Toyota Camry 2006 and earlier

lok888 · August 2003

I would say they are the same or at least similar quality. Many of them (ebay sellers) are actually disturbers for car manufacturers or dealers. Those stimulated wood trim or carbon fiber trim are pre-cut, just peel the tape on the back. Anyway, just be aware what you are buying on these websites.

brozhnik · August 2003

It's come down to that choice, and I don't see a separate discussion on it, so let me ask the Camry board. Price for cars I want are about the same; CR reliability rating about the same; airbags/crash tests about the same. I like the look of both. But here are two questions:
(1) someone said that with a Camry almost any mechanic knows how to deal with it; with a Passat, only specialized mechanics would know. Is this true, and should I consider it?
(2) The Passat 1.8 engine is much less powerful than the Camry V-6 I could get for the same price; it also suffers from "Turbo lag." But here's my real question: will the Passat turbo engine have a shorter expected lifespan than Camry engine, and if so, why? (Some say because of turbo-- is that true?)

Other factors, just responses, not questions:
(3) The Passat seat is more comfortable. But the Camry is quieter and has more ergonomic controls.
(4) Passat handles better, and has both traction and stability control; Camry would have only stability control.

Thanks - any comments and input appreciated.

mbnut1 · August 2003

The Passat is for sure safer. The Passat comes with the full airbag set standard. The Camry without side airbags did not score well on the side impact test. As you've pointed out the passat handles better. This needs to be traded against the Passat probably being a bigger pain to maintain (on the plain in Spain). I also don't like the fact that the Passat 1.8T engine has more vibration than the Camry motors. The Passats 1.8Turbo is durable though it has a timing belt which needs replacing rather than the Camry 4's chain (not sure about the six). The "turbo lag" is not a big deal. I have an A4 and it goes well. To me it's tough call, the current price incentives on the Camry tend to favor it in my opinion. It's a hell of a buy right now. It just depends on your priorities. If I were to select the Passat it would be because of the styling, more sophisticated suspension (way better than the Camry) overall solidity, and safety. If your priorites are purchase price, cost of maintiance and engine refinement then Camry wins. Just my opinion

alpha01 · August 2003

Well...

The Camry, when equipped with the same safety equipment as the Passat, will be at least as safe as that vehicle if not safer (with side curtains, the Passat rates 4 and 4 in the side impact). For those who take notice of the details, the size of the seat mounted side airbags in the Camry have been enlarged this year and now covers from the bottom of the backrest to the top of the chest, and coupled with the Side Curtains, can be expected to afford exceptional protection. (The Camry w/o side airbags is rated at 3 stars driver, 5 rear passenger).

The VSC/Side airbag package on V6 Camrys includes TRAC, Toyota's traction contorl system, so the V6 Camry would have the availability of both traction and stability control.

The Passat handles better, though the margin is considerably more narrow in the Camry SE (which, with the new 3.3L V6, will dust even the Passat V6). But in the Camry SE, you may lose some of the ride plushness.

With respect to CR reliability rankings- I expect that the Camry's initial redesign year quality to be below that of the coming years- this has sometimes happened with Toyota in the past. But the VW has had average reliability that has endured since the inception of this basic structure in 98. Many of the Camrys first year issues were cabin integrity issues, which should have been remedied by now. I'd put money on CR's reliability score going up for the Camry when it is released in the 04 Auto issue.

Really it comes down to preference, and if you want your car to be a dime a dozen. There is definitely something to be said about NOT seeing yourself coming and going around every corner, which IMO, is the Passats biggest draw against the Camcords.

~alpha

brozhnik · August 2003

Thanks for the input! Some followup:
1) I called a bunch of independent mechanics this morning and they all said that VW holds its diagnostic info close to the chest so that only dealers and a few specialists can do more than the basics (oil changes, etc.) Camry, on the other hand, everyone can do. For me, this seems a big plus for Camry.
2) Handling: Alpha, you once mentioned upgrading the tires on the Camry to improve the handling. How much does that narrow the gap?

Also, the dealer I've been talking to says the SE version (specifically) doesn't handle well in the snow (an issue around here) compared to the standard suspension. Is this true? I don't know how he determined that.
And does Toyota's VSC and/or TRAC solve the issue? Or not.
(Re handling it's not the routine I'm worried about-- it's when it snows, rains hard, gets icy--and when a deer or some nutty driver requires quick action on my part. If I get a Camry, will one of these things cause me to regret it?)

3) Biggest difference: I find the Camry seats not that comfortable, and VW seats perfect. Any ideas on aftermarket seats for the Camry?

Thanks again for all the input.
Brozhnik

lok888 · August 2003

I just looked at the brochure for 04 Camry. I really like the Limited Edition with new front grill, new alloy wheels design, optional sunroof and rear spoiler. It draws some attention to those SE buyers who don't like the sport tuned suspension ride. If I am in the market for Camry now, I would prefer the Limited Edition with options over the SE. I don't quite like the SE ride. I also found they put the 210hp V6 engine (borrowed from the Avalon) on all Camry V6 except the SE V6 gets the 230 hp 3.3L engine. I think the LE V6 should also gets 16" alloy wheel instead of 15". Still, ABS is not standard (standard on V6) on all Camrys.

I just learned my Camry SE (4 cylinder) has timing chains. I heard there are some problems for any cars with timing chains except the fact that it is last longer, like at 120K miles.

maxhonda99 · August 2003

brozhnik,

The firmer suspension of the Camry shouldn't affect handling in snow at all over a Camry LE, let's say. Handling degradation in inclement weather would be more due to tire size, tire compound, tire rating etc. But not due to suspension firmness. I would suspect, the Camry SE would be slightly worse in winter driving due to wider tires on the SE V6 over a base V6 camry, and it would also be worse if the tires are not really designed for winter. But again, handling in snow should only degrade slightly.

brozhnik · August 2003

Thanks, Maxhonda.

Question: Anyone else find the Camry seats uncomfortable for long drives? If so, any solutions? Some kind of support you can put on the seat? Or aftermarket replacement seats? Anyone tried any of those, or know anything?
Thanks!

alpha01 · August 2003

As a quick clarification, all V6 Camrys have ABS w/EBD standard as you said, but so do 4 cylinder XLEs. The 210hp V6 was actually the V6 used in 2003 Camrys produced after January of this year, so its not exactly a new addition for 2004. The SE V6 is now rated at 225hp and 240lb. ft., a healthy bump up from the original 192hp/209lb. foot engine the model was introduced with for 02. The 3.3L also gets slightly better highway fuel economy than the 3.0L.

I'm not really sure where you heard there are problems with timing chains, thats news to me. Can you specify?

Broz- Max said it. get GOOD all season tires, you should do alright in the snow. if you want the BEST choice, you might do well to look at the Passat 4Motion V6 models, though that will set you back a lot more than the Camry SE V6 with VSC/Side Airbags and Premium Pkg.

~alpha

lok888 · August 2003

Thanks for the updates. I was under impression the V6 engine on 02 and 03 Camrys are the same 197 hp 3.0L engine. And I just paid close attention on the brochure on this V6 engine (not the SE V6) and learned it is the same engine on Avalon. So, only LE 4 and SE 4 have no standard ABS. For the timing chains, I haven't heard any problem on Camry. But the guy who works on my other cars said some Nissans have some minor problems.

rghcamry · August 2003

I have never joined the discussion group, but have read consistently for the past 2 years. I purchased a Stratosphere Mica Blue SE V6 the week they were released (August 2001) and have a number of observations that I wanted to share.
1. Firstly-Alpha's comments are superb/helpful
2. Rattles have been a noted problem-more so than my 1993 Camry LE! My mechanic was able to tighten up the dash and window frames and that helped (not sure exactly what he did but covered under warranty).
3. At the time of purchase I had them take off the summer tires and put on Michelins that were used on the XLEs. I also use Blizzaks in the winter (Rochester NY got 150 inches of snow this year!) With the Blizzaks and TRAC/VSC it was flawless and I didn't want an SUV.
4. There was a transmission issue with irregular shifting (around 40-50 mph). I noticed this the first day I drove it on the highway. This took some sorting out but apparently the computer software that senses the shift point needed to be revised/replaced. There was a TSB for this I was told. They removed the original program and loaded a new program and it has been perfect. I was surprised by the whole process, but it completely corrected what I considered a subtle but annoying problem.
5. SE driver airbags were recalled and replaced.
6. There is sometimes a "thump" when cold and shifting from reverse to drive-much written about it here, but it seems less over time.
7. In my opinion, the SE drive feels considerable better than the LE and XLE in terms of road feel and handling. If the road is bumpy-you do feel it more but overall it is a nice sporty feel despite the Camry reputation.
8. Price. When new there was essentially no discounting and I paid more than $28,000 with virtually all options. Subsequently the sunroof became standard (and the price therefore dropped ~ $900), the engine became more powerful (twice now), and discounts began. I could probably get the same car (with more power) for $25,000 now.
9. Overall, the car has been extremely reliable, fun to drive, good in the snow, eye-catching (particular this color when washed), and I hope to keep for years as I did with my 93 LE.

Thanks again Alpha and other contributers-
rghcamry

dchopp · August 2003

It is necessary to put snow tires all the way around vs just the front? My Dealer recomended that I should go with all four to help maintain driving stability. Riding with disimilar tires can cause instability. Any thought on that?

amazon · August 2003

THe dealer is correct. Driving with disimilar tires front/rear will negatively impact the stability, and may be hazardous. It's even illegal in some areas.

coolguyky7 · August 2003

Nice to hear from you! The Stratosphere Mica on the SE is spectacular.

edmund2460 · August 2003

I have had a couple of instances of Hydrogen sulfide smell, for a very brief time. The last time occurred on starting up the car, the fuel misture apparently started off rich becaus I could smell gas. This is a V6 03 model with 5K miles on it. Again these were isolated instances. Anyone have any comments?

edmund2460 · August 2003

I had the impression that VW designed the Passat to drive more like an 'American' car with a quiet and plush ride. So I don't understand why people automatically think it 'handles' better than a Camry. IMHO this bit about 'handling' seems to be overstressed by people who really aren't going to drive a car anywhere near its limits. The Camry has a definite edge in space and comfort over the Passat and with the air bag package and VSC would be just as safe. And yes I wish I were buying mine now with the lower prices...

rhdroc · August 2003

Anyone know the difference between the premium JBL system offered and the '03 Camry LE V-6 and the standard system -- excluding the cd changer option?? Power?? Sound?? Speakers?? Appearance??

Thanks ---<Rick

phikhue · August 2003

I am looking to purchase a '03 Camry LE V6. How much off the sticker price should I be looking for? Anyone with new purchase? I want around 4K off the sticker price. Is that a reasonable amount? Thanks.

canoe2 · August 2003

I just checked the web site and there were few TSBs for 2003.
There is one TSB about "Console Lid Latch Availability". Do know what is about ?

I have heard a lot people (included myself) complained about "surging" for V6 engine which was described in TSB number EG008-03.

buzzhd · August 2003

Just bought 03 Camry LE V6 engine model: 1MZ-FE, however I do have a question as to whether to pump 87 or 91 gas. From the car manual it says 87 or higher. For improved vehicle performance, the 91 or higher is recommended. So what exactly does the improved vehicle performance mean? Is it good gas mileage, quick start etc? Will 87 damage the fuel system? Will 91 or higher do any good in the long run? Thanks!

pat · August 2003

Be sure to check out our Toyota Camry: Prices Paid & Buying Experience discussion. You'll find lots of helpful messages there.

Good luck!

buzzhd · August 2003

Just bought 03 Camry LE V6 engine model: 1MZ-FE, however I do have a question as to whether to pump 87 or 91 gas. From the car manual it says 87 or higher. For improved vehicle performance, the 91 or higher is recommended. So what exactly does the improved vehicle performance mean? Is it good gas mileage, quick start etc? Will 87 damage the fuel system? Will 91 or higher do any good in the long run? Thanks!

phikhue · August 2003

Thanks for the link. Somehow I missed that.

dekester · August 2003

After two months of research, pricing and comparison shopping, we had eliminated the Altima, Accord (too ugly IMHO), Mazda 6 (too small inside) and the domestics (questionable quality, resale value, and big discounts just to get you in the door meaning they were overpriced to begin with), someone mentioned the Saturn to the wife and she's all hopped up on one.

Doesn't my time and work count for anything???

Anyway, we went to look at the Saturn line the other night. Decided on the L300/LW300 (V6 model). Dealer would not attempt to find us a 2003 model (even with the $3000 rebate) but would gladly get us an '04!

What kills the Saturn is the "no haggle" pricing! According to Edmunds.com, I should be able to get a loased Camry XLE-V6 for around $24500. A loaded L300 is $25500 and the wagon about $1100 more. Why would I NOT get the Toyota with the quality, resale value, etc, etc over the Saturn?

Just to play devil's advocate, has anyone else compared these two vehicles? What did you like/dislike about each? We'll be test driving both cars this weekend and will most likely be buying within two weeks - and we'll miss out on the rebates, unless they're extended past 9/2.

Thanks.

Deke

toledo19 · August 2003

I too looked at the Saturn and it stopped there. The interior is butt ugly. Go grab that Camry! But, I'm sure that rebate will continue after 9/02! The inventory is still up there!

fredvh · August 2003

If you can find a copy of the January'03 issue of the "Consumer Reports" magazine where they tested the Saturn L200 and they rated it much lower than the Camry. Here is a quote about the L200: "But the interior is noisy, the ride unsettled, the seats uncomfortable, and the interior trim flimsy. Reliability has been below average."

badgerfan · August 2003

I don't want to start a fight here, nothing against Camry, but if you are considering a Saturn L300, you should also consider one of the better domestic brand car for less money by checking out a Ford Taurus-try one with the Duratec DOHC engine. You can get a loaded SES or SEL for $19K or even a bit less. Note reliability of the current Taurus per CR is approaching that of Camry as well.

Ive been very happy with my 2000 SES, nearly 3 years old next month.

dekester · August 2003

Fords are out of the question.....
Owned a few and never wanted another one, not even the Crown Vic LX Sport that is about as close to a Polica Package as you can get....

Domestics don't appeal to me - Chrysler products are either too small or too strangely designed.

Fords have been unreliable to me in the past.

Pontiac, Buick, Chevrolet have nothing that interests us. After the BS with our Olds Intrigue and the lack of assistance from GM, I'm just turned off.

The wife liked the Saturn because of the wagon availability, and the "low" price. I see no real bargain, unfortunately, since you can't haggle the price a dime.

I'm glad to see that the Toyota V6 doesn't require premium fuel - only for peak performance - and that suits me because she'll be driving the car a few miles a day to and from work, and on the weekends. With gas prices in New York this week (regular ranges from $1.87 - $2.05), I appreciate the flexibility.

Saturn's plastic body panels no longer include the rear quarters - only front fenders and doors now - and many dings happen on the rear fenders.

If I had my 'druthers, I'd build her a 72 Chevy Nova with a modern V8 with EFI, 4-speed auto and all the safety amenities (ABS, ect)!

Just looking for the ammunition to push us solidly towards the Camry. Well, I'm convinced, but SHE isn't!

Deke

badgerfan · August 2003

I certainly agree with you on the Saturn. I have never had an interest in their no haggle pricing as I view them as overpriced and have too many shortcomings compared to the competition.

I can understand if you have had Ford reliability problems in the past they may be off your list. GM is off my list for the same reason, but I have had good experience with both the Tauri I have owned. Good luck with whatever you choose.

buzzhd · August 2003

never thinking about getting Saturn, Ford Taurus simply because of the reliability problems. Was thinking of getting Altima, Accord and Camry. I do like the styling of Altima and Accord, but Camry. Somebody said Camry is for old ppl... I tested Accord EX in NJ dealer, too much noise from this 4 cyl, so tested V6, got a lot of power, but can't get used to the steering, light!Besides it's expensive, asking price is $23,000. Altima is little bit expensive if choosing the same feature as Accord EX, and interior is "cheap". So no Altima! Friend of mine suggested me to get Camry as he was driving 92 XLE V6 for the past 6 yrs and gave it to his wife last year. In return he got another 03 LE V6... Anyway I was thinking to get V6 with less price, so Camry was on my list. One dealer in NY offerred me 21265 with Moonroof, JBL Prem Combo and Carpet/Mat option. At first I thought it was expensive if using Edmunds.com's price, but after visiting different dealers I decided to get this LE V6 with 20265 after $1000.00 and 0% for three years. Of course I had to pay 395 banking fee (what the hell?). This finance guy tried to rip me off with 2.99% and 600 banking fee, for which I definitely rejected and even threatened to abort the deal if no good finance deal was provided.
I am glad I choose Camry LE V6, powerful 210hp, quite (it's not like my 92 Maxima) yeah extremely quite, reliable. My wife said I had to drive this car for another 10 years before I can get next luxury sedan. So reliability is my top concern. What's yours?

dekester · August 2003

Reliability and retained value are important. I see neither in the Saturn. My wife bought a Tercel new in 1991 and we just got rid of it last month with 72K on the odo and only because small, expensive things were starting to go and we didn't have the money to get them fixed one at a time - with full labor costs for each visit, too.

For the 12 years we had it, it never failed to start, never left us stranded, original battery was replaced after 9 years, one set of brakes, replaced front struts after 10 years, two sets of tires and timing belt at 62K per manual. That's it. Except for the center brake light, ALL bulbs were what it was delivered with. I wouldn't expect the same from a domestic "entry level" model.....

Now we have the opportunity to upgrade, but we're still shopping price. We liked the Hyundai XG350L - comparable to the Avalon/LS300 but priced like the Camry - until we looked at resale value....there was none!

Toyota's reputation is what's swaying me, especially after the excellent service that little Tercel gave us! And I'm a V8 rear wheel drive kinda guy, too!

I think I've got the wife re-convinced to get the Camry because of the price. They just don't seem to understand about resale value or such....

Deke

alpha01 · August 2003

I'm a bit confused- the steering on the Accord was too light, but you find the Camry's firmer? My opinion is exactly opposite. Interesting.

~alpha

buzzhd · August 2003

Well, from what I tested Accord I came to that conclusion, yes it's light! Of course different ppl thinks and feels differently. That's why I bought Camry. There are more to just the steering, styling is also a big issue. Smaller trunk 14 vs. 17 in Camry.

rutger3 · August 2003

Everyone seems to have forgotten one minor item here in explaining the benefits of the camry over the saturn. His wife may like the saturn more, although it sounds like she is coming around more to the camry which is good. The resale is a no brainer, the camry will hold much more of its value and in the end will cost you less than the saturn. Reliability favors the camry.If you want a wagon then the camry is not an option(i think toyota would be wise to make one). How about the Subaru Legacy wagon, or a small SUV. The camry is an excellent car; i have a 99 with 130,000 miles and going strong. Be sure the front seats are to your liking as this seems to be an issue with some people. Also, the reliability has come down a bit, but probably going to improve. There seems to be a lot of them in stock so bargain hard. Good luck.

dekester · August 2003

Subaru was never considered for some reason. Too many pepole we know that have them complain about the price of parts, especially after the warranty expires. Service at the local dealer is questionable and often they don't get to the car on the day you're scheduled.

Talked the wife out of a SUV as we really don't need one - she liked the Kia Sorento, Jeep Liberty and Hyundai Santa Fe. Her main worry is driving in the snow. I have traction control in my Olds Intrigue and didn't get stuck in all the white stuff we had last winter, so she's OK with a car with TC.

Time is running out on getting an '03 model and prices on the '04 are higher, according to Edmunds. An '04 XLE-V6 with VSC and Premium Plus is over $26K. Add TTT and it's around $28K. Rebate and discounting on an '03 brings that total down around $25K, but dealers aren't aggressively going out and locating "last year's" models. Then again, maybe it's just my local dealer (Manfredi Toyoya, Staten Island).... Hate to have to go to Brooklyn or New Jersey - Olds was bought in Jersey and they wouldn't send their tag guy to New York to take care of the paperwork for us.

It all boils down now to when the settlement payment is received. We were hoping it was going to be this week so we could take care of the whole business this weekend - test drive, choose, pick out the one we want and write the check. Now it may not be until next week or the week after.

I thank everyone for their opinions, observations and comments. Believe it or not, I only received TWO replies on the Saturn L board, of course both telling me to get the Saturn, but offering no comparisons, unlike here.

Deke

lok888 · August 2003

I found the steering wheel on Honda Accord is right for me. It is speed sensitive which is easy for parking or make turns and tight at highway speed. The steering wheel on my 03 Camry SE is not quite as good as the Accord. I feel more movement at highway speed. I have to hold on the steering wheel more often.

alpha01 · August 2003

I would recommend holding on to the steering wheel in any car you drive.

~alpha

lok888 · August 2003

It's hard to do it these days for most drivers. Anyway, my point is I feel the steering wheel on Camry is kind of loose at highway speed.

buzzhd · August 2003

how fast can I go during the Break-in period? Is it 55mph or 65mph. The manual doesn't say anything except no hard braking, no single speed for a long time etc.

How do you understand the "improved performance" if using 91 or higher octane gas? Thanks!

alpha01 · August 2003

Vary the engine speed (Personally, I would refrain from anything above 90% redline, which if you have the 4 is about 5500 RPM). No hard braking. Thats it, excatly what the manual says. The days of early first oil changes and speed limitations for the first xxxx miles are over, IMHO.

How I understand the fuel thing in relation to Camrys-If you purchased a 4 cylinder Camry, you are fine on regular fuel, and no performance increases are expected by using higher octane. If you purchased a V6, you are fine on regular fuel, but acceleration may be more responsive and/or fuel consumption better with higher grade octane.

~alpha

5spd · August 2003

Can someone share the real life gas mileage for the latest camries ? I am talking about a four cylinder model with automatic transmission. I am comparing it to a similar Accord. Thanks.

slov98 · August 2003

I accelerated slowly the first 1000 miles, gentle driving, changed the oil at 1000 miles..I think you have the v6 also, it accelerates nicely now(almost 6000 miles), gas is mid grade 89 since the start

alpha01 · August 2003

Our 02 LE 4 cly auto in a 65/35 mix of stop&go and highway averages about 27 MPG, but my dad and I tend to be a bit judicious in our use of the throttle.

slov- I disagree with you. But hey, thats what these boards are for. I remember being told by someone in the maintenence boards that automakers use a specially formulated break in oil out of factory, and that it should not be changed earlier than indicated.

We did oil changes/maintenance every 5k for the first 30K miles, and now go every 3750.

~alpha

onlyimports · August 2003

I think men should have the final word in Car purchase unless the lady is more mechanically inclined. Anyway, do a test of both cars and I'll be surprised if you find the Saturn comparable to the Camry. I owned 03 Camry SE V6 and I find the only car that is more fun to drive in this price catagory is the Accord V6. Anyway let us know what you choose.

andrelaplume · August 2003

I get 19 pure city, As high as 33 pure highway and I estimate about 24 with a mix of 70% city and 30% highway. I have an auto 4cyl LE w/12K miles.

alpha01 · August 2003

Should have read: 35/65 stop&go/highway, sorry I reversed the info.

~alpha

96accord · August 2003

I live in Nebraska and I am planning to buy a Camry from Los Angeles due to unavaliability of my choice from the local dealers in Ne. I wanted to enquire about the procedure to register if I buy from California. Do I have to pay Ca sales tax and pay registration in Nebraska. Or do I have to drive it to Nebraska and pay the applicable sales tax there along with the registration. I will have to drive it through Neveda, Utah and Wyoming before getting to Nebraska. Will I have to stop at the Ports of entry at each state and inform them i am driving unregistered from California to Nebraska. I spoke to a dealer in LA and he mentioned that I would be liable for california sales tax as the sale was made here unless they ship it out to a certain address where I take delivery but in that case if it were neveda i would be liable to pay sales tax there. They would not register the vehicle in Ca and they would issue me a one way permit to drive out of the state back to Nebraska. Am I liable for Nebraska sales tax at the time of registration there after paying Ca sales tax and will the local dealer there honor any warranty problems there. Does anyone know how this works because I do believe people do buy from other states all the time but how does one manage the the sales tax and registration.

Thanks in Advance
Pat

oemvalue · August 2003

For all of you who are looking to upgrade your current stock unit and to all of you who are seeking an answer on how to do so, please read this message.
If your current unit doesn't have JBL on the front, that means you current unit has an amplifier built in and you'll need to acquire an external amplifier if you'd like to upgrade to JBL premium sound. They do not make Toyota in dash CD changers with built in amplifier, they are all internal.
When you look for a Toyota amplifier, it doesn't matter if it is JBL or basic stock, as long as the amplifier or the amplifier's jumper harness has a 20-pin connector on the end you're in business.
Anymore questions please ask me I'd love to put more of my installation experience I acquired over the years to use.

cliffy1 · August 2003

Believe it or not, most states don't have a sales tax on cars. They have a "title tax" which is normally, the same rate as the sales tax. The title tax is only charged by the state when the car is titled. For example, if a customer bought a car in VA and took it to North Dakota, that customer would not pay any tax to the dealership. The customer would pay the title tax for ND. The term sales tax is just used an an expedience in many cases.

CA may be different, but that is how it works in most places.

bronzemaxell · August 2003

it is very hard to get away from uncle sam,
you must paid tax to state where the vehicle is registered, doesn't matter where you buy it in U.S.
on the other hand, "USE TAX", where if you bought goods from another state, you suppose to report the tax, but not many people does it, and got away with it,
i think there might be one exception, the tiny state DE do not have sales tax.

Toyota Camry 2006 and earlier

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