toyota Avalon report issues related to vehicle speed control, with the most common failure involving cruise control malfunctioning. Symptoms frequently include the cruise control ceasing to operate, accompanied by dashboard warning lights, and a message indicating that radar control is unavailable. One owner notes a failure to accelerate and stalling at around 15,000 miles, without any warning lights. Safety implications such as crashes or loss of control are not mentioned in these complaints. Buyers should be aware that resolving these issues may involve replacing components like the brake switch or wiring harness, as indicated by one owner's repair experience.

3 complaints total

BACK OVER PREVENTION

1 complaint
2022-01-26

The Rear Cross Traffic Warning signal is installed behind rear head rest, which muffles the alert sound to barely audible, even when setting is on high. Vanandergriff Toyota dealership in Arlington, Tx., verified this information to me after bringing my car in four times for service because I was not being warned of persons and vehicles passing behind me. I've called Toyota's home office and told nothing can be done, as it was installed this way, although I am still asking they remove muffling material or change location of warning equipment. It is very dangerous, as persons and cars are not always visible due to parking location or blind spots. This should be a recall item. All other warning signals on front of car work properly. I was told by company representative to just use drive-through parking! Consumer contacted Toyota customer service and the dealership in Arlington, Tx. where it was purchased. Consumer was told nothing can be done to fix the problem.

SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint
2021-01-13

ON EVERY AVALON 2021 I HAVE DRIVEN OR THE DEALERSHIP HAS DRIVEN THERE IS A THUNK WHEN BRAKING. EVERY CAR EVERY TIME. A TECH CASE WAS OPENED AT WESLEY CHAPEL TOYOTA AND TOYOTA OF TAMPA BAY 01- 21-2021 NEW CAR WAS PURCHASED 01-13-2021

ENGINE (1 complaints)

ENGINE

1 complaint
2024-12-01

While driving our 2021 Avalon on a busy interstate,the engine failed on us unexpectantly. This cathostrophic failure without warning startled my finance and ruined xmas holidays. The car was towed to a local Toyota dealership who diagnosed the issue as low oil pressure which prevented oil reaching the top engine ultimately collapsing the rocker arm. Oddly enough the technician shared it was not low on oil nor were there any signs of le. We were informed the engine must be replaced. We purchased the vehicle with 56K and just hit 69K. We've been responsible with routine maintenance and have service reports to support services performed from the original owner and us. When contacting Toyota to report the issue, the advocates and resolution team did not offer any service campaigns or good will programs to cover any out of pocket expenses. They acted as if we should hold the dealership who sold us the car liable ignoring any possibility of a defective engine. There is NO good reason why any engine with only 69k miles should fail this sudden. There are similar reports of class action suits currently against Toyota on other engines and they ignore all accounts of owning any portion of the repair due to the car not being sold from a Toyota dealership and being over the 60k power train warranty. Regardless of the warranty the manufacturer name is on the vehicle and all accounts of this issue are indicators of a defect. Our voices may have not be strong enough for them to make us whole at this moment. Not only was this a dangerous situation for my family, but the expenses to replace the engine in such a short time is ridiculous. A company with such a high reputation not to mention high revenue and EBITA should not ignore the voice of the customer. My hope is other customers unite and voice any similar concern similar to ours. This experience has changed my mind how much I value Toyota.There are core principles & expectations car manufacturers should stand by.

POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

1 complaint
2021-11-18

The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Avalon. The contact stated while diving approximately 50 MPH, the engine and transmission warning lights illuminated. The contact also stated that the windshield had detached from the frame. The contact stated that the rear doors were failing to close correctly. The contact stated the vehicle would roll with the brake pedal depressed before coming to a stop. While driving approximately 75 MPH, the steering wheel fractured and the air bags inadvertently deployed. Additionally, the headlamps and turn signals also failed to operate as needed. The vehicle was returned to the dealer who stated that front door master switch, the pillar and racket, the brakes, the headlamps, and turn signals needed to be repaired or replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 2,500.

TIRES (1 complaints)

TIRES

1 complaint
2022-05-09

Bridgestone Turanza EL440BW 235 45R18 94V is original equipment on my 2021 Toyota Avalon Hybrid. Mileage at the time of the incident was 11398. I saw what appeared to be splitting or separation of the lower depth of the tread. No loss of pressure. I brought it to the Toyota Dealer to check. They insisted I must have hit something and would not consider it a manufactures warranty. I replaced the tire out of safety concerns. I do not recall hitting or going over anything. I am attaching photos of the condition. I replaced the one tire with the same make and model but remain concerned that splitting of the tread could be dangerous. And still have 4 like tires on the car.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1 complaints)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1 complaintSafety-related
2020-10-01Crash reported

The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Avalon HV. The contact stated that while driving, all the instrument control panel lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer eight or nine times where it was diagnosed there was moisture in the brakes, the brake assembly, sensor harness, sensor in the grill, gear shifter, and hybrid sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. However, failure recurred. The contact stated that while driving the instrument panel, warning lights illuminated, and the hybrid system overheated. The pull over somewhere safe message was displayed. The steering wheel was stiff. The brake pedal was stiff and failed to depress. The contact was unable to control the vehicle and drove into a ditch was air borne and cross to the other side of road. The contact was able to drive away from the scene, but the vehicle shutdown and failed to start. The vehicle was towed to contact's place of business. There were no reported injuries, fire or air bag deployment. There was a state trooper on the scene but there was no police report filed. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 800.

When Do 2021 Toyota Avalon Problems Start?

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

56,000–69,000 milesEngine failure
15,000 milesVehicle speed control 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.

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
2021(selected)76/100+1Good221
202075/100+6Good310
201969/100-8Good468
201877/100Good224

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2021 Toyota Avalon reliable?
The 2021 Toyota Avalon has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 76/100. It is reasonably reliable with 2 recalls and 21 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Toyota Avalon?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2021 Toyota Avalon include: AIR BAGS (12 complaints), VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (3 complaints), BACK OVER PREVENTION (1 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints), ENGINE (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2021 Toyota Avalon have?
The 2021 Toyota Avalon has 2 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2021 Toyota Avalon expensive to maintain?
The 2021 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 76/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2021 Toyota Avalon without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

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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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