Please bear with me for a moment: I recently said goodbye to a car that I had known for almost all of my recalled life. I had to decide whether to kick the car on the curb and move on from this significant life event or to honor it with a fitting send-off. I went through some waxing and waning before settling on the latter.
You know, even when it was brand new, my car was never anything special. It’s a 1997 Toyota Camry, and if you think you might recognize the make and model, you surely do because 32 million of them were produced by Toyota. It was the pinnacle of dependability, delivered an unanticipated punch of pure horsepower, and stunned everyone with its opulent and indubitably comfortable interior. Furthermore, the fact that it was commonplace does not lessen its significance.
Now, take a deep breath before you start reading this. Put yourself in the shoes of a buyer looking for a mid-range commuting car who just so happened to pick up a brochure for the new Toyota Camry. It is the year 1997.
In This Article...
What number of Toyota Camrys are produced?
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, in the center of the Bluegrass State, produces Toyota Camry vehicles. This Toyota hub, which is the biggest auto production facility in the world and is based in Georgetown, Kentucky, cranks out 550,000 vehicles and 600,000 engines annually. The Toyota facility ensures that the Toyota Camry has a distinctly American flavor thanks to supply from more than 270 automotive suppliers in the United States.
What year was the finest for Camry?
Consumer Reports gave the seventh generation Camry’s full production a perfect dependability grade. The most dependable and reasonably priced used Camry sedans can be found in this area. In particular, the 2015 Toyota Camry is inexpensive. These versions are among the top used Camrys, according to Consumer Reports. The Camry is currently in its best generation to date during this run of model years.
When did the Toyota Camry start having issues?
The Camry has experienced some difficult times, from engine flaws to recalls that caused owners and manufacturers alike much stress. The years you should avoid and the explanations for why are coming up.
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Toyota Camry
Simply because it has the most issues, the 2007 model is at the top of the list of Toyota Camry years to stay away from. RepairPal lists problems with the automatic transmission as one of the most common complaints. The problem starts when the transmission lags when attempting to accelerate; this can cause it to heat up and may necessitate replacement before owners would want.
The 2007 Camry also has issues with a malfunctioning check engine light, missed shifts, and power steering issues. Even though the complaints are not as severe as those for other models, prospective buyers should nevertheless be aware of them.
Toyota Camry
Although there were significantly fewer complaints, the 2008 Camry didn’t show much improvement. Similar gearbox problems were reported by drivers, who also observed that the check engine light frequently created issues. After the car had traveled 100,000 miles, the ignition coil would start to break, which was one of the more noticeable problems with the 2008 model.
Toyota Camry
The 2009 model continued to have transmission and check engine light issues despite a number of concerns being documented throughout the years. Another minor issue with the 2009 model was the accumulation of muck near the engine, which was caused directly by using the same oil.
Which Toyota Camry generation is the most dependable?
The Camry has consistently been one of Toyota’s best-selling vehicles. It is a popular because to its dependability and design. But which year of the Toyota Camry is the best?
The Toyota Camry is generally regarded for its dependability and is known for its straightforward yet attractive look. Nearly all models of the Toyota Camry are respectable and affordable. However, data and user reviews show that the 2013 to 2015 versions are the most dependable.
The Toyota Camry doesn’t need an introduction because it has been a mainstay of the automotive industry for close to 40 years. The Camry continues to sell like hotcakes despite a substantial shift in public preference toward contemporary crossovers.
The Toyota Camry has consistently maintained a high position among other passenger cars, according to Car & Driver. The midsized sedan continues to be the vehicle of choice for American families, selling over 200,000 units annually.
What does Corolla mean?
The Latin origin of the term “corolla” translates to “small crown.” The corolla, however, can also refer to a flower’s outer petals in English. Why? Just take a look at a sunflower! It’s an appropriate moniker for a compact, fashionable automobile.
What does Camry mean?
The name of the Toyota Camry actually shares a lot of similarities with the Corolla because it too derives from a word that means “crown.” The name Camry is derived from kanmuri, the Japanese word for crown. So, you might say that it’s the king or queen of sedans?
Is the Toyota 2.2 a reliable motor?
Electrical difficulties, such as malfunctioning warning lights, taillights, and reverse lights, could result from broken wires in the wiring harness for the trunk lid, which is located close to the driver-side hinge. When the trunk lid is opened and closed, the harness flexes, which is where wires usually break.
Stalls and choppy idle might be brought on by a dirty idle air control (IAC) valve in the throttle body. If there are no other problems, cleaning the IAC valve may be helpful.
The valve cover gasket frequently spills oil. In the 4-cylinder engine, replacing the gasket set is inexpensive and simple (takes 0.8 hours), while the V6 engine demands more effort (3.9 hours). Since they are located in the same position and are old, it is a good idea to replace them simultaneously.
The code P0135 may be brought on by a malfunctioning oxygen sensor (Bank 1 Sensor 1). It will be necessary to replace the sensor. Bank 1 is the rear cylinder bank in the 1MZ-FE engine.
A malfunctioning EVAP vacuum switching valve may be the source of the error code P0446 (VSV). If you want to save money, consider replacing just the EVAP VSV and cleaning all the vacuum hoses at the canister. In some cases, this may be enough to solve the issue. The repair frequently entails replacing the EVAP vacuum switching valve (VSV) and the charcoal canister as an assembly.
A rattling or knocking sound coming from the front suspension could be the result of bad strut mounts. Similar noises can also be brought on by bad stabilizer bar bushings or linkages. Check the front suspension if you hear any knocking noises because the vehicle may be unsafe to drive.
The blower motor resistor should be checked first if the cabin heating fan only operates at high speed. This issue is typically brought on by corrosion, either in the connector or in the resistor itself. The blower motor resistor is a cheap and comparatively simple component to repair.
The standard 2.2-liter 4-cylinder DOHC 5S-FE engine produces 136 horsepower and is straightforward and simple to maintain.
The 3.0 liter 1MZ-FE V6 with 194 horsepower is smooth and powerful. With routine maintenance, you shouldn’t have many issues with either engine because they are both extremely good, dependable engines.
Both the 5S-FE and 1MZ-FE engines have a timing belt instead of a chain (for 2000 and 2001 Camry, Toyota recommends replacing the timing belt every 90,000 miles). Timing belt replacement will cost between $320 and $570 (more for a V6).
Fuel Efficiency: The 1998-2000 Camry’s EPA-rated 20/28 mpg or 11.8/8.4 L/100 km city/highway rating translates to a range of about 382 miles (614 km) on a single 18.5-gallon (70 liter) tank with a mix of 55 percent city and 45 percent highway use. The 19982001 Camry V6 auto delivers 13.8/9.4 L/100 km in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
The Camry provides a smooth and quiet ride. Handling is also good. The steering is weak and provides little feel. Although expansion joints and road bumps are effectively absorbed by soft suspension, considerable body roll is still apparent when turning. Overall, even if it isn’t athletic, handling is safe and pleasant.
The revised 1998-2001 Toyota Camry scored four stars for the driver and five stars for the front passenger in the NHTSA frontal crash testing, while the 1997 Toyota Camry received four stars for the driver and four stars for the front passenger.
What troubles do Toyota Camrys have the most frequently?
- Regular Transmission Issues There have been more instances of Toyota Camry transmission issues in current versions. Shift delays, stalling, grinding or leaping during low gear acceleration, shaking while in motion, a detectable burning smell, or whistling noises originating from under the hood are all symptoms of transmission issues. It can also be an indicator of a Toyota Camry transmission issue if you have poor fuel efficiency but haven’t seen any of the symptoms above. The price to fix the problem will also vary because gearbox faults can range from Toyota Camry gear change troubles to a reduction in fuel efficiency. As a result, we always advise seeking out a qualified Toyota dealership or repair facility to receive an accurate diagnosis prior to beginning treatment. Ask the mechanic what kind of maintenance you can perform while you’re there to assist prevent your transmission problems from occuring again in the future.
- issues with defective brakes
- Owners have observed that there are a few different ways in which the common Camry brake problem issues present themselves. The most frequent reports are shown below.
- brake failure that occurs intermittently and renders the brakes inoperative. Any type of braking failure carries the risk of making drivers lose control of their vehicles.
- The ABS light never goes out. The part of the braking system that keeps the wheel from locking up when the brakes are applied is called the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS). The ABS system won’t activate properly when you apply the brakes if the ABS light is on. Although it is technically possible to drive with the ABS light on, it is not recommended because it can be hazardous.
- The brake pedals might turn mushy (sink all the way to the floor) or stiff before they stop responding (have to press down on the pedal heavily).
- When the brakes are applied, the car starts to shake. Even while you can still drive the car when it has this condition, it might occasionally be so bad that the owner finds it challenging to do so.
Don’t keep driving if you think your car’s brakes aren’t working properly. As soon as you can, take it to the repair shop for a thorough diagnosis to determine the root of the issue and the best course of action.
- Starter Error Last but not least, a starter failure was one of the most prevalent Toyota Camry issues. Most owners just said that their automobile would suddenly stop starting one day. The owners may have thought it was random, but there are actually a number of primary causes for this to happen. Dead batteries are most likely the root of your Toyota Camry’s starting issues, followed by possible alternator or starter difficulties.
The starter, alternator, or battery are typically totally replaced in order to fix the majority of no-start difficulties. However, sometimes sanitizing the connections or fixing the fuel or ignition system will work. You’ll have a better understanding of the issue and the appropriate solution for your particular circumstance if you have a mechanic professionally diagnose the problem.
Over the years, a few typical Toyota Camry issues have surfaced. However, the Camry has been and will continue to be one of the most popular cars in the US because of its solid reputation for being dependable, safe, and gas-efficient.
How long does the transmission of a Toyota Camry last?
The Toyota is absurdly inexpensive to operate, with an annual maintenance cost of of $388.
The Toyota Camry actually has the lowest maintenance costs of any midsize car.
Only approximately 11% of issues with the Toyota Camry, according to RepairPal, are severe (the average is 12 percent ).
The Camry’s lower-than-average rate of severe repairs is a good thing because severe repairs cost three times as much as the average.
The cost of some typical Toyota Camry repairs is listed below:
- Replace a blown motor for $265 to $278.
- Replacement of the clutch slave cylinder: $126-$186
- Replacement of the ignition lock cylinder: $288355
- Replacement of the timing chain tensioner: $980 to $1,225
- Replacement of the headlamp control module: $587-$599
How Long Does the Brakes Last?
The lifespan of the braking rotors and pads can range from 30,000 to 70,000 kilometers.
The brakes will age more quickly if you brake frequently, as in stop-and-go traffic.
How Long Do the Tires Last?
With the right care, the tires on your Toyota Camry can last up to 60,000 miles.
The life of your tires will be extended and uneven wear will be reduced with routine wheel alignment and tire rotation.
How Long Do the Spark Plugs Last?
According to studies, a Toyota Camry’s spark plugs should last 70,000 to 100,000 kilometers.
However, they may wear out too soon due to factors like often stopping and starting your car.
How many miles are there in a Camry?
You might also be curious about the Toyota Camry’s mileage capacity. According to a Consumer Reports survey, the Toyota Camry can travel more than 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. The survey looked at reliability, road-test results, and other assessments in addition to years of analysis.