Toyota Avensis common problems: what to check before you buy
Credov's researched list of the 2 faults the Toyota Avensis is known for (2003–2015), 2 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
Known problems on the Toyota Avensis
Airbag control unit fault
Safety risk
2003–2015 · petrol · Interior and air con
What to look for: Check the airbag light comes on then goes out, and look for a 4363 recall sticker in the driver's door opening.
Why it matters: The MLIT notification records that electrical noise immunity of the airbag control unit was inadequately assessed, so noise from the vehicle's electrical components can damage an IC chip inside the unit in service and, in the worst case, deploy the airbags while the vehicle is moving. An airbag firing unprompted at speed is a crash cause in itself.
What to look for: Drive with several speed-up and slow-down runs, and look for a gearbox warning light or the car going into limp mode.
Why it matters: Toyota Japan's notice states that manufacturing variation left some lock-up clutch components in the CVT torque converter short of strength, so repeated acceleration and deceleration can stop the clutch working, illuminating a warning lamp and putting the car into fail-safe running.
Got a question about a Toyota Avensis? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
Also check on every car
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.