The vehicle dossier US · 2000

2000 Toyota
AVALONProblems & recalls

173 distinct owner reports in the NHTSA snapshot. Other components appears in 54 of them. Explore what was reported—and which official actions are on file.

Snapshot Sep 28, 2026Live NHTSA complaint API How this dossier is compiled

01 / Owner-reported evidence

What owners reported.

Categories attached to 173 distinct reports. A report can mention more than one component, so category totals can overlap.

Other components54 reports
Steering34 reports
Air bags26 reports
Brakes22 reports
Engine22 reports
Visibility17 reports
Suspension13 reports
Electrical system11 reports
Transmission & drivetrain8 reports
Fuel system2 reports
Body & structure2 reports
See original component labels
STEERING27
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL19
AIR BAGS14
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD12
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL9
UNKNOWN OR OTHER8
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE8
SUSPENSION7
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM6
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP5
TIRES5
SERVICE BRAKES5
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS4
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW4
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE4
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC4
ENGINE4
POWER TRAIN3
SUSPENSION:FRONT3
STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM3
SUSPENSION:REAR3
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION2
EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER2
STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR2
TIRES:SIDEWALL2
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION2
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC2
INTERIOR LIGHTING2
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL2
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS2
VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR2
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES2
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION2
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY2
EXTERIOR LIGHTING2
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING2
WHEELS2
POWER TRAIN:AXLE HUBS1
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:HORN1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH1
EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.1
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS1
SEATS1
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM1
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK1
SEAT BELTS:FRONT1
TIRES:TREAD/BELT1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD1
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DRUM1
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR1
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH1
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY1
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST1
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS1
WHEELS:RIM1
STEERING:COLUMN1
STEERING:COLUMN LOCKING:ANTI-THEFT DEVICE1
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL1
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC1
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL1
STRUCTURE1
SEAT BELTS1
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM1
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS1

These are reports made to NHTSA, not verified diagnoses. More reports can reflect more vehicles, more time on the road, or greater reporting activity.

The reporting timeline

When reports arrived.

Reports by year filed, not by the year a problem occurred. Showing the latest 15 years with reports.

Year filed (last two digits)Latest report: Apr 18, 2025
Mileage, where supplied

83,837 miles is the median among 82 reports with usable mileage. The middle half spans 42,500–112,889 miles.

This describes the submitted reports. It does not predict when a vehicle will fail.

02 / Official safety campaigns

2 recall campaigns on file.

A campaign can cover only certain production dates or configurations. The count does not tell you whether an individual car has an open recall.

Jul 29, 2010 Safety recallSTEERINGCampaign 10V345000

Reported concern

TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2000-2004 AVALON VEHICLES. DUE TO IMPROPER CASTING OF THE STEERING LOCK BAR, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT A MINUTE CRACK MAY DEVELOP ON THE SURFACE OF THE LOCK BAR. SUCH A CRACK MAY EXPAND OVER A LONG PERIOD OF REPEATED LOCK AND UNLOCK OPERATIONS, AND EVENTUALLY THE LOCK BAR COULD BREAK.

Manufacturer’s stated response

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE STEERING INTERLOCK DEVICE FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 7, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.

Manufacturer campaign: AOH

Read campaign 10V345000 at NHTSA
Jun 5, 2000 Safety recallSUSPENSION:REARCampaign 00V154000

Reported concern

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. DUE TO IMPROPER HEAT TREATMENT, THE REAR AXLE MAY NOT HAVE ADEQUATE STRENGTH IN SOME AREAS.

Manufacturer’s stated response

DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE REAR AXLE HUB ASSEMBLIES.

Read campaign 00V154000 at NHTSA
Check this car’s VIN at NHTSA

03 / The manufacturer’s record

Instructions. Updates. Responses.

124 distinct communications list this model-year. Showing the latest 12. A matching model-year does not establish that every engine, trim or reported symptom is covered.

Dec 6, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0039-24 Rev2The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a p…NHTSA ID 11012744

The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a painted vehicle surface, especially the horizonal areas of the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage can occur. This damage is the result of actual etching of the paint and appears as pitting or water spots. As acid rain droplets on the vehicle surface evaporate, the concentration strength of the acid increases, causing deeper and more rapid damage. This evaporation and corrosive action also occur more rapidly on dark colored cars as direct sun heat increases. It is the dealer’s responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicle’s paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. In areas known for high frequency and/or concentration of acid rain, frequent vehicle washing during high heat or humidity periods will minimize the potential for paint damage caused by acid rain. It is further recommended that either reverse osmosis or deionized water be used to prevent water spotting.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0039-24 Rev2

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11012744 at NHTSA
Dec 6, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0038-24 Rev2To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather el…NHTSA ID 11012743

To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather elements and initial rust before the vehicle is delivered to the customer. Consequently, the film should remain on the wheel for as long as possible.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0038-24 Rev2

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11012743 at NHTSA
Dec 6, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0035-24 Rev2Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas suc…NHTSA ID 11012742

Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage to the painted surfaces can occur. Acid rain damage can typically be identified on vehicles by the presence of stains on the paint surface that resemble hard water spots. Unlike water spots however, acid rain damage cannot be removed by regular washing procedures. Also, because acid rain can etch and soften the paint, normal buffing or polishing repair procedures should not be attempted. This can cause further damage and result in visible depressions in the paint surface. The following are the three major categories of acid rain damage: •Minor damage: requires only buffing to repair. •Moderate damage: usually requires neutralizing, color sanding, and buffing. •Severe damage: extending beyond 1/2 mil of clearcoat on a pearl, metallic, or solid color, requires neutralization, sanding, and repainting. In cases where acid rain damage is minor, neutralization and buffing with a liquid-type paint finessing product may provide an adequate repair. Only specially formulated products outlined in this bulletin should be used for that purpose. Unfortunately, other than minor damage, there is no simple method of determining the actual extent (depth) of acid penetration other than color sanding a representative affected area until there is no visible etching or depressions, followed by measuring the amount of paint removed with either a magnetic or digital-type film thickness gauge. The procedures in this bulletin are intended for use by qualified body/paint technicians and should not be attempted by inexperienced personnel. It is the dealer’s responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicle’s paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. Perform frequent vehicle washing, as often as daily, during high heat and humidity periods to minimize the potential for paint damage due to acid rain exposure. This is especially important in geographical areas known for high frequency and concentration of acid rain and industrial fallout.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0035-24 Rev2

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11012742 at NHTSA
Dec 5, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0061-23 Rev2Toyota vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination. Follow the Remova…NHTSA ID 11012735

Toyota vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination. Follow the Removal Procedure in this bulletin to remove the RapgardTM protective film within 90 days from initial application.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0061-23 Rev2

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11012735 at NHTSA
Dec 3, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0062-23 Rev2Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad tracks, train wheels, exposure to heavy machinery facilities, grinding, welding, etc. This type of contamination can be ident…NHTSA ID 11012727

Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad tracks, train wheels, exposure to heavy machinery facilities, grinding, welding, etc. This type of contamination can be identified by the presence of small, red or brown particles on the paint surface. These particles are often difficult to see on dark color paints but can be easily felt when brushing a hand across horizontal body surfaces such as the hood, roof, or deck lid. Follow the Repair Procedure in this bulletin to clean vehicles that may have been subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles such as rail dust during rail transportation or extended storage near industrial areas.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0062-23 Rev2

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11012727 at NHTSA
Jul 12, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0039-24 Rev1The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a p…NHTSA ID 11007445

The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a painted vehicle surface, especially the horizonal areas of the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage can occur. This damage is the result of actual etching of the paint and appears as pitting or water spots. As acid rain droplets on the vehicle surface evaporate, the concentration strength of the acid increases, causing deeper and more rapid damage. This evaporation and corrosive action also occur more rapidly on dark colored cars as direct sun heat increases. It is the dealer’s responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicle’s paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. In areas known for high frequency and/or concentration of acid rain (see Figure 1), frequent vehicle washing during high heat or humidity periods will minimize the potential for paint damage caused by acid rain. It is further recommended that either reverse osmosis or deionized water be used to prevent water spotting.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0039-24 Rev1

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11007445 at NHTSA
Jul 12, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0038-24 Rev1To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather el…NHTSA ID 11007444

To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather elements and initial rust before the vehicle is delivered to the customer. Consequently, the film should remain on the wheel for as long as possible.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0038-24 Rev1

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11007444 at NHTSA
Jul 12, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0035-24 Rev1Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas suc…NHTSA ID 11007443

Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage to the painted surfaces can occur. Acid rain damage can typically be identified on vehicles by the presence of stains on the paint surface that resemble hard water spots. Unlike water spots however, acid rain damage cannot be removed by regular washing procedures. Also, because acid rain can etch and soften the paint, normal buffing or polishing repair procedures should not be attempted. This can cause further damage and result in visible depressions in the paint surface. The following are the three major categories of acid rain damage: •Minor damage: requires only buffing to repair. •Moderate damage: usually requires neutralizing, color sanding, and buffing. •Severe damage: extending beyond 1/2 mil of clearcoat on a pearl, metallic, or solid color, requires neutralization, sanding, and repainting. In cases where acid rain damage is minor, neutralization and buffing with a liquid-type paint finessing product may provide an adequate repair. Only specially formulated products outlined in this bulletin should be used for that purpose. Unfortunately, other than minor damage, there is no simple method of determining the actual extent (depth) of acid penetration other than color sanding a representative affected area until there is no visible etching or depressions, followed by measuring the amount of paint removed with either a magnetic or digital-type film thickness gauge. The procedures in this bulletin are intended for use by qualified body/paint technicians and should not be attempted by inexperienced personnel. It is the dealer’s responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicle’s paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. Perform frequent vehicle washing, as often as daily, during high heat and humidity periods to minimize the potential for paint damage due to acid rain exposure. This is especially important in geographical areas known for high frequency and concentration of acid rain and industrial fallout.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0035-24 Rev1

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11007443 at NHTSA
Jul 12, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0039-24 Rev1The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a p…NHTSA ID 11006151

The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a painted vehicle surface, especially the horizonal areas of the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage can occur. This damage is the result of actual etching of the paint and appears as pitting or water spots. As acid rain droplets on the vehicle surface evaporate, the concentration strength of the acid increases, causing deeper and more rapid damage. This evaporation and corrosive action also occur more rapidly on dark colored cars as direct sun heat increases. It is the dealer’s responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicle’s paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. In areas known for high frequency and/or concentration of acid rain (see Figure 1), frequent vehicle washing during high heat or humidity periods will minimize the potential for paint damage caused by acid rain. It is further recommended that either reverse osmosis or deionized water be used to prevent water spotting.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0039-24 Rev1

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11006151 at NHTSA
Jul 12, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0038-24 Rev1To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather el…NHTSA ID 11006150

To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather elements and initial rust before the vehicle is delivered to the customer. Consequently, the film should remain on the wheel for as long as possible.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0038-24 Rev1

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11006150 at NHTSA
Jul 12, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0035-24 Rev1Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas suc…NHTSA ID 11006149

Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage to the painted surfaces can occur. Acid rain damage can typically be identified on vehicles by the presence of stains on the paint surface that resemble hard water spots. Unlike water spots however, acid rain damage cannot be removed by regular washing procedures. Also, because acid rain can etch and soften the paint, normal buffing or polishing repair procedures should not be attempted. This can cause further damage and result in visible depressions in the paint surface. The following are the three major categories of acid rain damage: •Minor damage: requires only buffing to repair. •Moderate damage: usually requires neutralizing, color sanding, and buffing. •Severe damage: extending beyond 1/2 mil of clearcoat on a pearl, metallic, or solid color, requires neutralization, sanding, and repainting. In cases where acid rain damage is minor, neutralization and buffing with a liquid-type paint finessing product may provide an adequate repair. Only specially formulated products outlined in this bulletin should be used for that purpose. Unfortunately, other than minor damage, there is no simple method of determining the actual extent (depth) of acid penetration other than color sanding a representative affected area until there is no visible etching or depressions, followed by measuring the amount of paint removed with either a magnetic or digital-type film thickness gauge. The procedures in this bulletin are intended for use by qualified body/paint technicians and should not be attempted by inexperienced personnel. It is the dealer’s responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicle’s paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. Perform frequent vehicle washing, as often as daily, during high heat and humidity periods to minimize the potential for paint damage due to acid rain exposure. This is especially important in geographical areas known for high frequency and concentration of acid rain and industrial fallout.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0035-24 Rev1

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11006149 at NHTSA
May 17, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsT-SB-0061-23 Rev1Toyota vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination.NHTSA ID 11005153

Toyota vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination.

Campaign / software reference: T-SB-0061-23 Rev1

Components: STRUCTURE:BODY. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11005153 at NHTSA
Browse all manufacturer records by page

Records below contain the NHTSA bulk summary unless a document-reviewed explainer is linked. A service bulletin is not a safety recall or a promise of a free repair. Records may be revised or superseded; verify the current document with the manufacturer.

04 / Agency investigations

Official inquiries.

An investigation is an inquiry into a potential concern. Its presence does not establish a defect, and a closed case does not certify a car’s condition.

Opened Apr 30, 2002 ClosedENGINE SEIZUREDP02004

Recorded closure: Jun 20, 2002

Find investigation DP02004

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