That's my car !!! But mine is 2001. Strong ...safe and durable !!! Bought it 9 years ago ...with good maintenance no need for a new car ...Its a really well made car !!! Don't care if I have to spend money on it...because it's worth it and its not even expensive...The best Formula Durable, strong, Safe and not costly maintenance in general !! Not many cars have this balance !!! 193 K miles !
My 01 Avalon ...and Yes is like tank! Recently....Just because I wanted ...I changed many VIP sensors ....tps...maf...crank case and camshaft sensors ...the vehicle speed sensor ....All OEM...plus ...OEM spark plugs and coils ....all vacuum valves ...OEM antifreeze ...All temperature Sensors ...OEM ...upgrade rims to 16 inches ...the car originaly accepted that ...i used KYB already assembly struts, radiator cap, water pump kit and belt ..new fuel injectors OEM, besides radiator and radiator cap , OEM PVC valve, and other parts ...all OEM...!! After 9 years this car never asked for anything ...so I decided to give the opportunity to run even much longer...better and smooth ...think it will last more!! Also have to say i used Amsoil engine oil...and transmission ....I have to say its a dream to drive this car 🚗 193k miles and no oil consumption !! Runs fast and strong I also removed that metal engine splash....bought a good flexible/hard plastic hot resistant....and built the same part un plastic with same shape using heat gun ...removed all possible heavy parts ...to save unnecessary weight ...i drive around 20-25 miles daily and just refill less than half gas tank every 2 weeks !! Will keep this car till parts appears !!
I have an '03 Avalon XL with the cloth bench seat interior and column shift. I drove my uncle to the dealer the year I graduated high school when he bought it. When he passed away, my aunt it to me. It only has 110k miles currently. It's a great vehicle; runs like a top. Mine is in a bit better shape than the one on the video, it lived in Ohio most of its life, but never saw a winter there; there is not a speck of rust anywhere on it. Same silver color.
Old school Toyota much better then New school Toyota. The man looks at a problem and he figures it out while Toyota service shops would struggle to solve a door switch.
I think generally 85 to 99 is peak Toyota in terms of reliability, but I'm pretty sure overall early 2000's are the best Toyota's. Some individual models/engines are just as reliable as the older simpler ones, and they win on fuel mileage to performance ratio, quality materials, everything feeling solidly and thoughtfully put together etc. etc.
@@brianwhitney9181 I do learn SO much from his problem-solving processes!! Sometimes it’s best to step back and think about stuff then come up with something to try.
I have to disagree, I have a new 24 Camry and the car is extremely well made, an absolute dream to drive. I've had a few early 2000s Camrys and the newest is far better. The thing about Toyota is they rarely change to weaker designs, they continue to improve.
@@donniev8181 I don't doubt it's an fantastic car today, but get back to us in 20 years time... I think that's where a lot of the concerns come from. A lot of newer car aspects look like they just don't lend themselves well to longevity without major issues/high cost, regardless of brand.
@@Sam-go3mb My 94 4Runner is a great vehicle. 1994 is immaculate condition with 187k miles. The problem is the dealer won't do the regularly scheduled valve adjustments anymore. Too old they say! Take it to the scrap yard. F them and Toyota in general if that's how they treat their customers
May of 2019 I bought a 2011 Yamaha Fz8 from my boss at the time son-in-law. When I went to his house to pick up the bike I saw a really nice 2003 Avalon sitting in his driveway. Asked him about it and said it's his daughter's car. She had inherited it from her grandmother who had passed away two years earlier. Told him if she ever wanted to sell it let me know. One year later he asked me if I was still interested in it. Bought it for 2500 bucks. Exterior was probably a 7 out of 10 interior 9/10 really beautiful car. It needed some wear and tear items replaced. radiator hoses motor mounts timing belt. Still own it and love it
Based on your recommendation I purchased a 2015 ES 350 with less than 50k miles this past May. Complete maintenance records. Changed all the fluids and hoping it will be the last car I purchase!
@@theaajourney9872 I paid 21k out the door. Was in the range they were going for in my area at the time. But with the maintenance records I decided it was worth it to me.
We have a 2002 Avalon. It had only 70k on it when we bought it 4 years ago. 145k now. Timing belt, radiator and valve cover gaskets replaced recently and other maintenance. Got at a great price. Drives like new.
I owned a 2000 Avalon. Drove like a Buick, soft ride. They had sludge issues. Traded in with 26,000 miles. Friend has a 2003 with 350,000 miles it's rusting but still runs. Timing belt motor, non interference I think.
Avalon are great cars, we got a 2005 4runner with 245k miles, had it since day 1 and it never gave us any major issues. Only wear and tear replacements and general maintenance. We messed up and never changed the transmission fluid because the service department at the dealer told us not to but it got to a point were we couldn’t change the fluid because it was too old but fast forward 19 years and it has the same fluid with no transmission problems whatsoever, shifts just fine. Goes to show you how remarkable toyota’s reliability is.
You are such a cool and level headed, calm mechanic. If I attempted the door lock replacement, I’d been throwing tools across the shop! You do fine work sir!
Had a 2008 Avalon. Sold it to my neighbor at 232,000 miles. She drove it to 320,000. Now her teenage daughter is driving it. I now drive a 2011 Avalon with 179,000!
I’ve got an 03 xls it just hit 296k miles best car I have ever had it looks to me it’s in better shape than this one here but I also live in the south and a rust free environment. I’m also an automotive technician myself, so I take extremely good care of my vehicle fluid interval, changes at the correct mileage.
1st time I ever watched more than 45 minutes of mechanic video... Impressive work and a learning situation for me... I am an older Toyota fan (I own 2 2005 Corollas).... Luckily, I live in the desert so no rust just sun and heat... People should watch these videos so when they go for service, they can minimize the possibility of getting ripped off.... A lot of what he did is not DIY for just anybody.... Take care of those old Toyotas !! They will serve you well...
My daughters 04 Avalon (inherited from Grandpa) makes those thumping noises in the rear suspension. This was good to watch so we know what to expect from the repair shop. Thanks for making these videos!
Older Camry p/s reservoir hoses are also notorious for leaking as well . Mine were not leaking but due to the high mileage I replaced the rubber hoses just to be on the safe side. In addition I replaced all the vacuum/lines as well. Love these older Toyota's. Thank you for another great 👍 video 🙏
My first car was a 98 Toyota Avalon XLS. That car holds a special place in the cars I’ve owned. And if I hadn’t sold it I’m sure I could still be driving it today. It was such a nice car. Haven’t owned a Toyota the past few cars, but I’m considering going back to the brand because I want something reliable that will take my miles (I drive a lot). Crazy thing is, these old Toyotas hold value so well. Clean ones especially.
My 2004 Avalon XLS has 290k miles and it runs like new! I religiously change oil (synthetic) every 5000 miles and transmission fluid every 30,000 miles. Timing belt/water pump every 90,000 miles. Same for my brother’s 2004 Avalon XLS which has 200k miles. The only thing I am not sure is when to change the alternator as a preventive measure: I think mine has the original one. My brother’s needed a replacement already. BTW, mine has the column shift and front bench seat, a rare feature.
If it ain’t broke, I wouldn’t worry about it. Drive it until the alternator goes or starts making weird bearing noises. As long as you replace the battery at the recommended intervals the alternator should have a hard life so it doesn’t work too hard to charge an old battery
Yep, don't worry about the alternator just keep the battery good and that alternator will probably keep lasting. Have 2 99 Toyotas both with their original alternators 👌
I bought one with 97k miles on it based off one of your recommendation videos in June of this year. Got it for $4,700 put tires, timing belt, water pump and changed some fluids and am in it for $6,700 total and am hoping it is the last car I ever have to buy. I do love it it drives so smooth and comfortable thanks for recommending this car.
Wish that Avalon was mine , they weren’t offered in the Uk , so I’ve got the next best thing a 2004 Camry , I’ve had it for three years and it’s totally reliable . Love ❤️ it to bits. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 great video many thanks 👍
Almost at 300K mi on my 2000 Avalon XLS, beautiful ride. Of course not without it's own issues. Power seats on the driver side doesn't work and of course some check engine lights. Too bad I live in CA so I have to get them resolved.
Fantastic video. I am addressing the same issues on my Camry. Clunking in the rear. I'm starting with the control arm bushings that are worn then re-evaluate the rest of the components. Toyota was able to get me the OEM bushings and screws. Awesome video friend 👏
I purchased one from the 2nd owner 04 higher mileage but had all the maintenance records to provide that was well maintained it now has 212k miles! Love this car
@MrRolandMichel badass! I got it from an older lady that only drove it from idaho to her second home in Arizona. Then back once winter was over. Meticulously kept. Best vehicle purchase I've made.
These are cloud like soft, surprisingly fast for their age and size, and just bulletproof. 4-speed AT is smooth and one can drive it all day long on the highway. Love it.
The 2014 Avalon ushered In a stiffer suspension for improved handling, but at the expense of a less comfortable ride. Toyota heard the feedback, and they modified the suspension in 2016 to tame some of the stiffness.
As a factory worker whom builds the rav4 in cambridge ontario, I enjoyed your commentary. I will say though that the hose clamps that you put on that Avalon are different from the ones we use. I've never seen that red cap that goes over the tabs, very interesting.
We had this exact car and we bought it new. It did have some electrical problems though but other than that, it was fantastic. Back seat leg room was amazing!
My '02 Sequoia is getting on towards 400k miles and everything still works as it should with barely any squeaks to speak of (sunroof makes a noise once in a while). It's an amazing (time) machine!
Have watched lots of your videos. You are my favorite go to guy when I need some info on my Toyota’s. Thank you for all hard work & dedication to these videos.
My family has 5 of this gen Avalons. We live in Rusty Land! 2 originated in Quebec (bad,bad,bad for rust), 1 from Florida (good), 1 from Ohio (bad) and mine from Toronto (pretty good). As it so happens the fuel tank straps arrived today for my brother's 2003, so in the morning I'll be switching out the leaky tank for a used one from my donor car and a new filler pipe as well. Great timing! All have had the PS lines replaced (also our 04 Sienna & 07 RX350). Sway bar links... done! Control arms and trailing arms done too. Knock sensors/OCV?... done. All have 300+km. Mine is @ 439km and all run great. I'm a huge fan of anti-seize grease. It's saved me many hours of grief. Thanks for featuring this great Toyota model.
I have a 2014 Avalon limited model with 185,000 km then nothing was needed besides Brakes, tires, dway bar links, serpentine belt and windshield. Such a great car planning to keep it till it dies and trying to get it to a million kilometers!
Too many people don’t know how to tighten a worm clamp. But nobody needs to adjust a spring clamp, it is the proper tension until it needs to be replaced due to rust.
I have the same car! 322000 miles, and hums like new. I am a diy person, so I have been into it quite a bit. Did valve cover gaskets 2019, which is a job. But I would love to buy another one. Mine is 0 % rust heartland driven. Awesome car. Thank you for this channel. My son and I live on it. His 1992 stick shift Camry just clocked 34200 miles, and drives like a champ. So does my wife’s 2005 sienna with 280000.
Dad bought one new in 2000, his first new car. Got the family through everyday and me through college. Totaled from someone pulling out in-front of him at 130,000 miles but he wasn't planning on replacing.
That was my baby. '04 column shifter with a split bench seat. Best car EVER. I've been missing it since the day I foolishly traded it in for an '08 with an undisclosed front end collision. My 2011 is good. But boy there's days I long for that '04.
best thing is you can still get OEM parts from the dealer on these cars. Many not so fortunate in other brands like VW/Audi. Love the simplicity of assembly with clamp and hose indicator you illustrated.
My 2014 Avalon Hybrid Limited has been an amazing car! I saw one in the Toyota dealership while having an oil change for my Camry and knew that was the car for me. I didn’t get it until 2017, but it has never disappointed me.
When drilling out a broken bolt use a lathe center drill for your first hole. They tend to stay centered on your center punched indent and aren't prone to walk off center like a regular drill bit does.
Love my '00 Avalon! Mines is in need of new steering hoses as this time. I changed one of the fuel tank straps when I bought the car 3 years ago and it was rusted to the tank, caused a pin hole leak when I pulled the strap away. JB weld product has been keeping it sealed thus far. The driver side strap wasn't as bad so I left it alone. I spray the undercarriage with fluid film every fall to prevent/slow further rusting.
great video, thanks for the proper way to fill the power steering fluid! Don't start the engine first, fill the fluid and turn the wheel a few times, then start the engine and top off the fluid.
I bought my 1999 Accord new and planned to keep it for at least 10 years. Its still going strong a quarter century later. Virtually problem free, I maintain it myself.
My 2005 Camry 2.4 has 226,000 miles on it. Only part to fail was 1 tail light bulb. Runs and looks perfect. I've done all the maintenance myself oil changes, antifreeze, brake pads, serpentine belt.
Agree completely. They are similar to Toyota pick-ups of the 1980s. I still see them around town carrying refrigerators, stoves and some being used by Gardners. Awesome 🛻 truck!!!
My 2002 Lexus ES300 also has the winter position wipers. i use it every winter and works as designed. Awesome video. Nice to see you clean out the areas from the leaking PS fluid. 99% of the shops just replace the parts and don't care about this. This video reminded me to have my fuel tanks traps checked next spring. Although I had my car undercoated with spray on WoolWax 3 years ago, just needs a look over.
I love installing new hoses and OEM clamps. I discovered the marks on the hoses when I replaced all 8 coolant hoses on my Miata with new OEM hoses and new OEM clamps. Came with those same clips holding the clamps open which I thought was very slick.
That metal cover is crazy! I have a 98 LS 400 and mine is plastic! I feel like I've been robbed! 😂 Great video as always! This is much watch RUclips for me as soon as you post new content! Thank you so much!
I have 2006 Lexus GS with 125K miles on it. Bought it used 13 years ago. California car. Zero rust. None. Runs and drives like a new car. Original everything...... Awesome if you can find one in good shape. (GS350 models especially)
@@charley95sheridan44 I fully understand. Both those cars are great if maintained. They will give excellent service and reliability over many years. The new models of all brands not so much.......
Like always excellent 👌👍 video quality and in detailed !! Always surprised by the good manners and respect in the way that this good man works and treats the car !! My best greetings and congratulations!! I wish to be closer to him...to always take my car there !!
I don't know an Avalon from a walnut, but I get entranced by these videos of a true professional, with more knowledge than is seemly, who just quietly and calmly takes situations that would have me (and maybe most of us) using words that would make a sailor blush, and gets it done. There is a Zen saying that the knife of a true butcher never dulls, because he knows exactly where to use that sharp knife to separate parts without dulling the edge. That is the level of skill here. I'll bet the tool truck driver has mixed feelings.
your method of power steering bleeding is good. wish i knew it earlier. but supposedly the pump is not really running dry anyway just because some bubbles are in there. i figured out a way to bleed the antifreeze too without getting air in the block - you open up a heater core hose, the hose which is highest above the engine, and push out the old stuff out of it from the filler end with a funnel. that way you dont have to waste time running the car and worrying about air stuck in the block. it wont get it all out though but good enough, its like a drain and fill routine like other fluids.
The best mechanic we all wish we had.
This guy is a sly operator.....don't be fooled by his "stuff".
@@bertplank9892 You couldn't be more wrong!
@@bertplank9892been watching this guy for a while and I never got that impression. He’s as solid as they come.
That's my car !!! But mine is 2001. Strong ...safe and durable !!!
Bought it 9 years ago ...with good maintenance no need for a new car ...Its a really well made car !!!
Don't care if I have to spend money on it...because it's worth it and its not even expensive...The best Formula Durable, strong, Safe and not costly maintenance in general !! Not many cars have this balance !!!
193 K miles !
I have a 2002 Lexus ES300 w 186k miles, Its a tank and super reliable, super quiet and luxurious.
My 01 Avalon ...and Yes is like tank!
Recently....Just because I wanted ...I changed many VIP sensors ....tps...maf...crank case and camshaft sensors ...the vehicle speed sensor ....All OEM...plus ...OEM spark plugs and coils ....all vacuum valves ...OEM antifreeze ...All temperature Sensors ...OEM ...upgrade rims to 16 inches ...the car originaly accepted that ...i used KYB already assembly struts, radiator cap, water pump kit and belt ..new fuel injectors OEM, besides radiator and radiator cap , OEM PVC valve, and other parts ...all OEM...!!
After 9 years this car never asked for anything ...so I decided to give the opportunity to run even much longer...better and smooth ...think it will last more!! Also have to say
i used Amsoil engine oil...and transmission ....I have to say its a dream to drive this car 🚗
193k miles and no oil consumption !! Runs fast and strong
I also removed that metal engine splash....bought a good flexible/hard plastic hot resistant....and built the same part un plastic with same shape using heat gun ...removed all possible heavy parts ...to save unnecessary weight ...i drive around 20-25 miles daily and just refill less than half gas tank every 2 weeks !!
Will keep this car till parts appears !!
Sold my 2006 Avalon back in 2010 ,but it's still on the road today ....should have kept it
I have a 2000 avalon that I bought 6 years ago for 2k with 91k miles, now it has over 303k miles. Never had it fail me.
Too bad you didn’t take better care of it. The engine bay is a disgrace.
Jose does such a good job on the camera. Thanks, guys, for this informative video!
Jose is an unsung hero of these videos. 👍
Still got my 99 Avalon. 410k miles. Everything still working but babying the transmission. Hopefully make it to 500k
Well your Avalon in the picture looks quite modern
@@serban2139thats a crown
@ that’s my wife’s car👍
Wow, good for you!
@@richlikeg3722cheers 🥂 to owning a vehicle with Demigod like ability to barely see mechanics for repair and near immortality.
There is something very special about a trusty old car.. Working on them is always puts a smile on my face. Thanks for sharing.
Yes my family loves it when I came in from the garage with oil and grease all over my hands and arms smelling like transmission fluid 😂😂😂
I have an '03 Avalon XL with the cloth bench seat interior and column shift. I drove my uncle to the dealer the year I graduated high school when he bought it. When he passed away, my aunt it to me. It only has 110k miles currently. It's a great vehicle; runs like a top. Mine is in a bit better shape than the one on the video, it lived in Ohio most of its life, but never saw a winter there; there is not a speck of rust anywhere on it. Same silver color.
Old school Toyota much better then New school Toyota. The man looks at a problem and he figures it out while Toyota service shops would struggle to solve a door switch.
I think generally 85 to 99 is peak Toyota in terms of reliability, but I'm pretty sure overall early 2000's are the best Toyota's. Some individual models/engines are just as reliable as the older simpler ones, and they win on fuel mileage to performance ratio, quality materials, everything feeling solidly and thoughtfully put together etc. etc.
@@brianwhitney9181 I do learn SO much from his problem-solving processes!! Sometimes it’s best to step back and think about stuff then come up with something to try.
I have to disagree, I have a new 24 Camry and the car is extremely well made, an absolute dream to drive. I've had a few early 2000s Camrys and the newest is far better. The thing about Toyota is they rarely change to weaker designs, they continue to improve.
@@donniev8181 I don't doubt it's an fantastic car today, but get back to us in 20 years time... I think that's where a lot of the concerns come from. A lot of newer car aspects look like they just don't lend themselves well to longevity without major issues/high cost, regardless of brand.
@@Sam-go3mb My 94 4Runner is a great vehicle. 1994 is immaculate condition with 187k miles. The problem is the dealer won't do the regularly scheduled valve adjustments anymore. Too old they say! Take it to the scrap yard. F them and Toyota in general if that's how they treat their customers
I always love your videos, but kudos to Jose. His camera work is really outstanding!!!!!!
Do I own a Toyota Avalon?
No.
Did I watch the whole video?
Yes!
Just a pleasure to see how this man works 👍
The master of calm at work :)
I have a 2009 Avalon and would agree, just crossed 210k miles, just brakes/tires and one wheel bearing
My daily driver is a 2004 Corolla. 112,000 miles. Best car I've ever owned.
I own a 98m Corolla 93500 ks still going strong.
Those are good cars but unfortunately don’t see them often anymore in the upper Midwest. All rusted out I guess.
May of 2019 I bought a 2011 Yamaha Fz8 from my boss at the time son-in-law. When I went to his house to pick up the bike I saw a really nice 2003 Avalon sitting in his driveway. Asked him about it and said it's his daughter's car. She had inherited it from her grandmother who had passed away two years earlier. Told him if she ever wanted to sell it let me know. One year later he asked me if I was still interested in it. Bought it for 2500 bucks. Exterior was probably a 7 out of 10 interior 9/10 really beautiful car. It needed some wear and tear items replaced. radiator hoses motor mounts timing belt. Still own it and love it
Toyota radiator hoses are designed for the life off the car.
@slalomking it's definitely a kind rubber
Hey I had a fazer 8 for 11 years! Put almost 70k km on it. Nice choice.
I two, 96 with 286,000 and 2011….. beautiful cars I really miss them…
Based on your recommendation I purchased a 2015 ES 350 with less than 50k miles this past May. Complete maintenance records. Changed all the fluids and hoping it will be the last car I purchase!
Congrats! What are these cars selling for these days?
I have an '07. great car, rough ride, however.
my 07 with rough ride is a corolla, not an avalon
Crazy part is, OP is 18 years old
@@theaajourney9872 I paid 21k out the door. Was in the range they were going for in my area at the time. But with the maintenance records I decided it was worth it to me.
These cars were great because they were basically a Lexus ES. Extremely high quality parts and impeccable build quality.
And unlike the ES, it didn’t have the funky/annoying hockey puck or track pad controller for the infotainment system.
We have a 2002 Avalon. It had only 70k on it when we bought it 4 years ago. 145k now. Timing belt, radiator and valve cover gaskets replaced recently and other maintenance. Got at a great price. Drives like new.
Just broken in
my 2005 Avalon had 119000 when I bought it in 2020. I love it.
I owned a 2000 Avalon. Drove like a Buick, soft ride. They had sludge issues. Traded in with 26,000 miles. Friend has a 2003 with 350,000 miles it's rusting but still runs. Timing belt motor, non interference I think.
20 years and that thing is CLEAN
Not really. Look at one from Colorado or Arizona. Zero rust
Avalon are great cars, we got a 2005 4runner with 245k miles, had it since day 1 and it never gave us any major issues. Only wear and tear replacements and general maintenance. We messed up and never changed the transmission fluid because the service department at the dealer told us not to but it got to a point were we couldn’t change the fluid because it was too old but fast forward 19 years and it has the same fluid with no transmission problems whatsoever, shifts just fine. Goes to show you how remarkable toyota’s reliability is.
My 2000 Toyota sienna has 300k miles. Runs excellent. Does not burn oil. Drives smoothly. Love my van
2003 224k miles here. I do love driving it but the exhaust is starting to rust away
You somehow got a good one because that 1st generation of vans had a big sludge problem with the M1zfe engine.
@theresedillon6717 Yeah you can tell on mine even after 3-5k miles how clean the oil comes out. Previous owner really took care of it.
You are such a cool and level headed, calm mechanic. If I attempted the door lock replacement, I’d been throwing tools across the shop! You do fine work sir!
My mom had this but eventually traded it in for a RAV4. I kind of wish I bought it from her. It drove so smooth
Had a 2008 Avalon. Sold it to my neighbor at 232,000 miles. She drove it to 320,000. Now her teenage daughter is driving it. I now drive a 2011 Avalon with 179,000!
I see you got a fancy new one 😂
Love the second gen. Especially if it’s got the front bench seat and the column shifter!
I’ve got an 03 xls it just hit 296k miles best car I have ever had it looks to me it’s in better shape than this one here but I also live in the south and a rust free environment. I’m also an automotive technician myself, so I take extremely good care of my vehicle fluid interval, changes at the correct mileage.
Like to watch how you tackle every job Ahmed with passion. I find it therapeutic. ❤
They are gems. My dad had one, now my nefew drives it. Still nice too. I have an 04 Vibe & 05 Tacoma. Both still awesome vehicles.
1st time I ever watched more than 45 minutes of mechanic video... Impressive work and a learning situation for me... I am an older Toyota fan (I own 2 2005 Corollas).... Luckily, I live in the desert so no rust just sun and heat... People should watch these videos so when they go for service, they can minimize the possibility of getting ripped off.... A lot of what he did is not DIY for just anybody.... Take care of those old Toyotas !! They will serve you well...
The 1995 6-cylnder Toyota Avalon's were the absolute best ever. Cheers!
My daughters 04 Avalon (inherited from Grandpa) makes those thumping noises in the rear suspension. This was good to watch so we know what to expect from the repair shop. Thanks for making these videos!
Older Camry p/s reservoir hoses are also notorious for leaking as well . Mine were not leaking but due to the high mileage I replaced the rubber hoses just to be on the safe side. In addition I replaced all the vacuum/lines as well. Love these older Toyota's. Thank you for another great 👍 video 🙏
No better way to spend an early Sunday morning; coffee and multitask watching TCCN on the PC & I Do Cars on the TV.
My first car was a 98 Toyota Avalon XLS. That car holds a special place in the cars I’ve owned. And if I hadn’t sold it I’m sure I could still be driving it today. It was such a nice car.
Haven’t owned a Toyota the past few cars, but I’m considering going back to the brand because I want something reliable that will take my miles (I drive a lot).
Crazy thing is, these old Toyotas hold value so well. Clean ones especially.
Currently sitting in my 99 Avalon XLS platinum edition, found it with 55K miles on it over 9 years ago for less than $7K😇
Crazy thing is, still probably worth 7k 😂. No such thing as depreciation haha
2004 Avalon... winter position wipers neat feature. That hood strut clamp to hold up hood very neat.
My 2004 Avalon XLS has 290k miles and it runs like new! I religiously change oil (synthetic) every 5000 miles and transmission fluid every 30,000 miles. Timing belt/water pump every 90,000 miles. Same for my brother’s 2004 Avalon XLS which has 200k miles. The only thing I am not sure is when to change the alternator as a preventive measure: I think mine has the original one. My brother’s needed a replacement already. BTW, mine has the column shift and front bench seat, a rare feature.
If it ain’t broke, I wouldn’t worry about it. Drive it until the alternator goes or starts making weird bearing noises. As long as you replace the battery at the recommended intervals the alternator should have a hard life so it doesn’t work too hard to charge an old battery
Shouldn’t***
Thanks for your advice, I much appreciate it!
Yep, don't worry about the alternator just keep the battery good and that alternator will probably keep lasting. Have 2 99 Toyotas both with their original alternators 👌
@@gwrider2146 Thank you also for this good advice. Much appreciated!
I bought one with 97k miles on it based off one of your recommendation videos in June of this year. Got it for $4,700 put tires, timing belt, water pump and changed some fluids and am in it for $6,700 total and am hoping it is the last car I ever have to buy. I do love it it drives so smooth and comfortable thanks for recommending this car.
Keep doing what you're doing! I just purchased $2k worth of wear and tear parts for the future before they're discontinued for my 14 RX.
Another good case for treating the undercarriage with fluid film, Rust Check etc to prevent fasteners seizing. Keeps bushings subtle too.
The maestro giving a master class
These are my favorite videos that you do! I always learn a ton of new stuff about older Toyotas when you do these repairs! Thank you!
Your the best and most honest
A real mechanic thank you for the content 🚘
Wish that Avalon was mine , they weren’t offered in the Uk , so I’ve got the next best thing a 2004 Camry , I’ve had it for three years and it’s totally reliable . Love ❤️ it to bits. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 great video many thanks 👍
The early 2000’s Avalon was a rebadged Lexus…total quality! Riding in my mother-in-laws was always a delight!!!
And some parts are interchangeable like 04 es330 the Camry the brake dust shields fit either
No. Lexus are made in Japan. Avalon is made in USA.
Camry stuff
I love my 2002 Avalon. It’s had a few issues such as valve cover leaks. But with normal maintenance it’s hard to beat for reliability. 205k.
We have a 2002. Love it.
If I had a Toyota I’d take my car to you. You do such good work.
Bro had one. Long time. Sold it. Gotta upgrade eventually.
Very nicely done, the induction heater was a great idea! Cheers
Almost at 300K mi on my 2000 Avalon XLS, beautiful ride. Of course not without it's own issues. Power seats on the driver side doesn't work and of course some check engine lights. Too bad I live in CA so I have to get them resolved.
Fantastic video. I am addressing the same issues on my Camry. Clunking in the rear. I'm starting with the control arm bushings that are worn then re-evaluate the rest of the components. Toyota was able to get me the OEM bushings and screws.
Awesome video friend 👏
I purchased one from the 2nd owner 04 higher mileage but had all the maintenance records to provide that was well maintained it now has 212k miles! Love this car
I'm not a mechanic and do not work on my cars but to me this is the most enjoyable content
I just picked up a 2002 avalon column shift with spoiler JBL all the bells and whistles one owner 100k miles. This video makes me very hopeful.
Yay! I have a 2004 Avalon XLS. I bought it used two years ago with 35780 miles. Looking forward to watching this video. I know it needs rear shocks.
I just learned even more about my own car 2 years later that’s wild.
The Avalons were solid as fuq.
I bought this Avalon 2004 XLS from the end of 2013 (90k miles), and still strong now (200k miles). This one got good insulation, quiet, and reliable.
I have a 2001 avalon with 103k , thing is mint
Hey there, me too! Thought I was the only one with that year and such low mileage. I plan on keeping her for quite a while.
@MrRolandMichel badass! I got it from an older lady that only drove it from idaho to her second home in Arizona. Then back once winter was over. Meticulously kept. Best vehicle purchase I've made.
Ì inherited my 2001 avalon with 7 3000 mi. Now has 119000. Interior almost perfect, paint looks like new. drives really smooth.
These are cloud like soft, surprisingly fast for their age and size, and just bulletproof. 4-speed AT is smooth and one can drive it all day long on the highway. Love it.
The 2014 Avalon ushered In a stiffer suspension for improved handling, but at the expense of a less comfortable ride. Toyota heard the feedback, and they modified the suspension in 2016 to tame some of the stiffness.
I have a 2003 Avalon with 157.000 miles on it. One of the best Toyotas I have ever owned. Everything works, no leaks & the car still runs like new.
As a factory worker whom builds the rav4 in cambridge ontario, I enjoyed your commentary. I will say though that the hose clamps that you put on that Avalon are different from the ones we use. I've never seen that red cap that goes over the tabs, very interesting.
We had this exact car and we bought it new.
It did have some electrical problems though but other than that, it was fantastic.
Back seat leg room was amazing!
I am striving to have as much patience and resolve like you!
My '02 Sequoia is getting on towards 400k miles and everything still works as it should with barely any squeaks to speak of (sunroof makes a noise once in a while). It's an amazing (time) machine!
Have watched lots of your videos. You are my favorite go to guy when I need some info on my Toyota’s. Thank you for all hard work & dedication to these videos.
My family has 5 of this gen Avalons. We live in Rusty Land! 2 originated in Quebec (bad,bad,bad for rust), 1 from Florida (good), 1 from Ohio (bad) and mine from Toronto (pretty good).
As it so happens the fuel tank straps arrived today for my brother's 2003, so in the morning I'll be switching out the leaky tank for a used one from my donor car and a new filler pipe as well. Great timing!
All have had the PS lines replaced (also our 04 Sienna & 07 RX350). Sway bar links... done! Control arms and trailing arms done too.
Knock sensors/OCV?... done.
All have 300+km. Mine is @ 439km and all run great.
I'm a huge fan of anti-seize grease. It's saved me many hours of grief. Thanks for featuring this great Toyota model.
I have an 04 Solara, 117k miles. Think it has the same engine. Love it!
I have a 2014 Avalon limited model with 185,000 km then nothing was needed besides Brakes, tires, dway bar links, serpentine belt and windshield. Such a great car planning to keep it till it dies and trying to get it to a million kilometers!
Too many people don’t know how to tighten a worm clamp. But nobody needs to adjust a spring clamp, it is the proper tension until it needs to be replaced due to rust.
I have the same car! 322000 miles, and hums like new. I am a diy person, so I have been into it quite a bit. Did valve cover gaskets 2019, which is a job. But I would love to buy another one. Mine is 0 % rust heartland driven. Awesome car. Thank you for this channel. My son and I live on it. His 1992 stick shift Camry just clocked 34200 miles, and drives like a champ. So does my wife’s 2005 sienna with 280000.
Dad bought one new in 2000, his first new car. Got the family through everyday and me through college. Totaled from someone pulling out in-front of him at 130,000 miles but he wasn't planning on replacing.
That was my baby. '04 column shifter with a split bench seat. Best car EVER. I've been missing it since the day I foolishly traded it in for an '08 with an undisclosed front end collision. My 2011 is good. But boy there's days I long for that '04.
I always clean the area as I go. Soooo much more pleasant to work with.
best thing is you can still get OEM parts from the dealer on these cars. Many not so fortunate in other brands like VW/Audi. Love the simplicity of assembly with clamp and hose indicator you illustrated.
My 2014 Avalon Hybrid Limited has been an amazing car! I saw one in the Toyota dealership while having an oil change for my Camry and knew that was the car for me. I didn’t get it until 2017, but it has never disappointed me.
I'm very impressed. Nothing is done half assed
When drilling out a broken bolt use a lathe center drill for your first hole. They tend to stay centered on your center punched indent and aren't prone to walk off center like a regular drill bit does.
What is, and where do you get "lathe center drills"??
Out of topic, I would love a collaboration between you and Scotty Kilmer, 2 of the BEST mechanics on earth today. Please make it happen.
Love my '00 Avalon! Mines is in need of new steering hoses as this time. I changed one of the fuel tank straps when I bought the car 3 years ago and it was rusted to the tank, caused a pin hole leak when I pulled the strap away. JB weld product has been keeping it sealed thus far. The driver side strap wasn't as bad so I left it alone. I spray the undercarriage with fluid film every fall to prevent/slow further rusting.
The door closing was solid as rock, the new Toyotas made outside of Japan when you close the door feels like is just a tuna can door
great video, thanks for the proper way to fill the power steering fluid! Don't start the engine first, fill the fluid and turn the wheel a few times, then start the engine and top off the fluid.
kudos to the camera man...putting us right in the middle of the job!
I bought my 1999 Accord new and planned to keep it for at least 10 years. Its still going strong a quarter century later. Virtually problem free, I maintain it myself.
My 2005 Camry 2.4 has 226,000 miles on it. Only part to fail was 1 tail light bulb. Runs and looks perfect.
I've done all the maintenance myself oil changes, antifreeze, brake pads, serpentine belt.
I have two Corollas, 2001 and 2002 models. Both have driven 420,000 km and the journey continues and continues...
Agree completely. They are similar to Toyota pick-ups of the 1980s. I still see them around town carrying refrigerators, stoves and some being used by Gardners. Awesome 🛻 truck!!!
I wish my mechanic were this gentle to my interior.
My 2002 Lexus ES300 also has the winter position wipers. i use it every winter and works as designed. Awesome video. Nice to see you clean out the areas from the leaking PS fluid. 99% of the shops just replace the parts and don't care about this. This video reminded me to have my fuel tanks traps checked next spring. Although I had my car undercoated with spray on WoolWax 3 years ago, just needs a look over.
Imagine having your 20 year old 1mzfe serviced by
one of the best Mr Ahmed.
I love installing new hoses and OEM clamps. I discovered the marks on the hoses when I replaced all 8 coolant hoses on my Miata with new OEM hoses and new OEM clamps. Came with those same clips holding the clamps open which I thought was very slick.
That metal cover is crazy! I have a 98 LS 400 and mine is plastic! I feel like I've been robbed! 😂 Great video as always! This is much watch RUclips for me as soon as you post new content! Thank you so much!
I have 2006 Lexus GS with 125K miles on it. Bought it used 13 years ago. California car. Zero rust. None. Runs and drives like a new car. Original everything...... Awesome if you can find one in good shape. (GS350 models especially)
I saw a video of Lexus hoverboard like back to the future.
I have a 18 GS I bought new that I plan to keep forever with 15k on the clock in mint condition. My daily is a 14 RX.
@@charley95sheridan44 I fully understand. Both those cars are great if maintained. They will give excellent service and reliability over many years. The new models of all brands not so much.......
Like always excellent 👌👍 video quality and in detailed !!
Always surprised by the good manners and respect in the way that this good man works and treats the car !!
My best greetings and congratulations!!
I wish to be closer to him...to always take my car there !!
Just found my brother a 2004 avalon with 90k miles in beautiful shape with a 60/40 split in the front seat, shifter on the column!
Good job AMD. Love your patience and attention to detail in all your repairs of all your cars. 😎😎👍👍Wish more mechanics have the same ethics as you 👏👏
I don't know an Avalon from a walnut, but I get entranced by these videos of a true professional, with more knowledge than is seemly, who just quietly and calmly takes situations that would have me (and maybe most of us) using words that would make a sailor blush, and gets it done. There is a Zen saying that the knife of a true butcher never dulls, because he knows exactly where to use that sharp knife to separate parts without dulling the edge. That is the level of skill here. I'll bet the tool truck driver has mixed feelings.
❤ congratulations... regards from Athens Greece..😊
your method of power steering bleeding is good. wish i knew it earlier. but supposedly the pump is not really running dry anyway just because some bubbles are in there. i figured out a way to bleed the antifreeze too without getting air in the block - you open up a heater core hose, the hose which is highest above the engine, and push out the old stuff out of it from the filler end with a funnel. that way you dont have to waste time running the car and worrying about air stuck in the block. it wont get it all out though but good enough, its like a drain and fill routine like other fluids.
My mom just bought a 2011 avalon with only 46000 miles this year. Great car.