2008 Toyota Avalon: engine overheating

Filed Oct 21, 2018 · Lights, Transmission · 70,000 miles · TN

1. High beams and day running lights inoperable (discovered january 2018). 2. Transmission overheated and caused car to decelerate in april 2018.

Filed May 31, 2014 · Lights · 65,152 miles · OH

On servicing of model xls, service adviser noted that hi beam/drl's were not functioning. Investigation revealed exploded halogen lamps. Correction required a redesigned replacement of both headlight assemblies, as noted in tsb 44-0010, at an approx. Cost of $900.00 . This was apparently due to a design flaw in the original headlight housing which allowed overheating and caused the lamp explosion. The tsb recognized this condition but does not replace the defect after a provided warranty extension to 5 years/72,000 miles. The loss of high beam lighting is a safety issue which can go undetected until needed. Although daytime running lights, (drl's), are not required, they do provide the required lighting during times when windshield wipers are required (rain, snow, sleet. Loss of either affects driving safety.

Filed May 15, 2014 · Lights · 85,000 miles · AR

I am the owner of a 2008 toyota avalon. Right after we purchased the car, we have had issues with the headlights going out. The headlights are flickering on and off at random times. On december 14, 2013 while driving at night, both headlights went out at the same time nearly causing an accident (luckily the lights came back on when I turned them off/on quickly). I took the car to our local toyota service center and they told me that the only way to fix the problem is to completely replace the whole lighting assembly at the tune of $2570.04. The service center also explained that the housing for the bulbs was too small and this is causing the bulbs to overheat and go out. It was after 2010 that toyota redesigned the housing and fixed the issue. Apparently, toyota extended the warranty to 5 years/72,000 miles. Ironically, it appears we are just over that. I am unable to drive my car at night due to this safety issue. I also don't agree that we should have to pay $2500 to have new light assemblies installed in our car. This is an issue of a bad design on toyotas part and I refuse to play a victim in this ridiculous solution to such a severe safety issue. I am asking toyota to do the right thing and replace the headlight assembly and take care of their customer. The fact that there is an issue with the headlight design and the fact that toyota is fully aware should be enough to have this fixed. There should be no limittime wise or mileage wise on a safety issue this huge for toyota's customers.

Filed Nov 21, 2013 · Lights · CA

While driving my vehicle the headlights will go out intermittently. Initially we thought it was the right bulb but sometimes its the left bulb. After contacting the dealership, we were told that it will be about 1500.00 to fix this problem. After doing some research, I found out that the problem will not be solved and many owners of the cars are spending in excess of 2500.00 and the problem continues. Its a safety hazard. I contacted toyota co and the response I received was "the high intensity discharge bulb has an enhanced light output for a better field of vision and thus safety. The bulbs will turn off if the bulb is starting to overheat in order to protect the electronic control unit. There are times by simply turning off the headlights and then back on the hid will turn back on." the lights can be on for 5 minutes and they will turn off. After doing further research I learned this is not an isolated incident but widespread with 2008 toyota avalon. Its dangerous and a safety hazard. Something should be done.

Filed May 2, 2011 · Lights · 40,000 miles · CA

2008 toyota avalon limited, 40,000 miles. Both high beam headlamps broke. Dealer knows it's a manufacturer design problem due to overheating. Replacement cost for both headlight assemblies is more than $2,000. Manufacturer has been contacted and will not cover cost.

Filed Mar 11, 2011 · Lights · OH

Toyota and the federal safety agency continues to ignore the problems with the intermittent operation of hid headlights in the avalon. They intent for someone to died before correcting this problem. I was informed today by toyota direct that my hid computers are overheating causing my right headlamp to fail for the second time and the left highbeam needing to be replaced. My cost to fix is $2788.00. Technician apologized but clearly it's not a dealership problem - this is a manufacturer problem - same a prius. If tanazians can overthrown a government on facebook, surely avalon owners can kill production of this vehicle before someone dies in an accident due to no headlights. Of course we need headlights to drive our vehicles at night!! I am going to create a facebook page today to start the global process of taking this vehicle of the market. Those reading this, please pass the message to those looking to purchase an avalon. Facebook, twitter and social media that works. I refuse to left toyota crap on the safety of my family and yours should we meet at night--and I have to navigate without headlights. States require headlights to be on when it's raining, day lamps for safety and of course at night. Look for the facebook page. Never never buy a toyota!

Filed Feb 16, 2010 · Electrical · PA

Musty wet smell inside car when heater or air conditioner fan is turned on. Off and on smell of overheated electrical wires.