Dan, you probably want to investigate our Prices Paid & Buying Experience discussion for the Avalon. That's a great resource for you. Keep us posted on how it goes!
I appreciate your kind remarks but in truth, there are many wise contributors to this Avalon forum who deserve recognition (and some, are by far my elders ). I know that I am learning a lot from the collective wisdom and insights that are shared here daily and from imaginative questions that stimulate further analysis and thinking. And, I should also thank pat(HOST) for having occasionally pulled in a timely way some stray message that I may have posted, which has also helped preserve my good repute!
Now, I’m disappointed that Toyota has not yet eliminated exhaust pipe asymmetries after 6 months in production, with 10x more cars built since mine was, and given our early complaints that should have reached the Kentucky QC people 3 months ago.
On your issue with the distorting rear window glass, I would let only Toyota replace it, so that they use original parts and remain solely responsible. But right now it seems as if this distortion could be endemic with the current window glass and if so, a replacement window could have distortion, too. So you may want to wait a few more months to see if/when Toyota fixes the glass distortion problem, which is probably more difficult to fix than crooked welding in exhaust pipe assemblies.
Anyway, on a more positive note: this mod you are working on to bypass the override window switch so the driver can still operate all of the windows with the switch pushed in -- say, there may be a market for this! You’ll soon find out that teens remain just as competitive for control of their windows, as when they were 4 years old
You are absolutely right, of course, I should have included “having $25,000 to spare” as another good reason for buying a new Avalon now rather than wait. Or better yet, let’s make that “having $25,000 to spare and a supportive wife”! Your decision-making process sounds perfectly logical and reasonable, given circumstances.
How about this: you are both right. The up/down and forward/back seat motions are separately controllable, as haggis says. But, at the extremes of horizontal travel, the up/down motions are not really vertical; they are diagonal, for some reason, so there is also forward motion when moving the seat up, which is what dconnor noticed. I think that this is also visible in the animations in the www.mynewavalon.com tutorial.
Well I just received my "Assembly Inspection Safety Recall Notice" today. Toyota did not refer to it as a TSB. I wonder why the change? Hope you're still out there Mac.
Even though my next door neighbor who is the sales manager at the Toyota dealership where I bought mine sold me a car for $300 over the invoice and no dealer fees, I still don't trust them in taking a good care of the car that is so new. I know that his mechanics do not get sufficient training in advance before the new model is launched. And if they start messing with the windshield, that's a big one; what if they don't install a water seal properly? Living with a distorted image seams much easier at that point, than having water in my trunk. I will let them practice first with a wind noise in the rear doors and see what happens with that.
I use to owe a 98 Lexus GS300 and I had very similar transmission problem that went away after the Lexus dealer had implemented some software and hardware upgrades. I also had a wind noise but that was never fixed after numerous attempts. So I learned to live with it. That was also first year of their production.
I think that I am going to wait for most of these pending issues for another six months or so and we'll see. I will keep a close eye on yours and the "wisdom of the masses" in this forum.
P.S. The seat belt chime is another one that's got to go. I can't stand the darn thing.
Toyota uses the term TSB in relation to internal documents relating to service on vehicles - hence the term Technical Service Bulletin. However, when sending out notices of such to owners, they use different terms. No particular reason that I know of other than to make it clearer to those who are not as familiar with the technical terms that those using the forums here are.
Kinzua Congratulations on your LTD. Can I ask, how much off of MSRP can one expect to negotiate? Dan
$2800. However, you should visit the Forum dedicated to pricing( Avalon Prices Paid) where you can get a better idea of what others are paying nationwide.
I've looked pretty far and wide for aftermarket products for my Limited and have found at each inquiry that no one is producing any aftermarket items for the Avalons.
I guess they think we're all 60 something and won't want to customize our look. It kills me; the Chrysler 300 has grilles and all sorts of customizations. Same for the Acura, Infiniti, Nissan.... :mad: really makes me steam.
I have 2 questions about the "Trip Information" display with the DVD Navigation system.
1) My understanding of the Owners Manual description of the operation of the "Average Speed" and "Distance" displays is that they are reset using the "Enter" Button (Pg 114 of the Nav OM). The way mine actually works is that they reset everytime the engine is shut off. The Avalon expert at my dealership has no explanation for this but said he would check with technical support. Anyone experience anything different than what I just said?
2) Again having to do with the "Trip Information" screen. Pg 113 of the Nav Owner's Manual says that "the instantaneous fuel consumption is calculated and displayed based on distance and fuel consumption for 1 second with the engine running".It goes on to indicate that this may not be an accurate figure when the vehicle is stopped or going down hill which would indicate to me that the display is really intended to be instantaneous and not average. The very next section (Pg114 "After Refueling") talks about Average Fuel Consumption and the fact that "every time you refuel the vehicle, the calculation is reset". So, my question is: does anyone have a consumption display that is based on instantaneous fuel consumption? And, if so do you also get an average fuel consumption reading?
I do not have the nav in my Limited. I think of the mpg indicated as some of both, instantaneous as well as mpg since fill up. It does reset at each fill up. However, it doesn't reset after each engine shut down. I think you may notice that shortly after fill up, the indication has a tendency to change more rapidly than as the tank nears empty. That to me is because the change of the instant mpg has more effect when having only driven a few miles, where as a change in instant mpg after 250-300 miles doesn't have the same effect. I think of it in simply terms (the only way I can understand things). Two peanuts out of 6 peanuts is a large percentage. Two peanuts out of 600 is relatively minor. So, if you lay rubber just after fill up. the mpg may go to 10mpg. Then travel the highway and it may well go up rapidly to 25-28 mpg. After 250 miles you lay rubber and the 25-28 may drop to only 24.8 or 28.8 and then slowly come back up. Don't know if this helps or not. I tried!!! .
Funny, I think I can operate a power seat without instructions. Try powering your seat back, and then try to raise the seat without it rising diagonally forward. It can't be done. You can go back and forth, but you can not raise the seat independent of any forward motion. I have long legs for my height (6' 3"), especially my thigh, so that forward motion makes the distance from the seat back to the dash and emergency brake pedal too restrictive so that I cannot get a comfortable position. I really hate it too, because I would like to get the Avalon limited, but if you can't get a comfortable seating position, you are defeated at square one.
Like I said before, I agree with you. When the seat is all the way back it cannot be raised without also moving a bit forward. Even though at intermediate front-back positions, the height can be independently controlled -- weird.
Have you thought of placing spacers under the seat tracks to raise it to a correct height for you? I haven't checked, but it might be possible to do this and still cover a reasonable range of seat positions for other drivers.
I think that many Avalon buyers appreciate the extraordinary gas mileage (given the car size and power), not "instead of", but in addition to the other fine features of the car. This technological feat has been highlighted by many a reviewer recently, and it certainly was one of the factors I considered when I decided to buy mine, last February.
"Another mod I am working on is bypassing the override window switch so the driver can still operate all of the windows when the switch is pushed in like it is, for example, in the BMW vehicles. I find that rather annoying since my 4 year old keeps playing a "waiting game" for his turn to exercise his window up and down. After all, I think the whole purpose of this switch was to keep driver in control of all windows and to disable the passengers from messing with it."
Conelecon, I'd really like to hear if you come up with a fix to this issue. I totally agree, the driver should be able to control all windows all the time. My old Fords and Mercury's were able to do this.
I am 62 years young, 5'10", 190 lbs. I took delivery of my Blizzard Pearl Limited early April, 2005. Once home in our garage I adjusted the drivers seat, steering wheel and both outside mirrors. Locked everything into memory and with over 3000 miles on the car, have not found it necessary to make any adjustments.
This Avalon is one fine complete vehicle. Whatever minor issues I've encountered, in no way has dampened my satisfacation with its over all performance.
I think the exterior design is eloquent, and while some claim the back seat looks dull and like a bench, my 6' golf buddies would tell you different. I have no problems with the front seats as to comfort. And, the dash looks clear and finished thanks to the attractive silver toned doors that hide all those controls.
My last three vehicles were Buick Park Avenues, and this Avalon has raised the bar on my expect ions of how a quality car should preform.
"Thanks to all the information here, I've decided a few days ago to place my order on an Avalon Limited (with NV, CL, VD) with blue mirage metallic exterior and ivory interior. The est. delivery is mid August. Can't wait. "
Execellent choice! I've had this exact same car since 02/10 and am totally in love with it.
I do not have the nav in my Limited. I think of the mpg indicated as some of both, instantaneous as well as mpg since fill up. It does reset at each fill up. However, it doesn't reset after each engine shut down. I think you may notice that shortly after fill up, the indication has a tendency to change more rapidly than as the tank nears empty. That to me is because the change of the instant mpg has more effect when having only driven a few miles, where as a change in instant mpg after 250-300 miles doesn't have the same effect. I think of it in simply terms (the only way I can understand things). Two peanuts out of 6 peanuts is a large percentage. Two peanuts out of 600 is relatively minor. So, if you lay rubber just after fill up. the mpg may go to 10mpg. Then travel the highway and it may well go up rapidly to 25-28 mpg. After 250 miles you lay rubber and the 25-28 may drop to only 24.8 or 28.8 and then slowly come back up. Don't know if this helps or not. I tried!!! .
johndir, sounds like your consumption display operates the same as mine, i.e. displayes average Miles gper gallon.
Next question, Does your average SPEED and distance reset when you shut off the engine?
My Limited windshield wipers make a whining noise when they operate. It's not very loud but just loud enough to be annoying when I'm out for a drive. Anyone else notice this.
Also from my experience here in the rainy Northwest, the timing adjustments for the automatic wipers doesn't do anything as far as I can tell. No matter which setting I use it's all the same. Has anyone else noticed this. It's certainly not like the manual timing adjustments I had on my 01 Avalon. No matter which setting I use with the Automatic wipers it operates the same.
My Limited windshield wipers make a whining noise when they operate. It's not very loud but just loud enough to be annoying when I'm out for a drive. Anyone else notice this.
Also from my experience here in the rainy Northwest, the timing adjustments for the automatic wipers doesn't do anything as far as I can tell. No matter which setting I use it's all the same. Has anyone else noticed this. It's certainly not like the manual timing adjustments I had on my 01 Avalon. No matter which setting I use with the Automatic wipers it operates the same.
Doug My wipers do a great job from a slight drizzle to a driving rain. I haven't even tried to change the adjustment. It is set to the mid point.
The last time I had a seat belt chime which went off every time I had to remove my belt I ended up ripping out the seat and cutting the wires. I really am beginning to dislike driving my Avalon! Is this a Toyota thing or is it just the Avalon?
It is something that you're going to have to get used to going forward as, at least from what I've heard, it is something that the gov. has required manufacturers to do. They're phasing it in with most manufacturers, but with this being a redesign, they must have inplemented it now.
You will love it. Imagine not needing to take your gloves off to fish for keys or a remote for entry or for starting. I find I now brake when starting my old Avy.
Someone rushing to get inside the car in a heavy rainstorm won't need to fish out the keys from his pocket. And a parent carrying a youngster won't need to put the toddler down in a parking lot to dig around at the bottom of a purse or in a pocket for the keys so the adult and child can get inside the car.
My wife abolutely loves it. I am just curious if I can trust a valet with the technology. :confuse:
I've tried several arrangements and the following works best for me: I've installed the radar dector upside down using visor bracked in the middle of the drivers side sun visor. The bracket easily comes loose from the detector so I added a nylon strap pulled tight to hold dectector in the bracket. I attached the straight power cord (not coiled cord) to detector power input jack and routed wire from input jack to the sun visor hook then to the back over the rear view mirror (right side) then down to the left side of the center console. I then attached/routed the wire to left side of center console using five of the provided adhesive backed retainer clips spaced about 6" apart. The wire runs along the left side of the center console back into the rear console box 12V power outlet. Hope this helps..
FYI: I bought my Pearl Ltd Feb 23 and just/finally received by mail the Avalon interactive CD-ROM disc (~ 4 mo's late). Disc came from Toyota in Torrance CA...
My remote starting is not working on our Ltd. We are following the CD tutorial which says to push the lock button (hard) twice within two seconds, release lock button, then push lock button once and hold for three seconds. We get the beeps but nothing beyond that. Any ideas out there before I call the dealer? Thanks in advance for your great input..
I may consider buying an Avalon in about a year. Just curious--what is the minimum distance you can set the auto-cruise control device. Can it be set for say 60 feet if traveling at 40mph? If you have to set it too far, I would think other cars will move in front of you causing you to to have to go farther and farther behind.
Another question: those of you who have this auto-cruise control: do you find it useful or is it too much of a gimmick and more trouble than it's worth?
I may consider buying an Avalon in about a year. Just curious--what is the minimum distance you can set the auto-cruise control device. Can it be set for say 60 feet if traveling at 40mph? If you have to set it too far, I would think other cars will move in front of you causing you to to have to go farther and farther behind.
Another question: those of you who have this auto-cruise control: do you find it useful or is it too much of a gimmick and more trouble than it's worth?
easyrider300m, I have the Laser cruise control and love it. The distance is adjustable but I have never tried setting it to the minimum. My gues is that around 60 feet would be achievable. The thing I really like about it is that it prevents me from climbing up the back of a slow mover in front of me as I tend to do with conventional cruise control. One other thing, you can disable laser cruise and revert to normal cruise if the traffic pattern demands. Good luck,
The last time I had a seat belt chime which went off every time I had to remove my belt I ended up ripping out the seat and cutting the wires. I really am beginning to dislike driving my Avalon! Is this a Toyota thing or is it just the Avalon?
gschltz3, It's a safety thing. If you ever saw the video "Room to Live" put out by the Pennsylvania State Police you would understand the importance of wearing a seatbellt. Anyway, enjoy your Avalon.
I agree...but I was caught in a heavy rainstorm and the only problem is the system has to recognize your Smart Key first...so I did have to stand in the rain for a couple of seconds before I was able to open the door..
My remote starting is not working on our Ltd. We are following the CD tutorial which says to push the lock button (hard) twice within two seconds, release lock button, then push lock button once and hold for three seconds.
I have found on my XLS that the easiest way to use the remote start is to press the lock button quickly three times in a row and on the third press don't release the button...just hold it down. In a few seconds (I guess three based on the what the manual says) your lights will flash and the vehicle will start. You don't have to hold the button until the vehicle actually starts...you can release it once you see the lights flash. It took a little bit to get used to this but after a few times I was able to get it every time. I hope this helps.
I had this problem. Now I quickly press the lock button three times, and then hold the lock button on the fourth attemp. The lights will quickly flash and then pause. Then the lights will flash again will still holding the button. The engine should start in about 2-3 seconds. Hope this helps.
How do you guys find out about the progress of your new car order? I asked the dealer, and the sales told me that he'll only know when the car is scheduled to arrive at the dealer. Nothing more.
Once an order has gone into the system with Toyota, there are no updates to get until the next allocation. Allocations typically run 2x per month. Once in the beginning, somewhere around the 1st and once in the middle somewhere around the 15th. Until the next allocation, your dealer won't know if the preference/order was accepted. At that time, they can update you as to if your vehicle was put into their inventory for production as well as the estimated time of production. As the production date nears, they get updates for actual production dates and ETA's for when the vehicle will be shipped.
Thanks, Ken. I was getting a little anxious because the dealer hasn't charged the $1,000 deposit on my credit card, and I haven't heard anything from them either. I'll wait a couple weeks and see if there is any update.
I have a 95 Camry XLE, very nice, but old, and I have the wants, was going to get a used 03 or 04 Avalon, that is until I saw the new 2005. I must have the limited, b/c I want the cooled seats. The MSRP is Arkansas and Memphis, TN is arround $38,000, and I am having an impossible time finding anyone to come off that price.. I am also having a hard time finding the cars period, and dealers are using that as an excuss NOT to reduce the MSRP price. Much luck with you guys? What about he cooled seats- are they working for you guys? Feel nice? Cool good? What transmission problems? I have not read those? I am also scared that these were built too fast- and that they have been so re designed, I have been warned many many timers about that...new design kinks, etc. I am just afraid to take the near $40,ooo leap... we are very frugal. and cheap...what about the telescopic steering wheel, do you all like that? also, is the silver , chrome like on the inside holding up good, scratch easity. etc? What about all of those little push button release levers, like on the console, they seem cheap to me, and easily broken, any problems with you? I have always had Toyota's and driven them 100+ miles, and zero problems, I am just so worried about this much $$.. Tell me more about the transmission... Thanks for ANY advice and hints on MSRP, etc..
"I found an advertisment that showed license plate covers w/faceplates. The company name is WeatherTech. Try website www.mats.com.
NWBLIZZARD
Make sure your state allows covers. MN does not allow anything on the plate - including snow. My wife and I have both been stopped for lite smoke covers. It's assinine. You try to improve the appearance of your property and they fine you or tax you, yet the scum balls continue to do drugs etc. pretty much with impunity, and as I was getting told about the illegality of covers, a Harley roars by with straight pipes and didn't get a glance.
What about he cooled seats- are they working for you guys? Feel nice? Cool good?
Yes. I like the cooled seats, my wife doesn't. I think they give just the right amount of cooled air around my rear (adjustable). Can always turn it off.
What transmission problems? I have not read those?
Much discussion in this forum about hesitation with transmission shifting, especially at very low speeds, say below 15 mph. I have never had any problem, love the responsive engine and 5-speed tranny. When rounding slow speed corners, this car always seems to be in the right gear for immediate acceleration. My 2000 Avalon, with 4-speed, always waited to downshift after turning slow corner.
This is not to say there is no problem. I do believe those who are complaining about hesitation. See what you think with a test drive.
what about the telescopic steering wheel, do you all like that?
My wife & I both set telescoping wheel to most forward position and leave it there. So, that feature does nothing for us.
also, is the silver , chrome like on the inside holding up good, scratch easity. etc? What about all of those little push button release levers, like on the console, they seem cheap to me, and easily broken, any problems with you?
Only time will tell. I think the dash looks very elegant and sleek, but, if the buttons or doors fail, it could be a pain. The biggest irritation is the navigation system disclaimer screen that always comes up, and you have to open the lower NAV control door to get rid of the obnoxious message.
I am also having a hard time finding the cars period, and dealers are using that as an excuss NOT to reduce the MSRP price. Much luck with you guys?
As for the price, I paid about halfway between invoice and MSRP, or about $2300 below MSRP. Some others have done better, many have paid near full MSRP. I would suggest you work hard at checking dealers farther from you, and just be patient. Eventually the supply will catch up with demand, and you can get better deal. I would never pay full MSRP, but that's always a personal decision.
Based on long experience with Toyotas, I would expect this car to have excellent reliability. It is a lot of money, but the car is so well equipped that it's a real bargain even at $35k plus. I now have a 2000 and 2005 Avalon - the 2000 is still in great shape.
It may be that you are trying to start the car from too far away. I had a remote starter put on my wife's Highlander and it works great. The factory remote on my 2005 Avalon will not work beyond 50-70 ft or so. It's a poor design by Toyota and the dealer has yet to get me the info needed to unhook the factory unit so I can add an aftermarket unit that has the range I need to start the car in the parking lot like the Viper unit will do. Besides, the unit shuts the car off when you press the unlock button to enter the car. Another "user unfriendly" feature. I recommend you see your dealer service department to see why your unit doesn't work...and hope you get better satisfaction than I have gotten. Otherwise I love the car, it's so unlike Toyota to offer such a poorly performing remote unit on such a fine vehicle.
Has anyone received their steering recall letter yet? I called Toyota and they say my car is on the list. Called the dealer and he says wait until I get the letter from Toyota.
Comments
i would love to know if theres any aftermarket illuminated door sills for the 4 door of the 05 avalon like the lexus rx and others ?
can sombody tell me where ?
thanks
I appreciate your kind remarks but in truth, there are many wise contributors to this Avalon forum who deserve recognition (and some, are by far my elders
Now, I’m disappointed that Toyota has not yet eliminated exhaust pipe asymmetries after 6 months in production, with 10x more cars built since mine was, and given our early complaints that should have reached the Kentucky QC people 3 months ago.
On your issue with the distorting rear window glass, I would let only Toyota replace it, so that they use original parts and remain solely responsible. But right now it seems as if this distortion could be endemic with the current window glass and if so, a replacement window could have distortion, too. So you may want to wait a few more months to see if/when Toyota fixes the glass distortion problem, which is probably more difficult to fix than crooked welding in exhaust pipe assemblies.
Anyway, on a more positive note: this mod you are working on to bypass the override window switch so the driver can still operate all of the windows with the switch pushed in -- say, there may be a market for this! You’ll soon find out that teens remain just as competitive for control of their windows, as when they were 4 years old
Best wishes,
havalongavalon
You are absolutely right, of course, I should have included “having $25,000 to spare” as another good reason for buying a new Avalon now rather than wait. Or better yet, let’s make that “having $25,000 to spare and a supportive wife”! Your decision-making process sounds perfectly logical and reasonable, given circumstances.
Glad that you are enjoying your 2005!
havalongavalon
How about this: you are both right. The up/down and forward/back seat motions are separately controllable, as haggis says. But, at the extremes of horizontal travel, the up/down motions are not really vertical; they are diagonal, for some reason, so there is also forward motion when moving the seat up, which is what dconnor noticed. I think that this is also visible in the animations in the www.mynewavalon.com tutorial.
havalongavalon
In general, I do not trust car dealers.
Even though my next door neighbor who is the sales manager at the Toyota dealership where I bought mine sold me a car for $300 over the invoice and no dealer fees, I still don't trust them in taking a good care of the car that is so new. I know that his mechanics do not get sufficient training in advance before the new model is launched. And if they start messing with the windshield, that's a big one; what if they don't install a water seal properly? Living with a distorted image seams much easier at that point, than having water in my trunk. I will let them practice first with a wind noise in the rear doors and see what happens with that.
I use to owe a 98 Lexus GS300 and I had very similar transmission problem that went away after the Lexus dealer had implemented some software and hardware upgrades. I also had a wind noise but that was never fixed after numerous attempts. So I learned to live with it. That was also first year of their production.
I think that I am going to wait for most of these pending issues for another six months or so and we'll see. I will keep a close eye on yours and the "wisdom of the masses" in this forum.
P.S. The seat belt chime is another one that's got to go. I can't stand the darn thing.
Ken
Congratulations on your LTD.
Can I ask, how much off of MSRP can one expect to negotiate?
Dan
$2800. However, you should visit the Forum dedicated to pricing( Avalon Prices Paid) where you can get a better idea of what others are paying nationwide.
I guess they think we're all 60 something and won't want to customize our look. It kills me; the Chrysler 300 has grilles and all sorts of customizations. Same for the Acura, Infiniti, Nissan.... :mad: really makes me steam.
1) My understanding of the Owners Manual description of the operation of the "Average Speed" and "Distance" displays is that they are reset using the "Enter" Button (Pg 114 of the Nav OM). The way mine actually works is that they reset everytime the engine is shut off. The Avalon expert at my dealership has no explanation for this but said he would check with technical support. Anyone experience anything different than what I just said?
2) Again having to do with the "Trip Information" screen. Pg 113 of the Nav Owner's Manual says that "the instantaneous fuel consumption is calculated and displayed based on distance and fuel consumption for 1 second with the engine running".It goes on to indicate that this may not be an accurate figure when the vehicle is stopped or going down hill which would indicate to me that the display is really intended to be instantaneous and not average. The very next section (Pg114 "After Refueling") talks about Average Fuel Consumption and the fact that "every time you refuel the vehicle, the calculation is reset". So, my question is: does anyone have a consumption display that is based on instantaneous fuel consumption? And, if so do you also get an average fuel consumption reading?
hope they reconsder doing some aftermarket stuff for the new avalon since it looks much better than the prev ones .
I think you may notice that shortly after fill up, the indication has a tendency to change more rapidly than as the tank nears empty. That to me is because the change of the instant mpg has more effect when having only driven a few miles, where as a change in instant mpg after 250-300 miles doesn't have the same effect. I think of it in simply terms (the only way I can understand things). Two peanuts out of 6 peanuts is a large percentage. Two peanuts out of 600 is relatively minor.
So, if you lay rubber just after fill up. the mpg may go to 10mpg. Then travel the highway and it may well go up rapidly to 25-28 mpg. After 250 miles you lay rubber and the 25-28 may drop to only 24.8 or 28.8 and then slowly come back up.
Don't know if this helps or not.
I tried!!!
Like I said before, I agree with you. When the seat is all the way back it cannot be raised without also moving a bit forward. Even though at intermediate front-back positions, the height can be independently controlled -- weird.
Have you thought of placing spacers under the seat tracks to raise it to a correct height for you? I haven't checked, but it might be possible to do this and still cover a reasonable range of seat positions for other drivers.
havalongavalon
I think that many Avalon buyers appreciate the extraordinary gas mileage (given the car size and power), not "instead of", but in addition to the other fine features of the car. This technological feat has been highlighted by many a reviewer recently, and it certainly was one of the factors I considered when I decided to buy mine, last February.
havalongavalon"
Here Here, what Havalongavalon says!
Conelecon, I'd really like to hear if you come up with a fix to this issue. I totally agree, the driver should be able to control all windows all the time. My old Fords and Mercury's were able to do this.
MikeS.
This Avalon is one fine complete vehicle. Whatever minor issues I've encountered, in no way has dampened my satisfacation with its over all performance.
I think the exterior design is eloquent, and while some claim the back seat looks dull and like a bench, my 6' golf buddies would tell you different. I have no problems with the front seats as to comfort. And, the dash looks clear and finished thanks to the attractive silver toned doors that hide all those controls.
My last three vehicles were Buick Park Avenues, and this Avalon has raised the bar on my expect ions of how a quality car should preform.
Execellent choice! I've had this exact same car since 02/10 and am totally in love with it.
MikeS.
I think you may notice that shortly after fill up, the indication has a tendency to change more rapidly than as the tank nears empty. That to me is because the change of the instant mpg has more effect when having only driven a few miles, where as a change in instant mpg after 250-300 miles doesn't have the same effect. I think of it in simply terms (the only way I can understand things). Two peanuts out of 6 peanuts is a large percentage. Two peanuts out of 600 is relatively minor.
So, if you lay rubber just after fill up. the mpg may go to 10mpg. Then travel the highway and it may well go up rapidly to 25-28 mpg. After 250 miles you lay rubber and the 25-28 may drop to only 24.8 or 28.8 and then slowly come back up.
Don't know if this helps or not.
I tried!!! .
johndir,
sounds like your consumption display operates the same as mine, i.e. displayes average Miles gper gallon.
Next question, Does your average SPEED and distance reset when you shut off the engine?
Also from my experience here in the rainy Northwest, the timing adjustments for the automatic wipers doesn't do anything as far as I can tell. No matter which setting I use it's all the same. Has anyone else noticed this. It's certainly not like the manual timing adjustments I had on my 01 Avalon. No matter which setting I use with the Automatic wipers it operates the same.
Doug
Also from my experience here in the rainy Northwest, the timing adjustments for the automatic wipers doesn't do anything as far as I can tell. No matter which setting I use it's all the same. Has anyone else noticed this. It's certainly not like the manual timing adjustments I had on my 01 Avalon. No matter which setting I use with the Automatic wipers it operates the same.
Doug
My wipers do a great job from a slight drizzle to a driving rain. I haven't even tried to change the adjustment. It is set to the mid point.
You could just use the seat belt, btw.
Someone rushing to get inside the car in a heavy rainstorm won't need to fish out the keys from his pocket. And a parent carrying a youngster won't need to put the toddler down in a parking lot to dig around at the bottom of a purse or in a pocket for the keys so the adult and child can get inside the car.
My wife abolutely loves it. I am just curious if I can trust a valet with the technology. :confuse:
I've installed the radar dector upside down using visor bracked in the middle of the drivers side sun visor. The bracket easily comes loose from the detector so I added a nylon strap pulled tight to hold dectector in the bracket. I attached the straight power cord (not coiled cord) to detector power input jack and routed wire from input jack to the sun visor hook then to the back over the rear view mirror (right side) then down to the left side of the center console. I then attached/routed the wire to left side of center console using five of the provided adhesive backed retainer clips spaced about 6" apart. The wire runs along the left side of the center console back into the rear console box 12V power outlet. Hope this helps..
NWBLIZZARD
NWBLIZZARD
NWBLIZZARD
Another question: those of you who have this auto-cruise control: do you find it useful or is it too much of a gimmick and more trouble than it's worth?
Another question: those of you who have this auto-cruise control: do you find it useful or is it too much of a gimmick and more trouble than it's worth?
easyrider300m,
I have the Laser cruise control and love it. The distance is adjustable but I have never tried setting it to the minimum. My gues is that around 60 feet would be achievable. The thing I really like about it is that it prevents me from climbing up the back of a slow mover in front of me as I tend to do with conventional cruise control. One other thing, you can disable laser cruise and revert to normal cruise if the traffic pattern demands.
Good luck,
gschltz3,
It's a safety thing. If you ever saw the video "Room to Live" put out by the Pennsylvania State Police you would understand the importance of wearing a seatbellt.
Anyway, enjoy your Avalon.
I have found on my XLS that the easiest way to use the remote start is to press the lock button quickly three times in a row and on the third press don't release the button...just hold it down. In a few seconds (I guess three based on the what the manual says) your lights will flash and the vehicle will start. You don't have to hold the button until the vehicle actually starts...you can release it once you see the lights flash. It took a little bit to get used to this but after a few times I was able to get it every time. I hope this helps.
Hope this helps.
Ken
NWBLIZZARD
NWBLIZZARD
NWBLIZZARD
Make sure your state allows covers. MN does not allow anything on the plate - including snow. My wife and I have both been stopped for lite smoke covers. It's assinine. You try to improve the appearance of your property and they fine you or tax you, yet the scum balls continue to do drugs etc. pretty much with impunity, and as I was getting told about the illegality of covers, a Harley roars by with straight pipes and didn't get a glance.
Yes. I like the cooled seats, my wife doesn't. I think they give just the right amount of cooled air around my rear (adjustable). Can always turn it off.
What transmission problems? I have not read those?
Much discussion in this forum about hesitation with transmission shifting, especially at very low speeds, say below 15 mph. I have never had any problem, love the responsive engine and 5-speed tranny. When rounding slow speed corners, this car always seems to be in the right gear for immediate acceleration. My 2000 Avalon, with 4-speed, always waited to downshift after turning slow corner.
This is not to say there is no problem. I do believe those who are complaining about hesitation. See what you think with a test drive.
what about the telescopic steering wheel, do you all like that?
My wife & I both set telescoping wheel to most forward position and leave it there. So, that feature does nothing for us.
also, is the silver , chrome like on the inside holding up good, scratch easity. etc? What about all of those little push button release levers, like on the console, they seem cheap to me, and easily broken, any problems with you?
Only time will tell. I think the dash looks very elegant and sleek, but, if the buttons or doors fail, it could be a pain. The biggest irritation is the navigation system disclaimer screen that always comes up, and you have to open the lower NAV control door to get rid of the obnoxious message.
I am also having a hard time finding the cars period, and dealers are using that as an excuss NOT to reduce the MSRP price. Much luck with you guys?
As for the price, I paid about halfway between invoice and MSRP, or about $2300 below MSRP. Some others have done better, many have paid near full MSRP. I would suggest you work hard at checking dealers farther from you, and just be patient. Eventually the supply will catch up with demand, and you can get better deal. I would never pay full MSRP, but that's always a personal decision.
Based on long experience with Toyotas, I would expect this car to have excellent reliability. It is a lot of money, but the car is so well equipped that it's a real bargain even at $35k plus. I now have a 2000 and 2005 Avalon - the 2000 is still in great shape.
Max
I recommend you see your dealer service department to see why your unit doesn't work...and hope you get better satisfaction than I have gotten. Otherwise I love the car, it's so unlike Toyota to offer such a poorly performing remote unit on such a fine vehicle.
Doug