Table 1 shows eight common power train related problems of the 1998 Toyota Avalon. The number one most common problem is related to the automatic transmission (two problems). The second most common problem is related to the transmission failure (two problems).
While my usual mechanic was performing preventive maintenance on the automatic transmission at 64,500 miles, he discovered a large, bent bolt in the transmission fluid pan which was not there when the transmission was last serviced at 39,000 miles. He did not note any metal shavings, etc. Read details...
Automatic transmission failed at 69,500 mark. Ook car into dealer and thought it was noisy brakes. Rove about 100 more miles and something broke. The transmission almost seized, could of caused an accident. Read details...
While driving 70 mph the passenger leaned over and accidently pushed the automatic tranmission gear from drive position to neutral position, which almost caused an accident. Owner believes this ease in switching gears is a dangerous design flaw. . Et. Read details...