I have a really nice Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited 2015 Mechanical report says it’s in great shape but the battery might be a concern

The mechanic mentioned that the car has been well cared for and he would buy it but would only do so if he had the cash for a potential battery replacement. The total cost I’m looking at is 17k out the door which includes gap insurance for $1100, documents for $899, and around $1000 in taxes. I will be financing $14k after a $3k down payment, and I have a warranty for some parts including the battery, valve, and engine for a certain mileage (I’m going to the dealer now to get that info as I just fixed the car).

This would be my first car and I really like the Avalon because of its good reputation for reliability and comfort. Being a taller guy, it feels good to drive since most cars are too cramped for me.

Can anyone share their thoughts? Thanks a bunch.

People drive older Priuses all the time so you probably shouldn’t worry too much about the Avalon. That’s just how hybrids work

Magdalina said:
People drive older Priuses all the time so you probably shouldn’t worry too much about the Avalon. That’s just how hybrids work

When you say that’s how hybrids work, can you explain what you mean?

@Zia
Eventually the battery will need to be replaced. You will notice signs of battery failure over time but with its age you should have plenty of life left. It’s worth driving for now

The Avalon is by far the smoothest car I’ve ever driven

Kemper said:
The Avalon is by far the smoothest car I’ve ever driven

Seriously! It really gives that luxury feel. Everyone who rides in it talks about how nice it is and how quiet it drives. I guess I’m sticking to luxury sedans from now on.

@TomHarris
Until you add a Borla exhaust hoping it wouldn’t sound loud at normal speeds but it does

Almost grabbed one myself. Loved the car but the battery worries me so I went with a 2017 RAV4 LE instead

Kemper said:
Almost grabbed one myself. Loved the car but the battery worries me so I went with a 2017 RAV4 LE instead

That’s too bad…

Kemper said:
Almost grabbed one myself. Loved the car but the battery worries me so I went with a 2017 RAV4 LE instead

RAV4s are really nice too

I paid $6k for a battery replacement on my 2014 Avalon XLE Hybrid

Zayn said:
I paid $6k for a battery replacement on my 2014 Avalon XLE Hybrid

Wow, is that what you just spent?

Zayn said:
I paid $6k for a battery replacement on my 2014 Avalon XLE Hybrid

Was that because it failed or to prevent it from failing?

Clovis said:

Zayn said:
I paid $6k for a battery replacement on my 2014 Avalon XLE Hybrid

Was that because it failed or to prevent it from failing?

I received a warning notification :police_car_light:.

Zayn said:
I paid $6k for a battery replacement on my 2014 Avalon XLE Hybrid

I assume the $6k was for an OEM battery installed by the dealer in the US? Just so you know, battery replacement isn’t super hard and doesn’t have to be done at a dealership. An OEM battery is great but honestly not necessary in my view.

@Smart
Yes, I got it done at a dealership in the US. Next time I might look for a non-dealer option. I paid extra to go to a dealer I trust that is close to me. Thanks for the advice.

You didn’t mention the mileage on your Avalon. 17k seems high for a car that’s 10 years old. Plus, financing that age usually comes with high interest. If you really need gap insurance then you may be overpaying. But since you’re financing through the dealership, they might require you to buy it. Just be cautious, as you already seem to be starting off with negatives on the deal. Maybe think about going for a gas-only Avalon.

@Maverick
It’s at 104k miles and I’ve done service every 5k at Toyota

I have a 2014 Avalon with 310,000 miles and the original battery.

Clovis said:
I have a 2014 Avalon with 310,000 miles and the original battery.

Hybrid