Used Toyota Avensis

What to know before buying: Toyota Avensis

From 4 forum threads and 1 press test · updated 12/10/2026

What the reviews say

• An owner describes a 2005 Avensis 1.8 as excellent and trouble-free; the only complaint mentioned is that the velour interior gets dirty quickly.[1]one source
• An owner of a newer Avensis praises its response in summer and winter and its motorway stability, but finds the suspension slightly firm and sensitive.[2]one source
• Owners of 2004–2005 cars praise comfort, easy handling and a quiet cabin, although others report tyre noise and imperfect sound insulation.[3]one source
• The second-generation Avensis is described as reliable and comfortable, with soft suspension, a spacious cabin and ergonomic seats.[5]one source

Typical faults

• On second-generation cars, anti-roll-bar links and bushes are described as wear items requiring periodic replacement.[5]one source
• Owners report steering-rack problems on the second-generation Avensis.[5]one source
• The second-generation body is susceptible to corrosion, with the wheel arches and sills said to rust particularly quickly.[5]one source
• A 2005 2.2 D-4D suffered head-gasket failure at about 220,000 km, pressurising the cooling system; the owner says forums described it as a known quirk of this engine.[4]one source

  220 000–220 000 km · 2005–2005 · 2.2 D-4D

• One Avensis owner reported that the original fuel injectors lasted only 145,000 km before being replaced with new Denso units.[4]one source

  145 000–145 000 km

• An owner of a 2005 diesel reported difficult shifting and third gear baulking, attributing it to a worn clutch or release cylinder after extensive city driving.[3]one source

  2005–2005 · diesel

Which engine and version to take

• The second-generation 1.8- and 2.0-litre petrol versions are specifically highlighted as reliable.[5]one source
• For the 2004–2005 2.4 petrol version, a forum contributor reports positive experience among five clients, with one car reaching 300,000 km in Latvian use.[3]one source

What to avoid

• Treat the 2005 2.2 D-4D cautiously: one owner reports head-gasket failure at about 220,000 km, so avoid it without convincing evidence that the cooling system is healthy.[4]one source

What to check at the inspection

• On a second-generation car, inspect the wheel arches and sills carefully, as these are identified as fast-rusting areas.[5]one source
• During the test drive, check the steering rack and look for signs of worn anti-roll-bar links and bushes.[5]one source
• On a 2.2 D-4D, check for coolant loss, smoke and combustion gases in the cooling system, as these may indicate head-gasket failure.[4]one source
• On a diesel, test the clutch and every gear, especially third, because an owner reported baulking and difficult shifts.[3]one source
• Check the fuel-injector history and diagnostic results; one owner reported replacing the original injectors at just 145,000 km.[4]one source
• Drive the car at motorway speed on its current tyres: owner opinions on cabin quietness vary, and some specifically mention tyre noise.[3]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]forum.110km.ru — Отзыв о Toyota Avensis 2005 года Тойота Авенсис · forum
2. [2]forum.110km.ru — Отзыв о Toyota Avensis Тойота Авенсис · forum
3. [3]iauto.lv — Atsauksmes par Toyota Avensis Vagon 04 - Forums · forum
4. [4]auto.jautajums.lv — Toyota atsauksmes, modeļi, remonts | jautajums.lv - Auto, moto · forum
5. [5]auto.mail.ru — Названы пять минусов седана Toyota Avensis · press

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