Last updated: 2026-07-26

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
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
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)
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)
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 soldSegment avg: 16.7
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.
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.
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.
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.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2021 Toyota Avalon NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 10.5%
Safety Technologies
Toyota AvalonRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based 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
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
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avalon AWD 2.5L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 25 | 34 | 28 | $2,150 |
| Avalon XLE 3.5L 6-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 22 | 32 | 26 | $2,300 |
| Avalon 3.5L 6-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 22 | 31 | 25 | $2,400 |
| Avalon TRD 3.5L 6-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 21 | 30 | 25 | $2,400 |
Hybrid trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avalon Hybrid XLE 2.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AV-S6) | 43 | 44 | 44 | $1,350 |
| Avalon Hybrid 2.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AV-S6) | 43 | 43 | 43 | $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.
AIR BAGS
12 complaintsOwners 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.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
3 complaintsOwners 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.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
1 complaintThe 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 complaintON 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 complaintWhile 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 complaintThe 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 complaintBridgestone 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-relatedThe 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.
Best & Worst Toyota Avalon Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Toyota Avalon Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe 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).
2022
2018
2021
(Current Model)
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.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 69/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 76/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 80/100 | Excellent |
Toyota Avalon Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2021 Toyota Avalon reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Toyota Avalon?
How many recalls does the 2021 Toyota Avalon have?
Is the 2021 Toyota Avalon expensive to maintain?
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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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
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.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
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.
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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