2006 Toyota Avalon engine problems

Tl* the contact owns a 2006 toyota avalon. While driving at approximately 5 MPH an explosion occurred in the engine and smoke began to come from under the hood. The vehicle was pulled over and the highway patrol appeared on the scene. A police report was filed but no injuries were reported. The vehicle was towed to an insurance company garage where an independent mechanic was unable to diagnose the failure. The vehicle had not been repaired. The failure and current mileages were 142,000.

Started car and smoke began pouring from the exhaust while stationary. Checked oil level and found to be within normal range. When driving, car was sluggish under acceleration with intermittent smoke. Took car to san marcos toyota and they found the engine to be sludged and require an overhaul of the engine ($4900) or replacement of the engine ($6900). The vehicle had only 140,000 miles. We ended up having an independent mechanic overhaul/cleanup the top side of engine for $4000.