Two problems related to ignition have been reported for the 1998 Toyota Avalon. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Upon trying to start my car, my key wouldn't turn. I thought it could be a warn out key, so I tried my second master key and when it wouldn't turn either I tried my sub key which failed just as well. I kept trying with my two master keys, taking them out and putting them back in repeatedly. Until finally after about 30 minutes my ignition turned over. My car started at times easy and kind of easy for about 6 months following that. Then all of a sudden it started to act up again sometimes not turning over at all and leaving me stranded or missing work. This now occurs every single time I try to start my car. God forbid some one follows me to my car I won't be able to get away. I've contacted numerous repair companies, mechanics, savage yards, and parts stores who have all pointed me in the direction of the dealer of the make/model because of the deferment/immobilizer system. Upon contacting the dealer I've learned to repair the problem, it will cost me a pretty penny. New parts will have to be ordered and old parts are not available.
Ignition piece fell off. Yh.