NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Toyota Avalon Safety Ratings
The 2021 Toyota Avalon scores 89 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index (Strong), with a 5-star overall NHTSA crash rating, 2 recalls, and 21 owner complaints on file.
Updated Oct 1, 2026 from NHTSA data · Reviewed by Ivanna Verstliar
The 2021 Toyota Avalon presents a strong safety profile, evidenced by its NHTSA Safety Index of 89/100. This places it firmly in the Strong band. While the overall NHTSA crash-test results are positive, the vehicle's safety record is specifically impacted by two distinct recall campaigns, both centered on the airbag systems. These recalls represent the most significant safety concern for the 2021 Avalon.
The 2021 Toyota Avalon received an overall 5-star crash-test rating and a NHTSA Safety Index of 89 out of 100, based on NHTSA data.
MotorCaliber Safety Desk // NHTSA data, verified Oct 1, 2026
Among the 94 Sedans from 2021 that NHTSA has crash-tested, the 2021 Toyota Avalon ranks 42 for overall NHTSA Safety Index.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
| NHTSA Safety Index | 89 / 100 (Strong) |
|---|---|
| Overall crash rating | 5 of 5 stars |
| Frontal / Side / Rollover | 4 / 5 / 4 stars |
| Rollover risk | 10.5% |
| Recalls on file | 2 |
| Owner complaints | 21 (unverified allegations) |
| Class rank | 42 of 94 Sedans tested for 2021 |
| Data verified | Oct 1, 2026 |
ANALYSISHow safe is the 2021 Toyota Avalon?
The 2021 Toyota Avalon AWD sedan represents a measurable step forward in safety standing compared to its immediate predecessor. The NHTSA Safety Index climbed from 85 out of 100 on the 2020 model to 89 out of 100 here, a four-point gain within the same Strong band. That movement is driven by a near-complete avoidance technology score of 10 out of 10, reflecting standard fitment of forward collision warning and lane departure warning across this trim configuration, alongside a crash protection score of 61 out of 70 and a defect record component of 17.5 out of 20. The two recall campaigns that define this model year are both concentrated in the air bag system, one covering frontal air bag hardware and one targeting the occupant classification sensor. The sensor recall was issued in 2023, meaning some 2021 units still in circulation may carry an unresolved remedy. The 21 owner complaints are unverified allegations, but the concentration of 12 reported concerns under Air Bags is consistent with the recall activity and warrants attention during any pre-purchase VIN check.
NCAP // CRASH TESTHow did the 2021 Toyota Avalon perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Toyota Avalon achieved a strong safety profile, evidenced by its overall 5 out of 5 stars from NHTSA. This includes a perfect 5 star rating for side-impact protection, highlighting a key area of occupant safety. The Avalon's frontal crash protection received 4 out of 5 stars, with rollover protection also rated at 4 out of 5 stars. Its rollover risk was assessed at 11 percent, and it registered no tip in the dynamic tip-test.
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15845
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSDoes the 2021 Toyota Avalon have any recalls?
Two recall campaigns cover the 2021 Avalon. The first addresses frontal air bags, issued in late 2020. The second, issued in late 2023, targets the occupant classification sensor within the air bag system. Both involve air bag components, and neither has been characterized as a do-not-drive or park-outside directive in the NHTSA data provided.
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION23V865000
Risk: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed in February 2024. Some final remedy owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. Letters will continue to be mailed in phases through January 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexu
Reported 2023-12-20
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL20V734000
Risk: In the event of a crash, an air bag that does not perform as designed can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering column, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TB17/20TA17.
Reported 2020-11-25
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSWhat do owners report about the 2021 Toyota Avalon?
NHTSA has received 21 unverified consumer complaints for this model year. The most frequently alleged problem component is Air Bags, cited in 12 reports. Engine issues account for 4 alleged reports, Vehicle Speed Control for 3, and Forward Collision Avoidance and Service Brakes each appear in 2 unverified allegations.
21 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.
USED BUYERWhat should used buyers know about the 2021 Toyota Avalon?
The 2021 Avalon has been the subject of two separate recall campaigns concerning its airbag systems. A significant recall issued in 2023, addressing the occupant classification system, is particularly relevant for prospective buyers. Given its recency, verifying completion of this and a prior airbag recall campaign via VIN lookup on the NHTSA website is strongly advised. Purchasers should secure written confirmation that both issues have been fully remedied before acquiring the vehicle.
- The 2021 Avalon Safety Index of 89 out of 100 is four points higher than the 2020 model year score of 85, reflecting improved standing in this specific year.
- Both recall campaigns for this model year target air bag components, one issued in 2020 covering frontal air bags and one issued in 2023 covering the occupant classification sensor.
- Of 21 unverified owner complaints on file with NHTSA, 12 allege problems with Air Bags, making it by far the most reported component category for this model year.
- The 2021 Avalon AWD configuration earned a perfect 10 out of 10 on the avoidance technology component of the Safety Index, with forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and electronic stability control all standard.
RANKINGSWhere the 2021 Toyota Avalon places
The 2021 Toyota Avalon qualifies for these MotorCaliber safety rankings:
FAQ2021 Toyota Avalon safety questions
Was the 2021 Toyota Avalon crash-tested by NHTSA?
Yes. NHTSA crash-tested the 2021 Toyota Avalon, and it earns a NHTSA Safety Index of 89 out of 100, placing it in the Strong band. The index combines federal crash-test stars, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the recall record.
What are the 2021 Toyota Avalon crash-test star ratings?
In NHTSA testing the 2021 Toyota Avalon earned 5 out of 5 stars for overall, 4 out of 5 stars for frontal, 5 out of 5 stars for side, and 4 out of 5 stars for rollover. Its measured rollover risk is 10.5%. Categories NHTSA did not test show as not rated.
How many recalls does the 2021 Toyota Avalon have?
According to NHTSA recall data, 2 vehicle recalls are on file for the 2021 Toyota Avalon. Confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov to see which apply to your car.
How many complaints have owners filed about the 2021 Toyota Avalon?
According to NHTSA's complaint database, 21 owner complaints are on file for the 2021 Toyota Avalon. These are unverified allegations submitted by owners, not confirmed defects, and include reports involving a crash.
Cross-check this record against independent expert reviews and the live NHTSA database before you buy.
Other Avalon years
Rivals in Sedan (2021)
| Vehicle | NHTSA Safety Index | Overall stars | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 Audi RS 5 Sportback | 100/100 | not rated | 0 |
| 2021 Audi S5 Sportback | 100/100 | not rated | 0 |
| 2021 Nissan Maxima | 100/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Audi A4 Allroad | 99/100 | not rated | 1 |
| 2021 Cadillac CT5-V | 97/100 | not rated | 0 |
| 2021 Infiniti Q50 | 97/100 | not rated | 3 |
- DATA Pulled directly from NHTSA: New Car Assessment Program crash tests (VehicleId 15845), the recallsByVehicle and complaintsByVehicle records for the Toyota Avalon 2021.
- SCORE The NHTSA Safety Index (0-100) weights crash protection, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the defect record. Full formula on the methodology page. It ranks 42 of 94 in the Sedan class for 2021.
- EDITED Written by the MotorCaliber Safety Desk and reviewed for accuracy and plain-language clarity by Ivanna Verstliar, Editor, against the source figures on this page.
- VERIFIED Data last synced Oct 1, 2026. Recalls change; confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. See our corrections policy and disclosure.