The 2006 Toyota Avalon is a full-size sedan, part of the third generation (2005-2012). Key trims included the base XL, mid-range XLS, and the luxurious Limited. Known for its spacious interior and smooth ride, the Avalon offered a comfortable and quiet experience. New, it ranged from approximately $27,000 to $34,000. Its popularity stemmed from its blend of luxury features and Toyota's reputation for reliability.
The Good
The 2006 Toyota Avalon offers a potent yet smooth V6 engine, ensuring confident performance. Toyota's renowned reliability provides peace of mind. The Avalon boasts a spacious, comfortable interior, appealing to those seeking a relaxing ride. Excellent value and fuel efficiency make it a practical choice, while its refined design offers a touch of luxury.
The Bad
Some 2006 Toyota Avalon models experienced issues with the electronic throttle control system. Potential buyers should inspect for transmission smoothness, as some reports indicate shifting problems. Water leaks into the cabin through the sunroof or rear window seals have also been reported. Check for rust, especially in regions with harsh winters.
2006 Toyota Avalon: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE)
- Horsepower: 268 hp @ 6200 rpm
- Fuel Economy: EPA estimated 22 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 6.6 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing
- Trim-Level Features:
- XL (Base): Cloth upholstery, dual-zone climate control, power windows and locks, keyless entry, AM/FM/CD stereo.
- XLS (Mid-Range): Adds leather upholstery, power driver's seat, alloy wheels, fog lights, JBL audio system (optional).
- Limited (Top-Tier): Adds heated and cooled front seats, power passenger seat, sunroof, upgraded JBL Synthesis audio system, rain-sensing wipers, HID headlights (optional), navigation system (optional).
- Other Key Specs:
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
- Seating Capacity: 5 passengers
- Curb Weight: Approximately 3,500 lbs
2006 Toyota Avalon Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2006 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | Avalon |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | GEORGETOWN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2GR-FE |
| Engine Size | 3.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | Automatic 5-Speed |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
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Check
Accident
Check
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Theft
Check
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2006 Toyota Avalon Have?
The 2006 Toyota Avalon has been subject to a few recalls, primarily related to potential issues with the accelerator pedal and floor mat entrapment, as part of broader Toyota recalls. Some owners have reported issues with the electronic throttle control system, leading to hesitation or reduced power. Transmission problems, such as harsh shifting or slipping, have also been documented, though not widespread. Water leaks, particularly around the sunroof and rear window seals, are another reported concern, potentially leading to mold or electrical issues. Long-term reliability is generally good, consistent with Toyota's reputation; however, preventative maintenance, especially fluid changes (transmission, coolant) is crucial. Some owners have mentioned issues with the oxygen sensors and catalytic converters as the car ages. Earlier model years of the third generation (2005-2006) are more prone to these issues compared to later years. Regularly checking for error codes and addressing minor issues promptly can significantly extend the vehicle's lifespan. Prior owner maintenance records are important to review before purchasing a used 2006 Avalon.
How long will the 2006 Toyota Avalon last?
With proper maintenance, a 2006 Toyota Avalon can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report exceeding 250,000 miles with consistent care. Key to longevity is regular oil changes, transmission fluid services, and timely replacement of wear items like brakes and tires. Long-term durability is generally strong, but potential weaknesses include the aforementioned electronic throttle control system, transmission issues, and water leaks. Rust can become a concern in colder climates. Well-maintained examples demonstrate excellent long-term reliability, while neglected vehicles may experience more frequent and costly repairs as they age.
Positive Owner Reviews
Angela
I purchased a 2006 brand new. I fell in love with it. Everything was perfect until now. I haven't been able to drive for a couple of years so it stays parked. I learned that if you don't put some use to it and just keep it parked, you will discover problems which are more my fault. I never had any problems until I got sick and stopped driving. I refuse to let my car go because I plan to drive again and it's the most reliable, quiet and comfortable ride. When I would give others a ride, they loved it! I'm just annoyed that toyota doesn't make that style anymore. The space, reliability and comfort is amazing!!!
Erik
I agree with all these reviews I purchased this car for 4k in 2020 with 90k miles. Now has 120k miles and hasnt missed a beat, just gas!! Amazing car!!! Great ride and power nothing not to like!!
Peter
I bought mine 2006 avalon fir 500 dollars it now has over 251k it runs like brand new love this car good if you have kids also 30 miles per gallon on the fwy. City around 18 would buy another one in a heart beat. Great car
Negative Owner Reviews
me
I purchased a 2006 Avalon new in 2005. I, for the most part, had thought it was the best car I'd ever owned. I liked the spacious seating and the quick response when accerlerlating. However, the cd player has, on several occasions, quit working with a message "error 4" flashing on the screen. When you look in the owner's manual, it tells you to consult your dealer if this message appears. To which they tell you, you need a new stereo. My car has always been garage kept and I'm one of those retentive people that uses a sunshade. A month or so ago a small crack appeared over the passenger air bag. Within a week it was running from top to bottom. A week after that, another one showed up above the wood trim on the passenger side and is now progressing across the dash to the driver's side. I contacted a local trim shop who said the only thing I could do was order a new dash from the dealer. I went online to look up dash cracks in Totoya & Lexus and the first website that popped up was of people who also had dash cracks within just a couple of years of ownership that dated back to 2003. So, I emailed Toyota to see if they were aware of the problem and could offer any recommendations. I received the pat reply that my car was out of warranty, so it was my responsibility, I should contact my local dealer; sorry for the inconvenience. I then sent another email explaining why I wasn't pleased with some of the experiences I'd received at my local dealer. I again received the sorry for your inconvenience note, thanks for contacting us. At this point, when I really thought about some of the glitches, the poor service my dealership had, and the "I really don't care" attitude of the manufacturer, I realized that maybe my car wasn't as great as I had originally thought. With this in mind, I've come to the decision that I would never buy another Toyota product and would share my experience with others to spare them the disappointment. In today's economy, why would you want to spend your hard earned money with a company that doesn't care.
Doc
my limited 2006 avalon will sometimes not start when i press on the starter button. have taken it back to the dealer many times with no satisfaction. has anyone else had this problem??????????????
Car Reviewers
This car isn't a best buy. The lexus es class is a better buy. The Toyota Avalon 2005-2007 has many problems and the 2008-2009 Toyota Avalon had made changes I'd perfer to get the 2008-2009 Toyota Avalon has better performance and its a better buy but I suggest to get either the lexus es because the Toyota Avalon is a replica of the Lexus es but the Toyota Avalon is cheaper. Good Luck on your choice take my word and you will be satisfied. I owned an Avalon didn't like it, it was hard to sell but still got a rid of it with a big loss and I got the new Lexus es and im satisfied with lexus.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2006 Toyota Avalon came standard with features like dual-zone climate control, power windows and locks, and a basic AM/FM/CD stereo. Higher trims (XLS and Limited) added leather upholstery, a power driver's seat, and an upgraded JBL audio system. Optional features included a navigation system, HID headlights, and rain-sensing wipers.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles, but the Avalon did offer available features like traction control and anti-lock brakes (ABS).
Safety features included front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags. Electronic Stability Control (VSC) was standard on some trims and optional on others.
The 2006 Toyota Avalon received generally positive crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). NHTSA awarded it 5 stars in frontal and side-impact tests for both driver and passenger. IIHS rated it "Good" in frontal offset crash testing.
While it lacked the advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) found in newer cars, the 2006 Avalon provided a solid foundation of safety features for its time.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles, but the Avalon did offer available features like traction control and anti-lock brakes (ABS).
Safety features included front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags. Electronic Stability Control (VSC) was standard on some trims and optional on others.
The 2006 Toyota Avalon received generally positive crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). NHTSA awarded it 5 stars in frontal and side-impact tests for both driver and passenger. IIHS rated it "Good" in frontal offset crash testing.
While it lacked the advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) found in newer cars, the 2006 Avalon provided a solid foundation of safety features for its time.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Arctic Frost Pearl
Black Sand Pearl
Desert Sand Mica
Nautical Blue Metallic
Phantom Gray Pearl
Vintage Red Pearl
Barcelona Red Metallic
Cashmere Beige Metallic
Interior Colors
Dark Charcoal
Light Gray
Ivory
2006 Toyota Avalon Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2006 Toyota Avalon ranged from approximately $27,000 to $34,000, depending on the trim level and options. As of 2024, used market prices typically range from $5,000 to $12,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Avalon has depreciated significantly due to its age. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, overall condition (mechanical and cosmetic), maintenance history, and trim level. Avalons with lower mileage, clean titles, and complete maintenance records command higher prices. Limited trims with desirable options also tend to hold their value better.
2006 Toyota Avalon Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for the 2006 Toyota Avalon are generally moderate. Fuel costs are reasonable, given its V6 engine, especially if driven primarily on the highway. Maintenance is relatively affordable, thanks to Toyota's reliability and readily available parts. Repairs can be more expensive if major components like the transmission or electronic throttle control system fail. Overall, the 2006 Avalon is considered reasonably economical to own, particularly if properly maintained and major repairs are avoided.
2006 Toyota Avalon Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
23 gallons
City Mileage
22 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
31 miles/gallon
2006 Toyota Avalon Safety Rating
NHTSA
2006 Toyota Avalon Insurance
Insurance for a 2006 Toyota Avalon is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2006 Toyota Avalon Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2006 Toyota Avalon competed with the Buick LaCrosse, Chrysler 300, Ford Five Hundred (later Taurus), and Nissan Maxima. In terms of reliability, the Avalon typically outperformed the Chrysler 300 and Ford Five Hundred. The Nissan Maxima offered sportier handling, but the Avalon provided a smoother, more comfortable ride.
Feature-wise, the Avalon was competitive, offering a similar level of equipment to its rivals, particularly in the higher trim levels. The Buick LaCrosse provided a comparable level of comfort and features, targeting a similar demographic.
Price-wise, the Avalon was generally in line with its competitors. A potentially better alternative, depending on priorities, could be a well-maintained Lexus ES 330 (a mechanically similar car to the Avalon) offering a slightly more luxurious experience. The Acura TL, while smaller, provided a sportier driving experience with comparable reliability. If looking for more aggressive styling and available AWD, the Chrysler 300 could be considered, but with a tradeoff in reliability. For value and space, the Avalon is a strong contender.
Feature-wise, the Avalon was competitive, offering a similar level of equipment to its rivals, particularly in the higher trim levels. The Buick LaCrosse provided a comparable level of comfort and features, targeting a similar demographic.
Price-wise, the Avalon was generally in line with its competitors. A potentially better alternative, depending on priorities, could be a well-maintained Lexus ES 330 (a mechanically similar car to the Avalon) offering a slightly more luxurious experience. The Acura TL, while smaller, provided a sportier driving experience with comparable reliability. If looking for more aggressive styling and available AWD, the Chrysler 300 could be considered, but with a tradeoff in reliability. For value and space, the Avalon is a strong contender.
Ranks #145 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 145 | 2006 Toyota Avalon | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Toyota Avalon a Good Sedan?
The 2006 Toyota Avalon is an ideal choice for those seeking a comfortable, reliable, and spacious full-size sedan at an affordable price point. It's well-suited for families or individuals who prioritize a smooth ride and a quiet cabin. Whether it's worth buying depends on the condition and price of the used vehicle. Look for examples with thorough maintenance records and no signs of major issues like transmission problems or water leaks. The XLS or Limited trims offer a better value proposition due to the added features. Avoid examples with excessive rust or a history of neglect. If found in good condition, a 2006 Avalon represents a solid value for a dependable daily driver.
Angela on January 3, 2025
I purchased a 2006 brand new.I purchased a 2006 brand new. I fell in love with it. Everything was perfect until now. I haven't been able to drive for a couple of years so it stays parked. I learned that if you don't put some use to it and just keep it parked, you will discover problems which are more my fault. I never had any problems until I got sick and stopped driving. I refuse to let my car go because I plan to drive again and it's the most reliable, quiet and comfortable ride. When I would give others a ride, they loved it! I'm just annoyed that toyota doesn't make that style anymore. The space, reliability and comfort is amazing!!!
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Erik on August 10, 2023
Amazing VehicleI agree with all these reviews I purchased this car for 4k in 2020 with 90k miles. Now has 120k miles and hasnt missed a beat, just gas!! Amazing car!!! Great ride and power nothing not to like!!
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Peter on May 13, 2023
Great carI bought mine 2006 avalon fir 500 dollars it now has over 251k it runs like brand new love this car good if you have kids also 30 miles per gallon on the fwy. City around 18 would buy another one in a heart beat. Great car
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RobertH on March 21, 2021
Best car I have ever ownedI purchased this car used, 6 years ago. I presently have 229,000+ miles. Anyone that has been in my car is amazed. Would highly recommend this vehicle
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Anthony car guy on January 11, 2021
Very reliable it's a great carIts has plenty of leg room front and back has plenty of power love my leather interior heated seats I like my controls on the stern wheel control radio just a great car all around
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Nebleonic on November 16, 2020
Excellent Car. Good value for the money!!The Avalon is a very comfortable ride. Handles great and gets 30 plus MPG Hwy. You take care of it, the car will return the favor.
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Letsgocards on July 24, 2020
Most reliable car I have owned.Had this car for 7 years and only had to get an alternated replaced. That’s all the maintenance I have had to do since having. Still runs strong and will for many years to come.
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SFox on May 12, 2020
Wish I had bought itGreat vehicle. Lost out when, before I had a chance to have my mechanic check it out, the owner sold it to somebody else (literally within an hour of my test drive).
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Drew on November 1, 2019
Ok not the bestRough ride for luxury end of the Toyota spectrum. Short on leg room. Transmission slips at times. Fuel consumption is not ideal. Not much different than the Camry.
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My Girl on August 27, 2019
I bought my car brand new and had it 13 years.I loved my ride and people were impressed at the roomie smooth ride it had. Unfortunately we were t-boned in an accident. Im devastated. I want another Avalon!!
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Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.