One problem related to brake master cylinder has been reported for the 2001 Toyota Avalon. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2001 Toyota Avalon based on all problems reported for the 2001 Avalon.
Vehicle brake system is of concern. Occasionally when the vehicle is brought to a stop the brake pedal will move down toward the floor a few seconds after the car is stopped. The two times I have brought this to the attention of the dealer, I am being told that this is normal for the vehicle and that all of them do this. This is the second Avalon I have owned and the first one did not have the situation happen. Other Avalon owners I have spoken to have never had this happen. The movement of the brake pedal downward after stopping does not occur all the time. It looks to occur after driving the vehicle for a period of time at highway speeds and in local traffic that requires constand stopping and starting. The pedal movement occurs about 10 to 15 seconds after stopping but does not occur every time. This brake pedal movement is of concern sice I have been driving for over 40 years. Brake pedal movement after stopping a vehicle has always been a sign of failure within the system. Usually a failing master cylinder. The movement of the brake pedal after stopping is not a confortable feeling and all that I have talked to (both Toyota owners and other mfg's) no one has experience this pedal movement. This includes cars that have skid control systems. I am concerned enough about this brake pedal issue and want confirmation from the vehicle manufacturer (not the dealer) that this is not a safety issue. Closing note, talked to a few Lexus owners, none have experienced this brake pedal movement.