Model-year record

2021 Toyota Avalon
See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.
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Complaints filed
27
Reports to NHTSA, 2021
Safety recalls
2
NHTSA campaigns on record
NHTSA crash test
Overall NCAP rating
Combined MPG
25
EPA estimate
Known issues
Air Bags issues lead owner complaints (67% of 27 reports), followed by vehicle speed control (11%).
Share of all 27 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11592423, ODI 11730274, ODI 11699477, ODI 11678629, ODI 11678360.
Individual complaint reports(27)
Showing the 27 most recent reportsAir BagsApr 2026 · ODI 11730274Details +Close −
We have received a recall for the sensors and airbag on our car back in December of 2023. Every time we call the dealership they tell us they can't get a send because the parts are not available. I cannot seem to get any movement with this. I've tried to contacting Toyota corporate but their website leaves much to be desired to contact anybody about this. So I am here asking for you to help me. I think waiting for over 2 years for a safety recall is beyond reasonable. We need to find some remedies.
- Reported
- Apr 2026
- Incident date
- Dec 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsNov 2025 · ODI 11699477Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Avalon. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (AIR BAGS); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the air bag warning light was intermittently illuminated. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown.
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Jan 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsAug 2025 · ODI 11678629Details +Close −
There is no remedy available to fix the OCS sensor in front passenger seat of our 2021 Toyota Avalon. We are scared to drive it. What are our options since Toyota will not help.
- Reported
- Aug 2025
- Incident date
- Aug 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsAug 2025 · ODI 11678360Details +Close −
My vehicle is under Safety Recall 23V865 (Toyota dealer reference 23TB15) due to potentially defective Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensors in the front passenger seat, which may prevent the airbag from deploying properly. The recall was issued in December 2023, and as of August 2025, there is still no available remedy. Toyota originally estimated a fix by Q3 of 2024, but it is now overdue. This unresolved issue puts passenger safety at risk in the event of a crash. I have contacted dealerships and checked for updates, but no solution has been provided. I believe this delay is unacceptable for a critical safety defect and request NHTSA to investigate the remedy timeline and pressure Toyota to provide a fix or alternative solution.
- Reported
- Aug 2025
- Incident date
- Dec 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Vehicle Speed ControlMay 2025 · ODI 11659486Details +Close −
Cruise control stopped working while driving interstate speed. Would not work and all lights on dashboard came on . Proceeded to Nearest dealership and was informed that I needed a brake switch. Did not fix the problem. Have been informed that I need a wiring harness! About to spend a total of 400.00
- Reported
- May 2025
- Incident date
- May 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsApr 2025 · ODI 11654766Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Avalon. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Apr 2025
- Incident date
- Apr 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMar 2025 · ODI 11647108Details +Close −
SAFETY DEFECT IN FRONT PASSENGER SEAT NOT REMEDIED IN OVER ONE YEAR. TOYOTA IS CLEARLY NOT GOING TO FIX SAFETY PROBLEM AS IT WILL COST MORE TO REMEDY THAN THE COST OF DEATHS AND INJURIES.
- Reported
- Mar 2025
- Incident date
- Mar 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMar 2025 · ODI 11646823Details +Close −
I am writing to formally express my deep concern and dissatisfaction regarding the unresolved airbag recall on my 2021 Toyota Avalon. It has now been over a year since this recall was issued, and despite my repeated efforts to resolve the issue, Toyota has yet to provide a viable solution. This delay has left me feeling unsafe, not only for myself but also for my [XXX] and [XXX] children. The safety of my family is at risk, and I can no longer accept this situation. For more than a year, I have been forced to use a loaner vehicle, which is both financially draining and time-consuming. This has caused significant disruptions in my personal and professional life, taking time away from my work and family. It is unacceptable that I have had to continue using a loaner vehicle for this extended period, especially when the issue remains unresolved. Furthermore, my attempts to resolve this matter with Toyota have been met with rude and unhelpful responses from your service agencies. The lack of support and professionalism has only intensified my frustration. Given that it has been over a year without any solution, I no longer find it acceptable to simply wait for a fix that may or may not come in a timely manner. At this point, I am requesting that my 2021 Toyota Avalon be replaced immediately. The ongoing delay and lack of resolution have made it clear that repairing the vehicle is no longer a satisfactory solution. The safety of my family is my top priority, and I demand a prompt and appropriate resolution to this matter. Please consider this an urgent request for action. I expect a response and a clear plan of action within the next [reasonable timeframe, e.g., 5 business days]. If this matter is not resolved, I will be forced to explore further actions, including seeking legal counsel. Thank you for your immediate attention to this issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Reported
- Mar 2025
- Incident date
- Mar 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsFeb 2025 · ODI 11644783Details +Close −
See attached document for complaint.
- Reported
- Feb 2025
- Incident date
- Feb 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJan 2025 · ODI 11638832Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Avalon Hybrid. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Jan 2025
- Incident date
- Jan 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJan 2025 · ODI 11635159Details +Close −
While driving our 2021 Avalon on a busy interstate,the engine failed on us unexpectantly. This cathostrophic failure without warning startled my finance and ruined xmas holidays. The car was towed to a local Toyota dealership who diagnosed the issue as low oil pressure which prevented oil reaching the top engine ultimately collapsing the rocker arm. Oddly enough the technician shared it was not low on oil nor were there any signs of le. We were informed the engine must be replaced. We purchased the vehicle with 56K and just hit 69K. We've been responsible with routine maintenance and have service reports to support services performed from the original owner and us. When contacting Toyota to report the issue, the advocates and resolution team did not offer any service campaigns or good will programs to cover any out of pocket expenses. They acted as if we should hold the dealership who sold us the car liable ignoring any possibility of a defective engine. There is NO good reason why any engine with only 69k miles should fail this sudden. There are similar reports of class action suits currently against Toyota on other engines and they ignore all accounts of owning any portion of the repair due to the car not being sold from a Toyota dealership and being over the 60k power train warranty. Regardless of the warranty the manufacturer name is on the vehicle and all accounts of this issue are indicators of a defect. Our voices may have not be strong enough for them to make us whole at this moment. Not only was this a dangerous situation for my family, but the expenses to replace the engine in such a short time is ridiculous. A company with such a high reputation not to mention high revenue and EBITA should not ignore the voice of the customer. My hope is other customers unite and voice any similar concern similar to ours. This experience has changed my mind how much I value Toyota.There are core principles & expectations car manufacturers should stand by.
- Reported
- Jan 2025
- Incident date
- Dec 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsDec 2024 · ODI 11630065Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Avalon Hybrid. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Dec 2024
- Incident date
- Dec 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsNov 2024 · ODI 11626835Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Avalon Hybrid. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the SRS warning light was illuminated. Additionally, an audible chime was temporarily sounded. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The dealer determined that the failure was related to the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. 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 failure mileage was approximately 29,086. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Nov 2024
- Incident date
- Dec 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsNov 2024 · ODI 11626075Details +Close −
SEATS ARE NOT REGISTERING FOR AIR BAG AND THE MIDDLE BACK SEAT BELT ALARM GOES OFF SAYING TO PUT SEAT BELT ON, BUT NO ONE IS SITTING IN BACK SEAT. SO WHILE I'M DRIVING I HAVE TO PULL OVER AND PLUG SEAT BELT IN TO GET THE SEATBELT WARNING SOUND TO STOP. THE SEATBELT IS NOT REGISTERING IN THE BACK SEAT AND THE FRONT SEAT IS NOT REGISTERING SOMEONE IS SITTING THERE FOR THE AIRBAG. IT DOESN'T REGISTER MY GRANDSON OR MY SON, WHICH IS DANGEROUS. KIDS ARE INVOLVED.
- Reported
- Nov 2024
- Incident date
- Oct 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsOct 2024 · ODI 11622606Details +Close −
Dec 20,2023 Manufacturer Recall Number23TB15 NHTSA Recall Number23V865 Recall StatusRecall Incomplete, remedy not yet available When will this be resolved? Can Toyota inspect my vehicle now?
- Reported
- Oct 2024
- Incident date
- Oct 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsOct 2024 · ODI 11619388Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Avalon. The contact received a notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Oct 2024
- Incident date
- Oct 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsOct 2024 · ODI 11618412Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Avalon Hybrid. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Oct 2024
- Incident date
- Dec 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJul 2024 · ODI 11603805Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Avalon. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Jul 2024
- Incident date
- Jul 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJun 2024 · ODI 11592423 · crashDetails +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Avalon. The contact stated that while driving at 55 MPH, another vehicle in the left lane violently merged into the lane in front. In an effort to avoid crashing into the vehicle, the contact merged into the right lane however crashed into the rear driver's side of another vehicle. No air bags deployed. The vehicle was damaged due to the impact on the front passenger side. A police report was filed. No injuries were sustained. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The contact was unaware if the vehicle was diagnosed. The vehicle was repaired for cosmetic damages. The contact was relating the air bags failure to the NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags) letter he received. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 35,000. The VIN was unavailable.
- Reported
- Jun 2024
- Incident date
- Feb 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash
Air BagsApr 2024 · ODI 11582130Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Avalon Hybrid. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Apr 2024
- Incident date
- Apr 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Vehicle Speed ControlFeb 2023 · ODI 11505882Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Avalon. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle failed to properly accelerate and stalled. The contact restarted the vehicle, and the vehicle drove as designed. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and a claim was submitted. The approximate failure mileage was 15,000.
- Reported
- Feb 2023
- Incident date
- Nov 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Vehicle Speed ControlOct 2022 · ODI 11489699Details +Close −
Stopped working with a message ' radar control in not available'
- Reported
- Oct 2022
- Incident date
- Oct 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainAug 2022 · ODI 11479951Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Avalon. The contact stated while diving approximately 50 MPH, the engine and transmission warning lights illuminated. The contact also stated that the windshield had detached from the frame. The contact stated that the rear doors were failing to close correctly. The contact stated the vehicle would roll with the brake pedal depressed before coming to a stop. While driving approximately 75 MPH, the steering wheel fractured and the air bags inadvertently deployed. Additionally, the headlamps and turn signals also failed to operate as needed. The vehicle was returned to the dealer who stated that front door master switch, the pillar and racket, the brakes, the headlamps, and turn signals needed to be repaired or replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 2,500.
- Reported
- Aug 2022
- Incident date
- Nov 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
TiresMay 2022 · ODI 11465017Details +Close −
Bridgestone Turanza EL440BW 235 45R18 94V is original equipment on my 2021 Toyota Avalon Hybrid. Mileage at the time of the incident was 11398. I saw what appeared to be splitting or separation of the lower depth of the tread. No loss of pressure. I brought it to the Toyota Dealer to check. They insisted I must have hit something and would not consider it a manufactures warranty. I replaced the tire out of safety concerns. I do not recall hitting or going over anything. I am attaching photos of the condition. I replaced the one tire with the same make and model but remain concerned that splitting of the tread could be dangerous. And still have 4 like tires on the car.
- Reported
- May 2022
- Incident date
- May 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemMar 2022 · ODI 11456819 · crashDetails +Close −
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Avalon HV. The contact stated that while driving, all the instrument control panel lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer eight or nine times where it was diagnosed there was moisture in the brakes, the brake assembly, sensor harness, sensor in the grill, gear shifter, and hybrid sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. However, failure recurred. The contact stated that while driving the instrument panel, warning lights illuminated, and the hybrid system overheated. The pull over somewhere safe message was displayed. The steering wheel was stiff. The brake pedal was stiff and failed to depress. The contact was unable to control the vehicle and drove into a ditch was air borne and cross to the other side of road. The contact was able to drive away from the scene, but the vehicle shutdown and failed to start. The vehicle was towed to contact's place of business. There were no reported injuries, fire or air bag deployment. There was a state trooper on the scene but there was no police report filed. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 800.
- Reported
- Mar 2022
- Incident date
- Oct 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash
Back Over PreventionJan 2022 · ODI 11449029Details +Close −
The Rear Cross Traffic Warning signal is installed behind rear head rest, which muffles the alert sound to barely audible, even when setting is on high. Vanandergriff Toyota dealership in Arlington, Tx., verified this information to me after bringing my car in four times for service because I was not being warned of persons and vehicles passing behind me. I've called Toyota's home office and told nothing can be done, as it was installed this way, although I am still asking they remove muffling material or change location of warning equipment. It is very dangerous, as persons and cars are not always visible due to parking location or blind spots. This should be a recall item. All other warning signals on front of car work properly. I was told by company representative to just use drive-through parking! Consumer contacted Toyota customer service and the dealership in Arlington, Tx. where it was purchased. Consumer was told nothing can be done to fix the problem.
- Reported
- Jan 2022
- Incident date
- Jan 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesJan 2021 · ODI 11389353Details +Close −
ON EVERY AVALON 2021 I HAVE DRIVEN OR THE DEALERSHIP HAS DRIVEN THERE IS A THUNK WHEN BRAKING. EVERY CAR EVERY TIME. A TECH CASE WAS OPENED AT WESLEY CHAPEL TOYOTA AND TOYOTA OF TAMPA BAY 01- 21-2021 NEW CAR WAS PURCHASED 01-13-2021
- Reported
- Jan 2021
- Incident date
- Jan 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Recalls(2)
Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.
Air Bags · 20V734000Details +Close −
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Toyota Avalon and 2020 Avalon Hybrid, RAV4, and RAV4 Hybrid vehicles. Breakaway pins within the steering column, designed to absorb energy and reduce injury during a crash, could have been damaged during production, possibly affecting the performance of the driver's air bag in the event of a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk: In the event of a crash, an air bag that does not perform as designed can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering column, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TB17/20TA17.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air Bags · 23V865000Details +Close −
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
Risk: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed in February 2024. Some final remedy owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. Letters will continue to be mailed in phases through January 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.
Open full NHTSA recall record →A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.
Investigations
0 NHTSA investigations on record
No investigations are on record as of Jul 2026. An empty record is not a clean bill of health.
Crash-test ratings
2021 Toyota AVALON 4 DR FWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
2021 Toyota AVALON 4 DR AWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
Fuel economy by trim
| Trim | Engine | Drivetrain | Transmission | City | Hwy | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avalon | 3.5L 6-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 22 | 31 | 25 |
EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.
Before you buy
Useful next checks
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Compare the year-by-year record
Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.
2021 Toyota Avalon: frequently asked
What does the complaint record show for the 2021 Toyota Avalon?
Owners filed 27 NHTSA complaints about the 2021 Toyota Avalon. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.
What are the most common problems on the 2021 Toyota Avalon?
The most-reported problem areas are Air Bags (67% of complaints) and vehicle speed control (11%).
How many recalls does the 2021 Toyota Avalon have?
2 recalls have been issued that affect the 2021 Toyota Avalon, covering components such as air bags. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.
What gas mileage does the 2021 Toyota Avalon get?
The EPA rates the 2021 Toyota Avalon at 25 mpg combined.