Toyota Avalon 2002

• Recall 82739 [USA]: Should the steering lock bar break, the steering wheel would lock and the driver would lose the ability to steer the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
  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.
  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.
  toyota safety recall no. Aoh.Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.Safercar.Gov .

• Recall 2010253 [Canada]: Steering
  On certain vehicles, a minute crack may develop on the surface of the steering lock bar, which is a component of the steering interlock system. Such a crack may expand over a period of repeated lock and unlock operations, and eventually the lock bar could break. If this occurs, the interlock system may become difficult to unlock when stationary. If the vehicle is steered to the right while in motion with sufficient lateral acceleration, a broken and loose lock bar may move toward the steering shaft. If the engagement hole in the shaft happens to line up at the specific time the broken lock bar has moved, this could cause the steering wheel lock bar to engage, resulting in a sudden loss of steering control. Correction: dealers will replace the steering interlock device.

To ensure accuracy and for your safety, it is recommended to do a free VIN recall check here or here [USA] - UK - Canada.

Bulletins are notices put out by manufacturers in conjunction with the NHTSA to notify the public of manufacturing issues or changes.

Common OBD Error codes specific to this vehicle.

• P0335 [1] Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction
• P0440 [2] Evaporative Emission Control System Malfunction
• P0441 [2] Evaporative Emission Control System Incorrect Purge Flow
• P0446 [2] Evaporative Emission Control System Vent Control Circuit Malfunction
• B0113 [3] Driver side airbag - high input
• P0420 [1] Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
• C1246 [1] ABS Outlet Valve Coil RR Circuit Failure
• B1141 [1] B1141
• B0116 [1] Side airbag pasai: era - signal out of range / performance

Headlights failed to operate correctly, resulting in taking the car to fix problem , service advisor told me that this veh vin number shows this car should not havve automatly controled headlights, the car is being serviced at cedar rapids toyota , steve lemke is the servvice advisior

The 2003-2004 model avalon's have a recall for the airbags when exposed to certain frequencies and noises. My 2002 avalon has the same issue and toyota needs to include this model year as well. I've had no problems out of this car ever, but as soon as it hit 140,000 miles the air bags light came on. After doing a little research i seen that others were having the same issue. Please include this model year in the recall because this car is very dependable and i've had no issues until now.

The 2003-2004 model avalon's have a recall for the airbags when exposed to certain frequencies and noises. My 2002 avalon has the same issue and toyota needs to include this model year as well. I've had no problems out of this car ever, but as soon as it hit 140,000 miles the air bags light came on. After doing a little research i seen that others were having the same issue. Please include this model year in the recall because this car is very dependable and i've had no issues until now.

I was in a car accident where i lost control of the vehicle due to slippery roads. I was exiting i5 on to highway 7 in tacoma washington. The vehicle wouldn't stop, slid and hit a cement wall on highway 7. Upon impact i hit my head on windshield and none of the air bags came out upon impact. I received injuries due to this disorder.

I was in a car accident where i lost control of the vehicle due to slippery roads. I was exiting i5 on to highway 7 in tacoma washington. The vehicle wouldn't stop, slid and hit a cement wall on highway 7. Upon impact i hit my head on windshield and none of the air bags came out upon impact. I received injuries due to this disorder.

While at the store i found i can turn the car off and remove the key and get ou while the car is still in gear. If you are not paying attention the vehicle can roll away, causing personal and property damage and possible loss of life.

I was driving on a highway when the car accelerated by itself, brakes did not work. The car put itself in the middle of two lanes, then accelerated turn half ,i think, crashed (the front of the car)with a small hill some how did not stop and ended up somehow turning back and crashed again this time the back of the car crashed against the hill and stopped. The car suffered several breaks in and a transmision repair. This is my third toyota. It was perfect before the incident. It was very scary. Just a few min before the crash i was passing a toll at about 28 mph. After passing the tool i was faster than that but i do not like to speed.

Moving my car from a to b put it in reverse it just took off by it self. It was going so fast i could not stop it even pressing the breaks it still went fast on it on. I started screaming why this car going so fast and why i can't stop it. It stopped when it hit the carport and to sienna van under the carport.Which my vans are damage very bad. I call toyota corporation and told them what happen. They asked me what i wanted from toyota i said my car carport, and both vans fix. They gave me a claim number.So they are having an inspector to inspect it i will have to pay to have it towed. They work for toyota and may say the car is fine but i know what happen to me. It is scary, i could have been killed. In my own backyard.

When turning steering wheel hard to turn like it get stuck can turn the steering wheel.I was driving a city street when i notice a few days ago. Just seeing the recall notice.How long does the consumer have to get assistance with recall.

I was leaving parking lot @ 1-2 mph turning right onto w tuolumne rd in turlock ca. Suddenly car took off like a jet, brakes didn't depress, hit an island then slammed into tree. I am injured ans car totaled. Vehicle speed control acceleration pedal problem.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. While operating the vehicle, the air bag sensor illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that there was a loose electrical wire. The failure was not repaired. Months later, the vehicle crashed into a second vehicle. The air bags did not deploy. No further information regarding the crash was provided. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vin was not available. The failure mileage was 300,000.

Air bag flashes vsc off and engine failure lit.Low miles. Tuned replacing spark plugs. No improvement.

1)steering-when trying to go straight car will tilt to the left, have to keep wheel at weird angle to maintain a straight line. 2)accelerator sticks accelerator seems stiff and sticky and causes car to lurch when starting from a stop -was making left turn through intersection on a city street february 4th and accelerator stuck until it was pumped, increasing my speed. Was terrifying. 3)rust ridden roters and break anti-rust covers not working at all 4)visibility-windshield's seal seems defective-vin number not visible due to condensation building in lower corner, windshield fogs up profusely and stays that way even with defroster making it difficult to see out of front windshield 5)heater-blows cooled air (not room temp) instead of warm when turned on, seems like computer error in thermostate/temperature gage 6)side windows shake/studder when rolled up or down

Srs warning light appeared flashing on car. Took car to have checked and was told the side air bag sensor needed to be replaced. Side air bag sensor was replaced. Light no longer flashed. 5 days later the srs warning light is flashing again. There have been several complaints on the nhtsa website about the same problem. I've been told that some car manufacturers will fix safety issues under an extended warranty. Can toyota fix these problems free of charge? I'd like to find out before i spend more money trying to diagnose why the srs air bag light is flashing. Several complaints have said that people have had several items repaired and the light still flashes. I think this is a safety issue that toyota should fix.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 30 mph, the engine warning indicator illuminated continuously. The vehicle was taken to the dealer on five separate occasions where the fuel cap and fuel line hose were replaced at different times. The failure recurred two days after each repair was performed. Most recent, the dealer diagnosed that the fuel tank would need to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 71,000.

During a front-end collision in which my car was stopped and rammed into by another vehicle the air bag inflation sensor was sheared off it's mounting bracket. The air bag failed to inflate because the sensor failed to detect the impact.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact stated that the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the technician was able to adjust the pretensioners on the front passenger side of the vehicle. The contact stated that the air bag warning light was reset; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where the contact was informed that the air bag wiring harness needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 71,500.

My 2002 toyota avalon continued to accelerate when i took my foot off the gas peddle and depressed the brake. I tried using the brake and emergency brake to stop the car, but i could not stop the car's acceleration. My car ended up slamming into a house. It was investigated by shelby township michigan police and confirmed the accelerated was stuck. I received severe injuries in this accident including a head injury, and neck & back injuries. I am concerned about the safety of other people driving a similar car. Please investigate.

Airbag on with error code B0113 ( short inside squib hr circuit to +b ) and can not erase code.

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the air bag light illuminated continuously. The failure recurred numerous times. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed that the air bag system needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000. The vin was not available. Updated 4/7/15*cn

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v043000 (air bags) however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact had not experienced a failure. Vin tool confirms parts not available. ...Updated 12/11/15 *bf updated 12/15/15. *jb

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact stated that while driving at a low speed, the brake pedal was depressed but the vehicle failed to stop. The contact applied excessive force to the brakes again but the brakes failed to respond. As a result, the contact crashed into the rear of another vehicle. The driver's side air bag failed to deploy. The contact sustained sternum and heart bruises that required medical attention. A police report was filed. The vehicle was destroyed. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 162,000.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact stated that while driving at an unknown speed, the airbag light illuminated intermittently. The problem recurred several times. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 161,370.

The srs warning light on the dashboard blinks continuously. *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact stated that while turning at unknown speeds, the vehicle became difficult to maneuver. The contact also mentioned that the vehicle failed to respond to deceleration attempts. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted about the failure. The failure and current mileage was 215,000. Updated 6/27/14*cn the consumer stated the steering wheel locked up and she was unable to turn the wheel left or right.

Air bag warning light came on:dealer - labor 59067 checked all connections. Checked codes. Cleared codes. Air bag warning "red" light came back on within a few days dealer offered a repair approximate cost $2,000.00 i did not accept did not repair am driving the car since with warning light on all the time. *tr

While driving home on 9/24/13 my check engine light came on, i drove right to the toyota dealership. I was informed that the catalytic converter system was below threshold ( code P0420). This repair cost me $2,541.27. I was told this would correct the problem with my air bag light flashing. After paying for this repair my air bag light continues to flash, even though the service representative said the diagnostic did not show a code. I was previously told the code for the air bag was B0113. Since purchasing this 2002 avalon i have had to have the valve assy, idle replaced at a cost of 978.63, this is in addition to regular scheduled services. I have owned other cars for the same length of time and miles as this toyota and i have never had so many problems outside regular services with any of my other vehicles (mazda and acura) i have completely lost confidence in the toyota brand. I believe there are defects with the electrical system in the 2002 avalon. *tr

Without incident, about 2 months ago, the airbag light came on when car started and continues to blink while car is running. I have approximately 99,000 miles on my 2002 toyota avalon. Local mechanic tested with his equipment and found a problem with passenger side airbag. He referred me to dealer to make repairs. Called dealer and was told they would have to re-check at cost of more than $100 and then would charge me for any repairs that were needed, but could not quote price until they performed test. I then read about recalls of 2002 avalon, but my dealer said that i would have to pay because my make and model had not been recalled. I cannot justify paying $100+ for a re-test and then having to pay any amount dealer charges to repair a 12 year old auto. I do not trust this dealer because of past dealings with their sales and service departments. Please advise me. I transport my elderly aunt on occasion. Is it safe for her to ride in the front passenger seat? Thank you. *tr

I own a 2002 toyota avalon xl. The srs airbag light on the dashboard is constantly blinking. I took the vehicle to a repair shop that tested it and said that there is a short in the drivers side squib circuit. There was no incident to trigger this. Apparently this is a manufacturing defect and should be fixed via a recall by toyota. *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact stated that nhtsa campaign number: 10v345000 (steering) was performed however, the failure was not corrected. The steering wheel became hard to turn and made a loud clicking noise. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure and current mileage was 155,995.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact stated that while driving 1 mph and going through a car wash, the vehicle accelerated independently and crashed into a vehicle directly in front of it. The contact put the vehicle in reverse and again the vehicle accelerated independently and crashed into the vehicle directly behind it. The contact suffered injuries to her neck and back. The vehicle had not been repaired. The failure and current mileage was 75,655.

I was driving in traffic and i put on my brakes suddenly and the srs light came on and remained on all day. I took it into the dealership and they ran a diagnostic which cost me 97 dollars, the code was B0113 right side air bag defect. I was quoted 2,000 dollars to repair. The air bags on my car have never deployed and i think there is a defect with the air bags and should be repaired by toyota free of charge.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. While driving approximately 65 mph, the driver of the vehicle crashed into a cement divider on the highway. The air bags did not deploy. The police reported to the scene and a report was filed. The driver of the vehicle and the contact, who was in the front passenger seat, was transported to the hospital by ambulance. The driver of the vehicle suffered a neck injury and the contact suffered a concussion and fractured vertebrae requiring surgery. The contact stated prior to the crash the air bag light would illuminate intermittently. The vehicle was destroyed. The approximate failure mileage was 160,000. ...Updated 08-10-12 *bf updated 08/14/2012 *js

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact stated that while driving at any speed, the vehicle would stall without warning. The failure was recurring. The check engine light illuminated and then flashed randomly each time the vehicle was driven. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer, who diagnosed that the steering column pin and an environmental control box needed to be repaired. The vehicle was repaired and the failure still recurred sporadically. The vehicle was taken to a mechanic, where the radiator was replaced. The mechanic was unable to diagnose the steering failure however and the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 140000. Updated 05/22/14 ma updated 8/8/2017*cn

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact was driving 30 mph during inclement weather when the vehicle suddenly accelerated and crashed into an embankment. The air bags did not deploy and the vehicle was destroyed. The contact was not injured during the crash. The contact called the manufacturer and filed a complaint. The manufacturer also stated that an engineer would be sent to inspect the vehicle. The manufacturer inspected the vehicle but did not give any details of what caused the crash. The failure mileage was 101,000.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact stated that the air bag warning light illuminated recurringly. The vehicle was taken to a dealer three times where the system was reset but to no avail. The contact referenced nhtsa campaign id number 14v147000(air bag) but did not confirm if the vehicle was included in the recall complaint. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 160,000.

2002 toyota avalon. S10 appropriate handling- letter to the secretary from complaint regarding toyota problems *tgw the consumer stated when she applied the brake, the vehicle failed to stop and on one occasion, she went through an intersection. She also stated the accelerator became stuck. The dealer was unable to duplicate the problem. *jb updated 04/05/11

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact was driving approximately 35 mph when the steering wheel suddenly locked and caused the vehicle to veer off road, crashing into a tree. The contact was reported injured and was transported to the hospital via ambulance. A police report was filed. The vehicle was then towed to a independent mechanic where it was deemed as destroyed. The manufacturer was contacted and advised him that there was a recall on the vehicle in regards to nhtsa campaign id number 10v345000 (steering) but the vehicle was never brought in for recall repairs. The failure mileage was approximately 143,000. Updated 03/31/11*bf the consumer stated to date, he/she has not received a report from toyota. Updated 06/20/11

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact stated that the air bag warning light illuminated. The failure occurred multiple times. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the air bag needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact did not disclose if the manufacturer was notified. The failure mileage was 48,000. Updated 04/06/15*lj updated 11/3/2015 *js

I bought a used toyota avalon 2002 with @ 67k miles on it two months ago. I noticed that it occasionally had blue smoke coming out on cold start up. I took it to my local dealer for a regular oil change after 2,700 miles elapsed from when it was purchased. I did a carfax report on the vehicle prior to purchase and it showed that the vehicle was a one owner car with no repair or damage history before it was traded in. My wife drove it for @ 2,000 miles after the oil change when the engine oil light came on a few miles from our home. I checked the oil level and it didn't read anything on the dip stick. I was shocked when it took 4 1/2 quarts to read full. I immediately contacted the dealer (ehrlich toyota, greeley, co) that did my oil change and they scheduled an appointment today to assess the problem. I did some online research over the thanksgiving holiday about the problem prior to taking the car to the dealer. I discovered that toyota has had significant problems with engine sludge that eventually causes sever damage to the affected engines. The dealer diagnosed this to be the problem with this car that i purchased on the 17th of september 2010. I discovered that toyota came out with a csp (customer support program) to address this problem. In essence, toyota agreed to perform any necessary repairs (including engine repair/overhaul) if the vehicle was identified with this problem and that the owner could prove regular oil changes had been done. This "one time" good faith fix applied to the affected vehicles for a period of 8 years plus 120 days after it's original purchase. I discovered that the original owner of my avalon bought the car on the 24th of june 2002. That essentially makes my car out of the zone for this repair as of the 24th of october 2010. Because of this, the dealer said it's my problem! I can't tell you how furious this makes me that i'm now responsible for a defect i was never informed of at the purchase date of sept 17th 2010. *tr

2002 toyota avalon was repaired due to recall on steering column. After repair, i was able to turn off ignition while car was in drive mode. Which safety defect is worse? *tr

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign id number: 10v345000 (steering) and contacted the dealer to secure an appointment for repairs. The dealer advised that the recall parts were not readily available. The dealer advised the contact that he would be notified when the part became available. The contact was concerned that the failure would occur while waiting for the parts to arrive. The failure and current mileage was 92,000.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact stated that he received notification of nhtsa campaign id number: 10v345000 (steering). The dealer was contacted and stated that they have not received the part needed for the recall to be performed. The dealer stated that they would contact him when the part became available. The contact had not experienced a failure. The current mileage was 127,000.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. While driving approximately 30 mph, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where the contact was advised to have the air bags replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 39,600 and the current mileage was 39,800.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact stated that he received notification of nhtsa campaign id number: 10v345000 (steering) but when he contacted the dealer, he was told that the parts needed for repairs were not available and could not provide an estimated expectancy date. The contact did not experience a failure but was concerned that the failure could potentially cause a crash if the failure existed. The vehicle was not repaired under the recall. The manufacturer confirmed that the parts were not available and could not provide a date of availability. The current and failure mileages were approximately 30,000.

Tl* the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the air bag warning light was illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where the contact was informed that there was a damaged wire connector under the front driver seat. The vehicle was repaired yet the failure recurred approximately two months later. The vehicle was taken back to the authorized dealer where the electronic control module was repaired yet, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where the air bag sensors were replaced but to no avail. The vehicle was taken to a different dealer where the contact was informed that the wiring for the front driver side air bag exhibited a short. The vehicle was not further repaired. The failure mileage was 104,281 and the current mileage was 113,000.

2002 toyota avalon xls with about 84,000 miles periodically stalls when braking and turning 90 degrees at low speed at the bottom of the hill near our house. It's an intermittent problem. The engine stalls and power steering becomes inoperative making it difficult to control car until it is stopped and the engine restarted. All periodic services are accomplished by toyota in accordance with vehicle service guide. *tr

On 14 june 2010, while driving in fairly heavy traffic, there was a loud noise in the front end of my 2002 toyota avalon. The wheels immediately jerked to the left. I regained control and moved thru the intersection when the action repeated itself. I immediately pulled over and had the car towed to findlay toyota in henderson nv. After extensive testing, they found nothing wrong nor did an independent repair shop. Following the 29 july news release from toyota, i e-mailed toyota for information regarding avalon's problem. On 30 july toyota responded "at the present time, toyota has not identified a remedy for this safety recall." in your 2 aug release, nhtsa states the problem is "due to improper casting of the steering lock bar". Nhtsa goes on to state that "dealers will replace the steering interlock device free of charge". My question is, why is it that nhtsa has identified a remedy for the problem and toyota has not? *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact stated that she experienced sudden acceleration while her foot was on the accelerator pedal. As she turned into a parking space, the vehicle lurched forward and crashed into another vehicle next to her. There were no injuries but a police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to an authorized dealership where the dealer inspected the brake and ran a diagnostic test but could not find the cause for failure. The contact called the manufacturer and filed a complaint. The failure and current mileages were approximately 118,000.

I was approaching a parking space at a restaurant. I had my foot on the brake pedal as i turned into the space. As i came to the end of the space, the car lunged over the curb and hit the building. Because things happened so quickly, i cannot say whether my foot slipped off the brake but i do know that i didn't have control of my car. There was damage to the corner of the building and to my car as well. I have not had any problems with this car in the past and can't say that any equipment was deficient. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. The contact stated that when she engage the accelerator pedal, to drive the vehicle in reverse, the vehicle accelerated backwards. The contact stated that she put the vehicle in drive to avoid hitting the light pole. The vehicle accelerated over a curb and crashed into a fence. The contact didn't state if a police report was filed or not. The contact was injured. The driver was able to apply pressure to the brakes in order to stop the vehicle. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The insurance company authorized had the vehicle towed to an auto body shop to be repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000. The approximate current mileage was 100,000.

Identify whether or not electronic throttle control systems are installed on my 2002 toyota avalon and 2003 toyota sienna. If electronic systems are present, are they defective? Can nhtsa declare that if electronic throttle controls are present, that they are safe to operate? My 2002 toyota avalon also has a known defect (engine oil gel issues) which toyota managed to avoid a recall. Will toyota replace my engine if the engine fails due to this known defect? Did the nhtsa ever issue a recall due to this defect? *tr

Was driving my 2002 avalon to work this morning and it started having the acceleration issues. I didn't even have to step on the gas after stopping at a stop sign and got to 40 mph no problem. When i finally got to work and put it in park the engine revved the gas pedal was not stuck under the floor mat. Definitely seems electronic to me. Now toyota is charging $95 just to diagnose issue as it is outside of the years recalled. I came across a report that they are investigating as far back as my year now though. Http://www.Comcast.Net/video/uproar-over-car-pedals/1404058099 hoping they expand this thing and get it fixed! *tr

My 2002 toyota avalon when put in reverse could not be stopped and went into a parked car with 2 people in it! This also happened to my 1998 toyota avalon twice!! *tr

Gas pedal stuck. While pulling into work space taking my foot off the accelerator i anticipated the gradual slowdown of my 2002 avalon. The car did not, and actually seemed to accelerate over the cement stopper, and did not slow or stop until i jammed on the break. This happened approximately 2 months ago. At the time had no explanation for it. After hearing about this exact problem with the 2005-2010 models i began to feel there may be a connection. Toyota began using this "accelerator mechanism" in the 2002 avalon. I would like to have my accelerator corrected by toyota. Upon calling the local dealer (vero beach fl) i was told that it is not a recalled vehicle, therefore unless the "uncontrolled acceleration" or "stuck gas pedal incident" can be "reproduced, they can do nothing. *tr

Car had been parked in garage for 2 days. Drove vehicle about 1/4 mile and stopped for stop light. When entering intersection, heard a loud clunk. Car was very sluggish and noticed smoke through rear window. Stopped and found brakes locked and abs/vsc indicators on dash lit. Had car towed to toyota dealer who found "master cylinder seized code C1246 pressure sensor malfunction". They replaced master brake cylinder. Told them i wanted part back but they said toyota had priority over part and kept it. Vehicle had 65,614 miles on it at time of incident. Also, brake system flush had been performed by toyota dealer 4000 miles and 4 months previous. *tr

While driving on the massachusetts turnpike (route 90) my toyota avalon suddenly turned to the left (driver's side) and struck the highway median. I had no control of my avalon and the vehicle was unresponsive to turning the wheel and to braking. *tr

Toyota avalon '02 accelerated and had no brakes going down 35-40' driveway. Would knock parked car through house if i did not turn. Steered into railroad-tie holding berm. Bouncing off the tie slowed momentum of car. Was able to turn. Still crashed into parked car. Totaled my car and parked car. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. While driving approximately 40 mph on normal road conditions the engine began to rev excessively high. Suddenly, there was an unintended increase of acceleration. The driver was able to slow the vehicle down; however, the failure occurred whenever the vehicle was in operation. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for diagnostic testing. The failure was contributed to the throttle body and it was repaired. The failure mileage was 2,000. The vin was unavailable.

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. When she approached a traffic light or intersection and attempted to accelerate, the gas pedal was stuck and the vehicle would not accelerate. She had to engage the accelerator pedal repeatedly before the vehicle would move forward. A local mechanic sprayed the accelerator pedal with some dw40 spray; however, the failure was not corrected. She contacted the dealer. The dealer stated that her vehicle was not a part of the recall; therefore, she will have to pay for the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 50,000 and the current mileage is 80,000. Updated 03/10/10 *bf updated 05/06/10*jb

When i wanted to exit the car from the driver's side, the inside door handle would not work. I had to open the window and use the outside handle to exit the car .I was then able to exit the car. I had to have the driver's side door assembly replaced.That was the first time this happened. The same thing happened again in november 2014. The inside driver's door handle would not let me exit the car and i was trapped inside again. The inside door handle cable snapped. I had to have the cable replaced. This happened twice within a 5 year period. *tr

Airbag light on 2002 toyota avalon with 65000 miles was flashing and took to dealer. Diagnosed with B1141 code -side airbag sensor assembly malfunction. Cost to repair included complete replacement of the driver seat at $2000. Find this cost unreasonable and don't trust dealer that there is not a cheaper way to fix. Interesting that i had two side collisions and in either case, side airbag did not deploy. Defective airbag assembly should be replaced at no charge due to safety issue. *tr

Driving car in parking lot at 10 mph and suddenly would not move any more when in gear while engine running normally. Following indicator lights were on: "vsc on", "vsc off", and "abs". Wheels were totally locked and would not turn and tires drug when vehicle pulled up flatbed tow truck with winch. Dealer diagnosed as "found brakes are locked on. Found master cylinder not releasing. Brake fluid in booster". Described to me by dealer on phone that pin in master cylinder froze for some unknown reason. Took almost 2 weeks for dealer to get part as national backorder (which could indicate a serious, frequent problem with this part). This could have killed me and my family if operating at highway speeds when pin locked. This appears to be identical to previous condition noted in odi claim 10215967 on same year and model of vehicle. This is an extremely dangerous condition, should not normally occur, but appears to be happening to more than one owner. *tr

Moving the driver's seat in my 2002 toyota avalon causes the air bag light to illuminate. Manually pushing a connector together beneath the seat - difficult as that is to reach - can extinguish the light on the console. I assume that when the light is on that the air bag restraint is inoperable. This situation is caused solely by the action of advancing or reversing the seat to allow for various size drivers. This dangerous action has occurred many times during the past 7 years that i have owned the vehicle. *tr

This is to report 3 incidents of unintended acceleration of my toyota avalon. In each incident, the car accelerated unexpectedly for a short time while driving about 55mph on a smooth level highway. The accelerations experienced can be best described as a "lunge". These incidents were no impact anomalies. They are being reported now for the first time to support your investigation. *tr

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 toyota avalon. While driving at any speed, the steering wheel became difficult to turn. When the steering is operative, it is very erratic and hard to control. The steering wheel over compensates and caused several near crashes. The contact took his vehicle to the dealer and they identified the failure as the steering knuckles. The dealer also stated that the steering column needed to be replaced. The vehicle is currently at the dealer for repair. The vin was unknown. The failure mileage was 42,213 and the current mileage was unavailable because the vehicle is at the dealer.

(02/19/2008) was driving my 2002 toyota avalon just before 9 am se in the l lane on rte.2 (ct) at 65 mph with the cruise control on. There was an obstruction in the l lane so i put on my signal, pushed on my brakes and proceeded into the r lane. Instead of slowing down, my vehicle continued to speed up. I lost control of the vehicle depits having both feet on the brakes and both hands on the steering wheel. I was swerving from lane to lane in rush hour traffic attempting to avoid the other vehicles. After about a mile, i was able to steer the vehicle into the r guardrail, enabling me to keep the car straight (and out of traffic) so i could use one hand to shift into neutral to stop the vehicle. The entire passenger side of my vehicle was ripped off and strewn along the r shoulder of the highway for about 1/4 mile. The vehicle was totaled and i was fortunate to not hit another car nor suffer any serious injury. Obviously, the failure occurred only once. *tr

While driving 10mph, car suddenly stops, motor running normally. Collared pin in master cylinder failed causing brakes to seize with abs and asc failure. If i had been on a freeway, i would surely have been backended or skidded on ice out of control with no way to recover. *tr

Shift cable would not allow me to put transmission in first or 2nd gear. *tr

Master cylinder seized up and was unable to move vehicle. *tr

2002 toyota avalon experienced unintended acceleration as it was in the process of being parked in residential garage resulting in damage to the vehicle and garage. Stomping brake resulted in stopping against the concrete step up from the garage floor. Local toyota service department was called. Responder indicated they had never heard of any kind of issue with the vehicle that could have caused this. Insurance company rep indicated no history of such an occurrence when claim was filed. Still paying surcharge on insurance coverage for accident. Three year old granddaughter in back seat at the time. Occasional surging feeling when stopped in traffic with foot on brake led to habit of keeping further back from vehicle in front as a precaution. *tr

In 2007 my 2002 toyota avalon had a serious accident due to sudden acceleration. I was parallel parking, heading slowly forward at no more than 1 or 2 mph when the car suddenly took off. My car struck the car in front of me, careened across the road and sidewalk, and crashed into a truck parked in a driveway across the street. Fortunately no body was hurt but people could have been killed especially if there had been pedestrians in the way. As you might expect, i was very shaken. My car was "totaled" and my insurance company said it had to hold me at fault because toyota refused to take responsibility. I am convinced this was a problem of sudden acceleration not having anything to do with a sticking gas pedal as i was barely going forward. I believe that the sudden acceleration problem in toyota vehicles should be further investigated and not confined to the recalled models. I would appreciate a response to this email. *tr

Air bag light stay on all the time . Dealer cannot fix it.

I purchased a certified used car from ira toyota and since i've owned it 4 things have never worked: 1. The seat belts always stick and have been replaced and still do not work. 2. The driver's seat does not move forward and back. The dealer looked at it more than twice and still will not fix it. 3. The steering wheel does not turn smoothly and the dealer does not know why. 4. The vehicle continuously turns to the left, even after all new, superior wheels and tires, new struts and two front end alignments. The dealer: ira toyota could find nothing wrong. *tr

My 2002 toyota avalon gas pedal accelerated at a fast speed on its own motion while i was exiting from the 405 freeway on to harbor boulevard located in costa mesa, ca, in 2007 on my way to my home . There was no way that i could stop the car with the brakes or the gas pedal. Only by the grace of god was i able to somehow swerve off the exit and into and iceplant field that slowed the vehicle down when i put the ignition in neutral. The car stopped when it plowed in to a mound of planting soil and the engine died. I took the car to orange coast auto repair who were unable to determine what caused this defect after extensive tests. Toyota has acknowledged that the 2002 has the same gas pedal and other equipment as the 2005-2010 avalons but has not todate recalled any earlier avalons than the 2005s. If not for the iceplant field, both me and the occupants of one of the other cars stopped at the stop sign in front of me would have been seriously injured or died. I want toyota to recall my 2002 avalon and make rectifying equipment changes so i can drive the car without fear of injuring or killing myself and others. In fact, toyota for some unknown reason (probably economical ) is not recalling all avalons with the same defective equipment. *tr

Tl* - the contact called regarding the 2002 toyota avalon. The contact was traveling at 25 mph when all four wheels locked. The road conditions were slippery. The vehicle did not lose power. There were no warning indicators. The failure mileage was 95,000. The vehicle would not go forward or in reverse gear. The vehicle had to be towed on a flat bed truck. The toyota dealer determined the abs actuator failed. *ak

I was driving on the high way with cruise control set to 65 mph. When i tapped on the brake to reset the cruise control, not only that the car did not slow down, it actually picked up the speed and started turning around all over the high way in a big 's' shape. Neither the brake nor the steering wheel was functioning. The car was totally out of my control. The car eventually stopped after hitting the side rail on the road. The weather was good and the road was clear. As an engineer, i suspect the electronic sensor(s) of the car was the cause of the malfunctioning. *tr

The care would accelerate without input from the driver. *nm

Oil gelling or sludge causing engine seizure. Confirmed by identifix, kelly bluebook, and edmunds.Com. Toyota extending warranty for 2yrs and advising more frequent oil changes. Avalon brought to dealership 8 times and charged approx 800.00 for problem. Advised letter not resolved. Advised to go to class action suite destrehan, la. Given run around. Have lexus with same problem, computer was changed and no further problem. Suggest toyota avoiding expensive repairs and request return of my money. *tr

Srs airbag light blinking on. 11/3/06 brought to dealer to check out, pulled failure code B0116 for left hand squib, checked easily accessible connectors all ok at this time. Cleared code and rechecked ok now light out. Cost $44.89 told if light returns will need further diagnosis. 11/8/06 srs airbag light back on. *jb

Had driven about 10 miles. Stopped at traffic signal and noticed smoke filling passenger compartment, thought it was from car in front which had excess exhaust, rolled down window and cleared air. Drove several hundred feet and noted car fill with smoke and also coming from hood area ,stopped lifted hood to see flames coming from area at front( ie;at radiator,fan,alternator,etc.).Difficulty calling fd,another truck stopped and poured 5 gal. Of water on flaming area, plastic still burned and fully put out with extinguisher. No one injured,but unable to drive vehicle,called toyota of greenville to pick up car. *nm

Air bag light stays on.

Dt: the contact states he was having trouble buckling driver's side seat belt. Upon inspection of the seat belt consumer noticed the bracket was disconnected from the bolt. The vehicle was repaired by the service dealer. T consumer asked if there could be something done to prevent the bolt from coming off, the service dealer informed him that if the bolt was installed correctly and this should not happen. Consumer felt the public should be aware that the bolt could come off from the seat belt bracket, causing the seat belt to be unsafe. It should periodically checked to make sure that the seat belt bolt was still in place. The consumer did not wish to provide the vin number. *ak

2002 toyota avalon developed repeat problems with the brake equipment.*mr after 4,000 or 5,000 miles, the consumer heard a strange noise coming from the front of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer 3 times before they finally agreed that the rotors needed to be replaced. The consumer stated whenever the vehicle was due for its 30,000 mile check-up he was always told the vehicle needed brakes. *jb

The driver's side inside door handle has been broken for over a month. To exit my car, i have to roll down the window and open the car using the outside latch. After recently being held up in traffic because of another car becoming engulfed in flames, i realized that in the event i was involved in an accident i would not be able to exit my car quickly. I have taken it into the dealership three times for repair. The first time it was misdiagnosed. The second and thrid times i was told they were sent the wrong part. I am now waiting for a back ordered part.

All four brake rotors prematurely wore out at 46,000 miles. Dealer was aware of this issue.*ak

On 8/9 i took my car to darcars for front brake service using a coupon for $64.95. Against my consent i was charged 368.27 the only additional work i consented to was an oil change that should not have been more than $7 as a result of the type of extended warranty i have.

I bought my vehicle brand new and have had continuing trouble with what i believe to be the fuel system. Upon acceleration the car will periodically (daily) sound like it is running on diesel fuel or as if water is mixed with the gasoline. I have taken the car back to the dealer on 4 different occasions, and they have not been able to recreate the noise and, therefore, claim they cannot fix the problem. *ak

Driving my 2002 avalon xls in a hard rain and in pooled street water, the wash from other cars caused my aircondition belt to get wet and the defogging system to go off immediately, result in a complete lack of visibility. The service managerat the dealers said this was a usual occurence and not a part failure, but an engineering defect, and not correctible.*ak

While driving, the consumer heard a grinding noise coming from the rear brakes. It was discovered that the brakes wore out prematurely. Dealership repaired the brakes, but the problem recurred. *ak the parking brakes had been adjusted on two occasions. The service dealer had no explanation as to why the rear brakes on the vehicle wore out before the front brakes. The consumer had spoken to two other avalanche owners who experienced the same problem, both of which, stated that the problem occurred around 25-31k miles. *sc *jb

I proceeded to back out of a parking space at comcast cable. As i was backing up i bumped into a utility pole in the middle of the lot. I applied the brakes and put to car into drive. When i lifted my foot off the brake the car lunged forward striking a parked vehicle and the building. The distance could not have been more than 10 to 15 feet. My wife and i heard a strange sound coming fron under the body of the car. I onformed my insurance company of the fact that some toyota models were being investigated for sudden acceleration problems. He said he would check it out. He informed me that my model(2002 avalon)was not affected. Nothing further was done other than to fix the damage to my car.*ak

2002 toyota avalon with engine, vsc on and vsc off check lights on. Sensor replaced and/or reset x5. Chronic sensor malfunction? 1st incident at approx 20,000 miles. Vehicle now has 65,000 miles. *tr

The vehicle was involved in a head on collision while driving 15 mph yet the frontal air bags did not deploy. *nlm

The rear view mirror vibrated, which caused the right side mirror to crack. *jb

The left front tire tread separated from the wheel. *jb

The steering wheel made a loud noise.*jb

When a left turn was made, and consumer straightened the wheel, the vehicle continued to turn to the left. *jb the vehicle constantly wandered from side to side, changed lanes without turning the steering wheel, and worsened when traveling farther in distance. The dealer thought it was a tire problem, but the problem continued. After numerous attempts to repair the wandering, the problem continued, and an experienced technician stated that the steering was the problem. The consumer requested to recieve their money back for the vehicle. Scc

I had a frontal crash that the hood was pushed in about 1 foot and right head light was out. It was not that big of crash, the air bag was not deployed. I was able to drive the car for about 5 miles home. The car was parked in the garage to wait for the insurance company inspector to come for claim inspection. However after about 3 full days, the car ignited itself and burned the whole car. Of course, i am fortunate that i was not in the car when the fire started but it is quite unreliable for the car to just ignite by itself. Shouldn't there some kind of safty feature for a slightly crashed car to be safe from catching a fire or this safty feature simply malfunctioned???

Driver's side seat belt did not retract. Manufacturer and dealer knew about the problem, but won't fix it. *ak the driver's door panel was damaged from the seat belt. The consumer requested that toyota repurchase the vehicle. *sc

When using the cruise control on a downgrade, the vehicle accelerates up to 20 mph. It seems as if you are going out of control. The vehicle does not downshift at all.

Michelin energy dot b97rewtx31, p205/60r16, xxe mvx4. Original tires on toyota, avalon, 2002 tire tread separated. *ak consumer states the tire that blewout had tread separation about 1-2 inches up the sidewall and it appears the blowout occurred in the sidewall. *slc

Dashboard lights reflected in windshield at eye level, causing a distraction while driving. Consumer contacted manufacturer, and manufacturer has been receiving complaints about the problem.*ak

At about 35 mph, i broad sided a car that ran a stop sign. The entire front end of my vehicle was crushed to the point of pushing the radiator into the engine block. The crash also colapsed the upper and lower portions of the unibody frame on the front end ($11,500 in damage). The front airbags never deployed. The sensors were even pushed back and dislocated. Passenger sustained three broken bones and bruises. Driver has whiplash. If there is ever a case that airbags should deploy, this is one. *ak

Picked up the car on 12/31/01 without any problems. Beginning 1/2/02, the front passenger srs warning light flashed on an off intermittently. Took to dealer 1/3/02. They determined that the wiring had been incorrectly routed under the front passenger bucket seat and had become crimped when the power seat was moved. The dealer is making the repairs which includes removal of the front passenger bucket seat. I am pleased with their response, but concerned that such a problem could occur and that there may very well be more cars with the same problem.*ak

2002 toyota avalon with unintended acceleration. Consumer states that vehicle accelerated unexpectedly on two occasions. *kb the consumer also stated the right passenger window lowered for no apparent reason. *jb

S10 appropriate handling re toyota recent recall customer service action fm owner of 2002 toyota avalon involved in accident in 2004 and the side airbags did not deploy. *kb

2002 toyota avalon experienced sudden acceleration after cruise control was disengaged.***no answer required***.*mr the first incident of sudden acceleration caused the vehicle to impact low trees branches which scratched the hood of the vehicle. The second incident resulted in no damage. *nm

The vehicle emits a strong sulfur odor inside the vehicle. The consumer has changed the type of gas used but the problem still exist. The dealer is aware of the problem. *ph *nlm

Email fwd fm fhwa request procedure for reporting matter re failure of side airbag to deploy *mr the side airbag failed to deploy when the vehicle was hit on the drivers side by a driver going through a red light. Scc

The vehicle was involved in a side collision, and the side air bags did not deploy. *mr *tt *jb