Found a 2005 Avalon with 160k miles for $4500 from a private party. Car fax shows recently replaced all brakes and rotors. Clean title. No timing belt or water pump changed as per the owner.
Is it a good buy? Or too many miles for the price?
Doesn’t have a timing belt. I just got a 2008 touring for $2300. I chose the 2008 due to the changeover to a 6-speed transmission. Many reviews say it was a worthwhile upgrade. $4500 isn’t bad; it’s a NICE vehicle.
Check for front timing cover leaks and steering rack leaks.
@Clove
Got it. Thank you! Sweet purchase, how many miles were on yours?
Abi said:
@Clove
Got it. Thank you! Sweet purchase, how many miles were on yours?
There she is this is her
Abi said:
@Clove
Got it. Thank you! Sweet purchase, how many miles were on yours?
144k miles. I had to replace the front bumper and passenger fender. I did a full tune-up and replaced the leaking radiator. Put about $1200 into it and now it’s running like a dream.
I don’t think this generation of Avalon has timing belts. I have a 2009 and I have a timing chain, so no replacements are necessary. I have roughly 161k on it right now and it drives much better than my 2016 Chrysler 200… Those V6 engines are bulletproof as long as they are maintained well.
@Dallas
Understood. Haha that’s great! By the way, how many miles do these usually last?
Abi said:
@Dallas
Understood. Haha that’s great! By the way, how many miles do these usually last?
Easily 300k with basic maintenance. I’m expecting mine to go at least 400k, maybe even up to 600k with some replacement of engine parts. So far in 16 years, I only had to replace both front CV axles and brake pads and rotors, alternator, battery, and other wearable items that break over time, but still have the original struts. Thinking of buying another one as a backup in case my wife’s truck breaks down in the next 10 years.
How true! I would never buy one from a young guy. I would be worried he tried some sort of modifications and destroyed the V6 reliability.
My 2020 has 123k. You’ll be just fine.
2004 was the last year for the timing belt. You will likely still have to change the water pump at some point, but the chain lasts longer than a belt.
Without seeing the condition, it’s hard to tell if it’s a good buy. If all maintenance was done according to the schedule and it was treated well, then it could be a great vehicle.
You don’t find much in good running and driving condition for $4500 these days. If it is in good shape, then it is probably a good buy. If it is clapped out, then no.
@Patton
True.
I’d say the price is good, especially if it’s in good condition inside and out. Maybe try for $4k out the door but you should be good.
Dallas said:
I’d say the price is good, especially if it’s in good condition inside and out. Maybe try for $4k out the door but you should be good.
Sure. Very helpful. Thanks.
Solid price if well maintained. I paid almost $10k for my 2005 back in 2020 but it had 21k miles.
Magdalina said:
Solid price if well maintained. I paid almost $10k for my 2005 back in 2020 but it had 21k miles.
Such low miles? Great catch!
Here’s a good vid on what to look for. I think the six-speed in the later years has better reliability. https://youtu.be/GWBYfj3ewiI?feature=shared
If it’s the 3.5 V6, they’re chain-driven with oil pressure guides. If it’s had regular oil changes/maintenance then it’s a solid buy. It may need motor mounts and suspension components. The steering rack may be leaking, but PS fluid is cheaper than the rack itself.
Bought my wife an 06 XLS, had a minor fender bender, bought it with 96k. I’ve replaced the suspension all the way around, new tires, ALL mounts (make sure the front mount has the vacuum lines intact and connected; it mitigates a lot of the engine rock), and the steering rack. Plan to ride it to 300k before needing anything else major (currently has 115k).
@Owen
Long way to go! I am looking to buy one too and drive it to the ground.
Been through 6 Avalons. The current 2 I have one had 308k miles, and the other at 198k. Both are bulletproof.