Toyota Solara

pbc

Thanks. Where were you before I took it in?!

Any idea what the noise I'm experiencing now (and described above) could be? Literally sounds like every time the pads hit one portion of the wheel they are hitting something, I only hear it at low speeds and sounds like only once per wheel turn.

bwiebe

I've had a similar metal on metal squeeling sound when applying my brakes. Only seems to happen the first few times I apply the brakes when the weather is cold or damp. The dealership told me it was normal for the type of brakes that I have. Something about the hard compound used in the brake pads to prolong the life of the brakes. Anyone know if I got a line or is this ligit.

8u6hfd

Harder brake pads compounds will squeak and squeal much more. Whether the dealership is telling the truth about the Solara having such pads, you'll have to wait and find out (if it lasts more than 20,000 miles)

pbc

Actually, it's not a squeeling sound at all. It's sounds more like something is hitting the brake pad each time the wheel turns. Almost like a broken spring or something.

I've also had the squealing sound in the past, usually in the snow or rain. Apparently that's normal too. Although the only other cars I've had that did it, did it was because the brakes were just about worn.

8u6hfd

In that case, there may be a chance it's the caliper itself. Though I have to admit, replacing the caliper is pretty expensive. Doing a manual rebuild (plus the cost of the kit) is much cheaper.

pbc

I would imagine the Caliper (I would hope!) is covered under the 3 year warranty? I mean, I can understand that brake pads may not be covered (although you would think they could warranty a specified # of km on them) but the Caliper?

8u6hfd

I have had my rear caliper replaced on my 1988 Camry V6, last year, because it was stuck (constant pad to rotor contact). It cost me around $700 of parts and labor to do so.

I would get the dealership or a competent mechanic (or brake shop) to throughly go over the brakes, including removing the pads, then examine the pads and rotors for any irregular wear. You may have to initially take the costs. If there is a problem, if could be easily addressed. Having the service manager say something without inspecting the car is a waste of time.

I forgot to ask, is the noise coming from the front or rear?

2k1trd

Yeah i get the same noise in my solara also when backing and stopping (pads shifting one way)and then when i brake after that going forwards (pads shifting back)...toyota calls this normal.I wouldn't be concerned about this unless it's something else than what i described.

qhuy00

Hello all, I just purchased a used 00' Solara Sle coupe at 39K miles with all the goodies for 16.6 out the door. Perhaps this is a good price yes? Anyhow, I read in one of the specs that the Sle has a JBL system with 8 speakers, so far I can only count 6 (2 front, 2 back, and 2 tweeters), where's the other 2 supposed speakers? Any response would be appreciated.

tony2putt

The back speakers are coaxial. Tweeter's are built in the speakers. Just put in some good music and go for a nice drive. I like the sound system much better than any of the Bose systems I have heard. Tony

qhuy00

Hmm.. it seems like there are some hidden subwoofers in the back trunk somewhere, I don't know if just speakers can produce such a decent amount of bass. Perhaps i've been listening to some weak speakers in my old car. Anyhow, this sound system of the car sounds great, and people were not kidding when they say this car drove smooth like a Lexus, thilled about the car thus far.

tony2putt

I agree the Bass is outstanding. In fact my wife drives a MDX with touring package. Sub woofer included. She does not get the great bass response of my Solara. I have question about the leather seats. Which parts are real leather and which are vinyl. I want properly protect the seats. I'm having a tough time with this, any help would be greatly appreciated. T

8u6hfd

Backs and sides should be vinyl. Seat faces are leather. The door panels I think are vinyl also (it might be leather)

webguyster

On my latest trip to the dealer, I did not see any Solara's on the lot. Have not seen any on any other lots? Whats up??? Is this a local thing?

STRUTS>>> The person who had the strut prob at 39k, what exactly was wrong?

automophile

tony2putt - hu6hfd is correct - just the seating surfaces are real leather. Get some Lexol, and rub it in with your hands twice a year, and buff off. Your leather will thank you. Between Lexol treatments, use Lemon Pledge on the leather, vinyl, plastic, wood and chrome in your car. It really works great - you must try it.

And - if you want some really great bass without adding a sub, try replacing the rear shelf speakers with some better ones - Cerwin-Vega if you're a bass nut.

gregmartinez

My friend discovered his recently puchased 2001 SLE Convertible is a Canadian Toyota.The car was used with 8K miles and no detectable paint or body work.The car was sold as a "certified pre-owned" from a Toyota dealer and also has an extended warranty. Are there any differences or concerns he should have?

tony2putt

I had the Strut supports replaced on my Solara. Funny you bring it up. My car was in the shop overnight. They did not complete the task on the first day. I believe they are the top supports for the struts. The dealer was very reluctant to fix it. But I was very persistent. Tony

canc

First, all Solaras are made in Canada, so there are no manufacturing differences.

If the car was destined to be sold in Canada, we have different laws, notably the DRLs being mandatory, as well as the speed dial (showing KM/h on top of the MPH). As far as I know, we have the same emissions standards as the US (except California). In any case, if the car was sold in Canada, and later came across the border for some reason, it should've had the modifications to become legal in the US (the free trade agreement between the two countries requires it) to be resold. If not, then be very suspicious.

pbc

From what I've read, it seems that American owners of the Camry seem to get much better mileage than Canadian owners. So they must be doing something different! But then, I'm sure differences in weather have a lot to do with it as well.

canc

The weather probably is a significant factor. Also, have you noticed that the US gov't.'s gas mileage estimates are usually closer to reality than ours?

tony2putt

Here is the part number for the upper strut support - 48609-06081. They replaced both sides, it really tightened the car up. I'm very glad I pushed the issue. I should have done the same with the rocking driver's seat.

canc

Does anyone know who makes the factory speakers for Toyota? Is it Denso? I know the SLE has JBL speakers, but who makes them for the SE or SE V6?In any case, the ones in the Solara are extremely good.

pbc

Took the car to my father the other day (retired truck mechanic). Turns out it was a rusted spring in the rear wheel that had seized. Which I found interesting since I just had the brakes cleaned and machined since Toyota kept claiming that there was a lot of rust buildup that was causing the pads to wear more quickly and unevenly (and was the reason for the brake light coming on).

He took out some anti-rust/seize spray, gave it a good one, and voila, no more noise.

I'm almost tempted to still take it into the Service department to see what they say. They'd probably recommend new calipers and pads for the entire car, an engine rehaul, and a paint job for good measure!

Speakers - I found my passenger door tweeter has already blown, and I never "blast" the stereo by any means. Not sure how much that will be to replace. Tried replacing it under warranty at the dealer, according to them the popping sound is normal and I should have the treble turned down to -3 (which by the way, makes everything sound like crap and I still get the occasional pop - which of course is normal!) I also find that the 8 speaker set up in the Jetta sounds much nicer than the Solara's, but the Solara was still a decent sounding system for a stock radio (before the tweeter going that is!).

Sorry, just have had some extremely bad luck with Toyota service which has made me quite bitter about them. I need to find another dealer in the area, maybe they'll be better.

Still love the car, just hate the dealer!

canc

"according to them the popping sound is normal and I should have the treble turned down to -3"

WHAT?!?! First, tweeters aren't supposed to pop like this. I have my bass set to 1 and treble to 5. It truly sounds like you don't have a good service department. Sorry to hear about your bad service experience. Definitely go out there and try another one.

About your brakes, my Mom's Corolla was "squeaking" everytime she applied the brakes, and the service told her it was because of the rust, and her brakes needed to be cleaned. Surely she had them cleaned and the squeaking was gone. It just sounds like your dealer is out for a quick fix for your problems.

2k1trd

I run my JBL with the bass at +3 treble at +5 and mid at 0 and it rocks!....2 yrs now with no probs and it's gets cranked very often too.Your service dept sucks...try another,they should warranty your tweeter.

radracer

it doesn't have 8 speakers. the rear speakers are 2-way speakers. disappointing, huh?

mustangdrew

This is probably a loony comparison, but I want a good looking coupe! I want decent speed, smooth comfortable ride, and good handling. My current 99 V6 Mustang has adequate speed and good handling with the best looks of the three. It has been reliable too! But will going to the V6 Solara or Accord compromise the "twisties" handling and fun factor too much in the name of near luxury? I know I'll to drive them to decide, but I just want other's insights. Maybe I'll wait for the next generation of each to come out.

tony2putt

I own a Solara. My best friend has a 2000 GT Stang. We ride in mine to the golf course, because of the large trunk. I would say the Honda handles better than my Solara. But both have a large trunk with a useable back seat. I also like the looks of mine better. Enjoy shopping. Tony

jlowery

I would like a gold Solara SLE V6 fully loaded. However, the three dealers here seem to have very few Solaras period. Wonder how long I will have to wait before they have one??

ctornado

I was in the market for a blue SE V6 Solara. Most dealers in the area had rain forest green and red. Dave Thorne, salesman at Rice Toyota in Greensboro, NC, was very helpful. We found the car I was looking for and it is being shipped to dealer. So the Solara you want may not be on your neighborhood lot, but they are out there some where.

pbc

Sorry ... meant that the dealer suggested to turn the Bass down to -2, not the treble.

Unfortunately this is the dealer that is closest by far to my house. But given that I should only be taking in the car every 3-4 months, I guess the extra 10-15 min drive is worth it if I can find a better dealer!

canc

I know this probably has been dealt with and beaten to the ground already, but do you know anyone in our winter climate that has complained about the supposed "engine sludge" problem some people have had with their V6 or 4-cylinder in the Solara? Do you change your oil at every 8000 kms.? If so, is it Toyota oil?

2k1trd

Just change the oil/filter every 3k miles and sludge will never be a problem.You would have to seriously neglect changing your oil for that to happen.

webguyster

Any suggestions on when to spring for the expensive throttle cleaning. I am at 32,000 miles, and the Service guy says I should have done it at 30,000. What do you guys/gals think???

ramblinon

Purchased a 99 SLE V6 in 10-98 that was also built in 10-98. Paid sticker. Color is a light golden mist (don't know name). The wife drives it mainly and she has a heavy foot. I have very very few paint chips on the front of the car. It has never been waxed and taken through an auto car wash once a week. It looks very nice but reading of the polymer treatments in here I will put a coat or two on. Also, the SLE has 38,600 miles on the original Bridgestones and I'm getting ready to put Dunlop SP Sport A2's on it. There has been no problems with this car it is just simply a pleasure to own and drive. The JLB sound is excellent and no problems with the disc player or tape player. I tend to keep a car for awhile having traded an Acura Legend LS 2DR with 169,000 miles on it for the Solara (wife had to have...period). I also have a 2001 Isuzu Trooper Limited and plan on putting many many miles on it. I have really enjoyed and have learned from read the post. THANKS

2k1trd

Expensive??? just get some throttle body cleaner and do it yourself.Just pull the boot off the throttle body and spray some cleaner on a rag and wipe out the black crud around the butterfly.You can also sray it inside the throttle body after you wipe it while it's running to get the rest out.(don't go to crazy)

solara11

When you say tightened it up, was your Solara drivi sloppy, with road wander and making horiffic noise going over snall bumps?

tony2putt

It was not a loud noise, but sounded like the tire was loose. Not on every bump either. The car is so quiet it was easy to tell something was different. It started around 25k, the dealer looked at it around 32K. Then by 36k it was really noticeable. I talked with the dealer, left the car overnight. They found the problem, then ordered the parts. The handling had slowly gotten worse so I didn't notice. But now the car tracks straight, the steering feels tight. It really made a difference. T

canc

Is anyone here using synthetic oil in their Solara?

pbc

Canc,

I believe the reccomended oil change in the service manual was 6,000 km, not sure where you get 8k unless it has changed since the '99 model. I actually try to have it changed every 5,000 km using Toyota's oil (which I think is a synthetic blend?). Haven't had any problems related to engine sludge? My car is left out at night as well so is fully exposed to Canada's lovely winters (which has actually been extremely mild this year - Toronto anyway).

canc

Oddly enough, Toyota recommends 6000 kms. oil changes for 1999's, and 8000 kms. for 2000. I also thought that since we only have to change the oil every 6 or 8,000 kms., it would have to be a synthetic blend. I called my dealership and it's actually just regular oil. The engine design doesn't require oil changes before then, I guess. I thought that by switching over to synthetic, it would be beneficial on all aspects (except the added price). Toyota does sell a synthetic oil, but instead of $26.95 for an oil change, it's $50 for synthetic.

webguyster

Before replacing the struts, did the car exibt a "chirping" noise over small bumps, and just not feel stable or straight on the road, although wheel alignment was within specs???

webguyster

You guys should not overlook your 3000 mile changes. Follow Toyotas recomendation of 7,000 mile oil changes, or whatever the kilometers are, and your out of luck. If anyone has followed some of the chats, and forums, the Toyota sludge problem, is a BIG one. On Feb 8th Toyota finally agreed (settled) to fix some of the cars, that had sludge problems, without admitting fault. Keep that in mind, as Toyota doesn't bend over backwards, and jump through hoops to give you a NEW $7000.00 engine, and if your lucky, you might spend a few grand to rebuild yours, or get a rebuilt engine. CHANGE THAT LUBE!!!

webguyster

Anyone remember, without reading through all the postings, what is the "widest" tire the 16 inch alloy rims will safely accept?

pbc

Weird that I hadn't heard about it until now. Mind you, I've always changed oil every 5k instead of the recommened 6k and have never had a problem. 8k seems way too long given that the engine in the car has not changed from the 1999 one, although I understand some manufacturers are recommending 15k and 20k oil changes (all in km, not miles) which seems way too risky to me. I'd rather pay the CDN$30 4 times a year than risk an unhealthy engine later on since I plan on keeping the car for at least 5 years.

One other problem I've been experiencing (the noise in my brake is back), is a "burnt" smell whenever I drive at relatively high speeds (over 110km/hour, and sometimes even at 80-100km/hour). Seems to come from the vents. Gauranteed to smell if I hit the pedal to quickly accelerate to such high speeds, but sometimes even when I just gradually increase the speed to over 100km/hour (60 mph). Smells for a minute or two, then goes away (or maybe I just get used to it and can't smell it after a few minutes!!). Anyone else experience this??

pbc

... the smell is kind of like the smell of burning oil. Service department, surprisingly (note the sarcasm) indicated that they coudln't reproduce the smell, but that it was normal for unusual smells to occasionally occur. Funny, the only time something I complain about to them is not unusual is when it is not covered under warranty and I have to pay!!

dennita

Even though I've never actually seen one, I always wanted a black on black Solara SLE - but when the car I pre-ordered came in, it had the tan top (figures). Living in Massachusetts, I swore I would never buy a tan top - because I believe it would be hell to clean (especially in the winter).

Anyone out there have any advice on the tan top? which do you find easier to clean, black or tan top? any cleaning products out there that you have had success with???

anyone have any pictures of a black on black conv. with the TOP UP??? I've searched the net...can't find any.

fastdriver

What's this all about? Just found it in the Jeep Grand Cherokee topic- of ALL places!! LOL....

http://www.autonews.com/article.cms?articleId=38302

Sounds like it's time to switch to synthetic oil. I cannot believe that Toyota customer service is WORSE than Chrysler! THAT blows my mind!

fastdriver

fastdriver

cliffy1-

ANY truth to ANY of this? Are you still out there?

fastdriver

automophile

pbc - If the car system is properly designed, there should be no way that you can blow out a speaker with the stock amp. The speakers should be able to take the full output of the amp, regardless of where your tone controls are set.

If you have a bad amp that is clipping (popping?) THIS will blow out a tweeter. When an amp clips (reaches it's power limit) the output becomes a square wave, which is all high frequencies, and it blows the tweeter with the power overload. It could also just be a bad tweeter.

SO - it seems that your amp may be clipping. Unless you play it a max volume, I don't see this happening with a good amp. Insist that they let their audio guy look at it. My dealer has an outside stereo shop handle all the audio issues.

Good Luck.