2021 Toyota Avalon Problems: 1 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2021 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2021 Toyota Avalon has 1 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. Across all issues, repair costs range from $200 to $1,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 1 Known Issues
On the 2005-2022 Toyota Avalon, the front strut mount bearings on the Avalon wear out and develop a popping, creaking, or clunking noise when turning the steering wheel, particularly at low speeds and when turning while stationary (like parking maneuvers). The bearing allows the strut to rotate as the wheels turn — when it wears, metal-on-metal contact creates the noise. The noise is most noticeable in cold weather and first thing in the morning. The issue affects all generations of the Avalon but is most common after 60,000-80,000 miles.
Common Symptoms
- Popping or clunking noise when turning steering wheel
- Creaking sound during slow-speed turns
- Noise from front of vehicle when parking
- Steering feels rough or catches during turns
- Noise worse in cold weather or first drive of the day
How to Fix
Replace the front strut mounts and bearings ($80-$150 per side for parts). The strut must be removed and disassembled using a spring compressor to access the mount bearing — this is a job for a shop unless you have spring compressor experience ($300-$500 labor for both sides). Most shops recommend replacing the struts at the same time if they have over 80,000 miles, since the labor overlaps. A complete strut assembly with pre-assembled mount and spring ($200-$350 per side) eliminates the need for a spring compressor and simplifies the repair. A wheel alignment ($100-$150) is required after strut work.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- TipBuy complete strut assemblies (Monroe Quick-Strut or KYB Strut-Plus) with the mount, bearing, and spring pre-assembled. They bolt right in without a spring compressor and cost only slightly more than mount-only replacement. Much safer for DIY.
- UpgradePerformance monotube shocks/struts for sport-tuned suspension (Bilstein B8 Sport Shocks/Struts)
- UpgradeStrut mount and bearing for noise-free strut operation (Moog Strut Mount Assembly)