I have been having the problem of suspension noise and when hitting bumps causing a loud thump in the front of the car. It sounds like your riding on tracks each time you hit a bump.

- Temple Hills, MD, USA

1997 Toyota Avalon the power steering rack leaks at 51000 miles and is a known problem to Toyota. Also need to be repaired at 99000 miles the front strut mounting also failed near 50000 miles and is failing again at 99500 miles. The power steering pump makes excessive noise and leaks. This problem started about 51000 miles as well. Weakness in the steering makes this a dangerous vehicle. I contacted the Toyota service center and they said they were well aware of the problems but the vehicle is out of warranty. A service bulletin has been issued to all Toyota dealers to check for these problems and recommend repairs. The cost averages $1000. While asking Toyota customer service for help I was told to contact the CEO in Japan if not satisfied with the repair costs.

- St Petersburg, FL, USA

I took the car to the dealer five times before they acknowledged a problem with the struts, and another two visits to repair them. They will do nothing about the steering, despite all the complaints on this website.

- Austin, TX, USA

While driving consumer complained of wheels bouncing, could not tell if it was the front end or back end or both, when vehicle was inspected mechanic found nothing, but on 10-23-00 the problem increased and a rattling sound was evident, consumer was advised that front struts were leaking and needed replacement, and now vehicle is out of warranty consumer is requesting reimbursement.

- Fair Lawn, NJ, USA

After noticing oil spots on pavement had mechanic check vehicle. Found rack and pinion steering needed to be replaced/ driver's seat belt had to be replaced due to tensioner tightening up with too much force/ tires were wearing out prematurely due to bad suspension/vehicle had rough ride, and struts were leaking.

- Freeport, NY, USA

This problem with the front struts has been ongoing since 1995 and the problems still exist in year 2001.

- Emporia, KS, USA

Failure of front struts assembly as evidenced by bouncing of front wheels and ratttling. Inspection by Toyota service dealer found struts to be leaking. Dealer and manufacturer stated that since the car was out of warranty on basis of time (3 years) even if not by mileage, they were not at fault. Following my problem, I found that a friend had asimilar problem on their rented 1998 model of the same car and turned the car in at the end of the rental instead of purchasing it.

- Fair Lawn, NJ, USA

Rack and pinion steering needed to be replaced/ leaking oil, and front strut support had to be repaired. Vehicle was rattling constantly from time of purchase. Also, had a brake problem. When brakes were applied there was sound. Only after brake pedal was applied a second time knocking sound stopped. In addition, driver's seat moved when making turns. Consumer felt unsafe in vehicle.

- Weston, LA, USA

Mcpherson struts are leaking and no longer gives any suspension. When a bump is hit front suspension rattles and shakes. Dealer has been contacted.

- Riverside, CA, USA

Struts.

- Tarzana, CA, USA

Right & left struts failed.

- West Hills, CA, USA