IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
1997–2003 Toyota Avensis Mk1 (T22)

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 1997–2003 Toyota Avensis Mk1 (T22). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Structural Corrosion

SeriousBodywork & Rust

Ageing T22s commonly rust around the sills, rear arches, rear floor and brake-pipe areas, turning a cheap dependable saloon into a welding project.

Estimated cost: £300–£1,500Affects: 1997–2003

Typical symptoms

  • •Bubbling arches
  • •Crusty sills
  • •MOT advisories for corrosion or brake pipes

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Inspect the sills and rear arches closely
  • ✓Look underneath for flaky metal around the rear floor
  • ✓Check the brake lines for heavy corrosion

Starter Motor Failure

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The starter motor can fail on higher-mileage T22s, especially if the car is used for short trips.

Estimated cost: £200–£400Affects: 1997–2003

Typical symptoms

  • •Slow cranking
  • •Clicking noise when turning key
  • •Car fails to start

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Listen for slow cranking or clicking on startup

Alternator Failure

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The alternator can fail on higher-mileage cars, leading to battery drain and electrical issues.

Estimated cost: £200–£400Affects: 1997–2003

Typical symptoms

  • •Battery warning light
  • •Dimming headlights
  • •Electrical accessories failing

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check battery voltage with engine running (should be ~14V)
  • ✓Look for battery warning light

Air Conditioning Compressor Failure

MinorCooling System

The A/C compressor can seize on older cars, particularly if the system has not been used regularly.

Estimated cost: £300–£600Affects: 1997–2003

Typical symptoms

  • •A/C not blowing cold
  • •A/C light flashing
  • •Noise from compressor area

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test the A/C at full blast
  • ✓Listen for compressor clutch engagement

Buying Tips for the 1997 Toyota Avensis Mk1 (T22)

  • ✓Check the rear arches, sills and rear underbody carefully rather than assuming a tidy top half means a sound shell.
  • ✓A well-kept 1.8 petrol is usually the safest buy; diesel and ultra-cheap examples are more likely to be worn out now.
  • ✓Inspect the MOT history for repeated corrosion notes around brake pipes, subframes or suspension mounts.

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Other Toyota Avensis Mk1 (T22) Year Periods

1997–2003

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