2021 Toyota Avalon recalls and problems
The 2021 Toyota Avalon has 2 safety recalls and 21 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Toyota dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2021 Toyota Avalon vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2021 Toyota Avalon recalls
Recall 23V-865: Air Bags
Problem: 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.
Fix: 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.
Recall 20V-734: Air Bags, Steering
Problem: 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.
Fix: 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.
2021 Toyota Avalon problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Air Bags | 12 | |
| Engine | 4 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 3 | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 3 | |
| Service Brakes | 2 | |
| Back Over Prevention | 1 | |
| Electrical System | 1 | |
| Tires | 1 | |
| Power Train | 1 | |
| Seat Belts | 1 |
Most reported parts
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control — 2
- Back Over Prevention › Rearview System Braking — 1
- Electrical System › Instrument Cluster/Panel — 1
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 1
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency Braking — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 2,500 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2021 Toyota Avalon complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Toyota Avalon years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2021 Toyota Avalon have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2021 Toyota Avalon: 23V-865 (air bags), 20V-734 (air bags, steering). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2021 Toyota Avalon?
Owners report air bags problems most often (12 reports), followed by engine (4). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 2,500 miles.
Are Toyota recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Toyota dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.