Toyota Camry 2006 and earlier

stnick · February 2003

Those guys sound just like polititions, gloss over all mistakes, and never accept blame

andrelaplume · February 2003

I do not think this forum is all encompassing. My Camry has proven to have excellent accelartation and gas milage (4cyl), a decent ride and roomy enough for my wife and two kids in the back seat. If there really was a change in the 2003 (rattle related)I for the life of me can not see why the do not inform the dealers how to fix the 2002s. Perhaps a TSB is considered a failure in their world. Again, I called Toyota and they could not elaborate. But many have complained as evidenced by several mags. Personally I pray they can get the word on the fix out and then I will have the Lexus-like Camry that some 2002/2003 owners enjoy!

xbbuster · February 2003

I have an '02 LE V6 built 7/02. It has no rattles. What it does have is a transmission that "clunks" when shifting from reverse to drive in the morning. Anyone want to trade?

austinman7 · February 2003

My '03 XLE v-6 has about 1,800 miles on it. It has the rattles in both sides, roughly from the door pillar area, that have been noted by others on this thread. The ones from the right (passenger side) are more noticable to me. They became apparent after about a week of ownership. My car was built in late November 2002, at the Georgetown, Ky., plant.

My car also has three other problems that have been covered here. In order of importance to me, they are: the occasional sulphur smell in the cabin, the clunk going into drive, and the faint thunk from the rear when starting off.

I'll be bringing three of these matters to my dealer's attention when I go for my first service at about 3,000 miles, and will post again to relate what happens. The thunk from the rear may be the gasoline in the tank shifing -- I've noticed it happens with a full tank, but goes away after you've used a few gallons, so I'm probably not going to bring that up.

I'm enjoying the car in spite of these issues, but do hope to have them corrected by the dealer. I especially like the acceleration of the v-6 and just the overall feel of the drivetrain -- strong and responsive. I also like the roominess, in front and back. A very nice car overall, but the rattles need to go.

andrelaplume · February 2003

The only rattle my dealer had an official repair for was a thunk from the trunk! I think he said they had a TSB on this so I am confident this one will be resolved for you. If they have a solution for the door pillar issue please post in the rattles forum. I hear this in mine but I just tell myself it is the stroller or something else seating itself as I pull out...at least it is not continually buzzing in my ear.

mackabee · February 2003

Where and when was this "press release" issued regarding the so called "rattles"? I've yet to see one. I've also discussed it with our service techs and they have told me they've seen one "once in a blue moon" but there has not been a TSB issued.
: )
Mackabee

mackabee · February 2003

In re: to last post; service techs have seen a Camry with a squeak or a rattle "once in a blue moon" not a TSB. Just clarifying my last post.
: )
Mackabee

rosie19 · February 2003

anyone having bad rattles in the passenger side of dash ,sounds like in back of glove box, go to dealer and tell him, or her there is a tsb that tells them to re toruge sp? , tighten, the strut bolts. I had been to two dealers in Houston, and they had not heard of fix, drove to my dealer in little town of Brenham,tx and wrench said ," oh yea we had one yesterday with same rattles, give 5 minutes and it'll be fixed " He did and it's unbleaveable. No rattles!!!

andrelaplume · February 2003

First let me say my dealer is not accustom to rattle issues either however they are getting similar ones (door pillar and dash) with some frequency. Their attitude has been that Toyota will avail a solution at some point and they'd prefer not to take the car apart and reassemble it...mine too.

I actally got this press release off the Edmunds site in November, I printed it out for reference when I spoke with Toyota.

I just cut pasted the link and release here:

http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/- www/story/11-08-2002/0001837619&EDATE=

TORRANCE, Calif., Nov. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- This statement is being issued by
Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.:

In survey results publicized by Consumer Reports, the 2002 Toyota Camry was rated average due to complaints about minor issues with some aspects of the car's interior and exterior trim.
Toyota responded to customer reports of uncharacteristic squeaks, rattles and loose trim in early production of the redesigned 2002 Camry. Internal surveys and independent reports confirm Toyota's confidence that the issues have since been resolved and that Camry initial quality is back to its normal high levels. Functional reliability is not an issue. In fact, Camry scored
well above average in all major operational categories of Consumer Reports' survey including engine, transmission, brake and electrical systems, etc.
Camry remains a recommended model and Toyota and Lexus models continue to be at or near the top of their segments as rated by Consumer Reports and many other independent quality, reliability and customer satisfaction surveys.

SOURCE Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Now between you and me this is all becoming old. The car has been out a full year and I have seen no solution to the door pillar problem. If there was one you'd think we'd of heard of it in the forum. If you know of anything or the techs you know do then please post it and you will be our hero!!!!

bartalk2 · February 2003

At Toyota's exhibit at the Chicago Auto Show, they have a V6Camry with the new engine and a 5-speed auto transmission. Actually it's the Avalon engine now moved into the Camry. Price has apparently been reduced about $900 over the previous V-6 and 4-speed auto.

alpha01 · February 2003

Actually, depending on the model you were looking at, the likely reason for the $900 price reduction is the addition of a standard power moonroof in XLE V6 models (and all SEs). The new V6 is a direct change, and no pricing changes accompanied it, according to Toyota.

~alpha

talon95 · February 2003

Toyota added a sunroof as standard equipment and the price went DOWN $900? If that's how it works, they should add accessories more often!! <g>

alpha01 · February 2003

No, I was just wondering if you were comparing vehicles that had the moonroof option previously, but now thats standard, and so, the $900 price difference. Re-reading my post, I clearly did not state that well.

So which model was it that you saw, and what was the price exactly?
~alpha

mackabee · February 2003

More equipment became standard in mid January, and the prices remained the same.
: )
Mackabee

mackabee · February 2003

I'll check with the master techs in our shop on the rattle issue. Thanks for posting the press release from Toyota.
: )
Mackabee

fredvh · February 2003

Reference Post #5317; Is this true of the I4 or just the V6 or is it have to do with the model(LE or XLE)?

alpha01 · February 2003

All models were enhanced by additional std. equipment in some way.

Of Note:
1. LE and SEs got standard power drivers seat.
(XLE already had this, should note that at beginning of MY 2003, keyless entry became standard on all models as well, an upgrade from 02)
2.XLE V6 and SEs got power moonroof std.
3. V6 models (FINALLY!) got VVTi, boosting output to 210hp and 220lb ft torque, increases of 18 and 11 respectively.
4. V6 models got a 5sp auto standard.
5. Spoiler no longer standard on SEs.

-alpha

canoe2 · February 2003

I'm glad that spoiler no longer standard on SEs.
I wonder it would be the same for Camry SE in Canada.

andrelaplume · February 2003

Has anyone looked to see what the net cost for a 2002 vs 2003 is considering the 'extras' like a power driver seat now std on 2003. I guess what I am asking is: What do you get on a 2003 LE V4 that was not on a 2002 LE V4 and how much more does the 2003 cost. I'd hate to think I paid more for less by not waiting a year.....

coolguyky7 · February 2003

Whenever you make a large purchase, you have to force yourself never to look back. If you do, you'll likely be disappointed. Just look at the computer industry as prime example number one.

alpha01 · February 2003

coolguy- excellent point.

You probably didnt pay more for less; depending on your equipment levels and options, you probably paid more for the same.

Our 2002 Camry LE had an options package that included ABS,keyless,power drivers seat, and floor/trunk mats. Now the keyless and pwr. drivers seat is standard. (We also opted for the split 5 spoke alloys and locks).

So, compared to the 2003, we paid more for the same. Of course, this is all MSRP based. If you can get a car close to invoice, then you're ahead of the game anyway.

Just because a few features are now standard, that doesnt make our Camry any less of an outstanding value for us.

~alpha

mackabee · February 2003

This was across the board on all Camrys.
: )
Mackabee

mackabee · February 2003

Here's the update. I talked to one of our master techs and he told me some of the 2002 Camrys did have this problem and he also confirmed the TSB. Seems the problem on the rattle or noise from the side pillars or doors was caused by a loose nut or bolt on the window regulators. The dash noise was not in the dash itself but in a heat shield between the firewall and the dash. He told me that at speeds up to 60 mph this shield would vibrate and cause a noise. And now that I remember one of my customers who bought a 2002 and a 2003 did call me one day to tell me about a "funny noise" coming from the dash and she did mention it happening around highway speeds. I made an appointment for her in the service department and the problem was corrected in her Camry.
: )
Mackabee

coolguyky7 · February 2003

And if you did pay a little more than the 2003 owners...you've had a new car longer than they have likely had. (They've been driving an older car while you've been styling* in that 02 Camry, so to speak.) That's just another perspective.

*Term used loosely--Camry isn't a bad looking mid size design in my opinion.

andrelaplume · February 2003

Do have the TSB number for the door pillar issue....I'll make my appt soon if I know my dealer has an instruction as to how to fix the problem as opposed to just tearing it down and putting it back together.

I' also mention about the dash rattle...actually sound like a popping sound when cold.

THANKS!

austinman7 · February 2003

Thanks for the tip on the TSB about the thunk in the trunk. That would be ironic if the thing I care the least about is what they can fix the easiest! Murphy's Law, I suppose. I'll be sure to post anything I find out after my service call, but it will be awhile -- I don't drive that much, so I'm probably more than a month away from first service.

p0926 · February 2003

Hello,

I'm an Edmunds regular but this is my first time posting here. I'm doing some research for a friend and I'm hoping that you knowledgeable Camry owners can answer a couple quick questions:

a. Are there any known reliability issues with the 2001s?

b. Have any 2001 owners experienced problems with their auto trans popping out of gear while driving?

Thanks in advance for your assistance!

-Frank P.

qgu · February 2003

Does this new V6 engine require premium fuel? Thanks a lot.

stnick · February 2003

Does anyone out there know if the optional glass breakage sensor thats available for the 03 XLE is a fairly easy installation. I got a price from the dealers parts department, and I assume that it is a plug in module. If anyone knows where it goes I would like to hear from you. Thanks, Nick.

mackabee · February 2003

Andre, sorry for not getting back to you sooner. It's month end around here and I don't know why but seems like everybody and their sister want to buy a car at the end of the month. I didn't get the TSB numbers but they do exist, I even saw the one for the "thunk in the trunk" most are very easy fixes, the thunk in the trunk and even some in the front are from the struts. The nut that goes over the struts were not tightened to specs according to the tsb. I'm sure if you bring this up to your service department they can look them up for you. Have them look in the TIS computer, they should know what you are talking about or in the Dealer Daily. If they ask how you know about these systems, just tell them you have connections with Toyota ; )
Mackabee

1violinist · February 2003

Hi Frank!

I own a 2001 Camry, V6 Collector Edition. I had absolutely no problem with transmission or any equipment of the car. It's a great car! I think it looks sleeker than the newer model.

The only concern I have is that the paint job is not as tough as I wanted it to be, but if you take care of the car and wax it often it should be ok.

Good luck!
Tony

tester2 · February 2003

I bought a 6 month old certified 2002 Camry LE with 4000 miles on it that was used as a loaner car at the dealer. I really like the car. It still smells new and is as close as I will ever come to getting a new car. I've driven it awhile now and have some questions.

In the Northeast it has been really cold. If I park the car all day at a certain work location and pull out onto the highway when engine and transmission are ice cold the car turns really high revolutions at 50 miles an hour till it warms up. This is the only time it does it. The car is garage kept at night and does not do it if it has been warm out all day. The service manager says this is normal and that the transmission is designed to change the shift points when it is really cold to warm it up asap. I am slightly skeptical about this explanation although my Honda transmission has grade logic and will automatically downshift on a hill to maintain speed without braking so it is possible I guess. Anybody hear of this or experience it in their cars?

The car does not seem to coast or "glide" well when you take your foot off of the gas. I adjusted the rear brakes myself and it still seems to slow down quicker than other cars I have had. Could this be attributed to the way the transmission is designed to operate?

Last but not least what do people get for gas mileage with a 4 cylinder Camery that mostly drive on the highway? I am a little disappointed with my mileage but it may be due to the glide issue I described earlier causing some drag which affects my overall gas mileage.

Thanks to all replies. A poll of real world gas mileage could be interesting.

junebug56 · February 2003

Just wondering how the 03 ELX is. Has anyone had any trouble with them--esp transmission or serious troubles?? I turned down an 03 Acura TL because of trannie problems that are still ongoing. I have a 98 Avalon I really like, but I'd like a new car with a new car warranty. Thanks
for the response!! HAPPY MOTORING!!

alpha01 · February 2003

I have not heard of your issue before, but the shop's explanation does seem reasonable. Our 02 LE 4cyl. averages about 27MPG in mixed driving. (In the spring and fall that gets slightly better).

For anyone interested, check out the newest issue of Motor Trend magazine. A very good comparison test including Accord LX 4, Camry LE 4, and Altima 2.5S. The Accord did win, but MT praised the Camry for being true to its mission- a refined, well executed vehicle that takes the stress out of driving. Complaints included lack of sporty edge, and poor brake pedal feel. Interestingly, the boulavardier Camry actually posted better handling and braking numbers than the Accord.
~alpha
~

canc · February 2003

"The service manager says this is normal and that the transmission is designed to change the shift points when it is really cold to warm it up asap."

This also happens with my Solara V6, as well as my Mom's Corolla. This is a very nice thing to have, with the arctic colds we've been having lately!

pat · February 2003

Real World Fuel Mileage - there ya go - have at it!!

:-)

That discussion has been kinda quiet lately -- with gas prices behaving as they are, it seems an excellent time to liven it up.

andrelaplume · February 2003

I consistently get 18.5 mpg using 87 octane gas. This is pure city driving and includes letting the car warm up in the driveway for up 10 minutes each day.

Mix in some highway miles and it shoots up to 23mpg. Several pure highway trips yielded 28mpg, that was in the summer with air going while driving at 65mph.

I am a little disapointed in the 'city' mileage, then again I wonder how much better it would be if I was not letting it warm up in the morning....it's been real cooooold this winter in PA!

This compares comparably to my old v6 Mystique which got 17 / 23 and 28 repsectively. You would think the 'just as quick' v4 Camry would outperform it but it is a bigger car which I'd assume weighs more...?

johnhenry3 · February 2003

Does anybody have a picture of an 03 Camry with the front license plate bracket installed?

Thanks!

John

cliffy1 · February 2003

That is very normal behavior. The transmission will not be allowed to shift into overdrive (4th gear) until the catalytic converter heats up. Its an emissions thing.

bronzemaxell · February 2003

i believe the camry manual also states that if the engine has not warm up. It will only go up to 3rd gear on automatic transmission regardless of how hard you step on the gas pedal, and the car will feel very sluggish as well. but i think i was able to drive a cold engine at 5th gear manual transmission without any problem, not sure if that will hurt the car.

paul29 · March 2003

How did you adjust your self adjusting brakes ?

tester2 · March 2003

After pulling off the wheel look for rubber plug in drum and rotate it to the top (12 O'clock). Pull out the plug and you will see a grooved wheel thought the hole. Use a screw driver to turn this wheel. The lever resting on the grooved wheel ensures that you can only turn the wheel one way (the lever will click each time you move the wheel with the screwdriver) which takes up slack in the brakes and tightens them against the drum. The drum should rotate freely when you are done with a very slight drag from the brakes on it. If you go too far and the drum is binding because the brakes are too expanded, hold the lever up out of the way with a second screwdriver and rotate the grooved wheel the opposite way which will provide some slack so that the drum will rotate a little more freely.

My car was requiring me to more force to apply the brakes than I was used to. The service manager told me these brakes are NOT self adjusting. I find that hard to believe in this day and age and besides they look like self adjusting brakes to me. That is what the lever is for inside. It turns against the grooved wheel to take up slack as the pads wear down. I have not yet bought the service manuals. They are very expensive.

After the adjustment the car brakes better for me with less force needed. The front brakes were doing most of the work.

paul29 · March 2003

The front brakes do most of the work on any car , as you brake the weight bias shifts forward and the front end compresses , if both ends have the same brake force applied to maximum for the front to still rotate the rear will be skidding. Your service manager is a blast from the past , your car indeed does have self adjusting rear brakes , no adjustment needed especially at the age and mileage indicated and then later on , only if the adjusters are not working. The only adjustment shown in the manual ,as you know , is to release the rear shoes enough to get the drum off ( over the the ridge which forms at the lip of the drum). Have your service manager show you in his shop manual Volume 2 section 32 pgs 38-45 where you need to adjust rear brakes , all it states is information on the automatic (self) adjustment mechanism and other repair procedures. By the way if you are within one year or 12000mi? all adjustments are covered under the new car warranty. It would be interesting to see what he would submit for a claim to Toyota on this issue. What you did was correct and if you feel it helped , that is even better , but it should not have been necessary on your new Camry.

denatz · March 2003

I have a 2002 XLE Camry. How accurate are those
numbers that appear on the dash indicating my
gas mileage? I have the four cylinder and the
computer tells me I am getting around 30 mpg.
I have not performed the manual mileage check,
but I somewhat dubious about this 30mpg, especially during this cold winter in Wisconsin.

tester2 · March 2003

Yes you are correct the front brakes do most of the work on any car. I believe the fronts account for between 60% to 70% of the braking force.

You wrote: if you are within one year or 12000 miles all adjustments are covered under the new car warranty. Are you sure about this? Where can I double check the information? I don't feel the car has much coasting or gliding ability when I take my foot off of the gas. It slows down quicker than other vehicles I have owned. I would like to get this looked at as a warranty claim. This could be why my gas mileage is not up to par.

By the way it looks like I will be checking those service manuals out after all. I got a set on ebay at a very reasonable price.

paul29 · March 2003

On the Canadian Camry in the " Owner's Manual Supplement " book pg 4 it states " Basic Coverage " is for a period of 36 mos or 60000km ( 37500 mi ) which ever comes first , with the exception of wheel alighnment , balancing and related adjustments which are covered for 12 mos or 32000kms ( 20000 mi ) which ever comes first. It has been my experience that almost everything that needs adjustment including seat track , door fitment , trunk lid alignment , headlight adjustment , squeeking brakes , any squeeks and rattles , idle speed , etc which does not require part replacement will be brought to factory specs under this provision of the basic coverage within the shorter time and mileage limits stated. The auto brake adjusters themselves if defective would be covered for the 36 mos or 36000 mi under the full basic coverage as these are parts .

sky33 · March 2003

I'm considering buying a 2003 camry. I'm trying to decide between the 4cyl or the V6 engine. Could anyone share their thoughts on whether they feel the 4cyl is suitable as opposed to the V6 since they increased the horsepower to 157hp. The other concern I have is why would Toyota add the 5 speed automatic to the V6 model if they are having problems with it in the ES300? Have the problems been worked out with the 5 speed?

1violinist · March 2003

Sky33,

I own a V6 and I'm very pleased with it. I had a 4cyl rental for a week. It's powerful enough, except when you want to pass quickly on the freeway or to 'squeeze the orange' (that's British for going through the yellow light).

On the other hand, the 4cyl has a better gas mileage than the V6., not to mention cheaper price!

I'm sorry I don't have accurate info about the 5-speed auto transmission. If I come across anything I'll let you know...

Good luck!
Tony

rev4 · March 2003

I have a 2002 xle 4cyl and find that it has more than enough pick up and power. Don't even hesitate..plus you'll get better gas mileage.

onlyimports · March 2003

If your driving is only within the city, 4 cyl is good enough. If your daily route involve freeways or longer distance the 6 cyl is a better bet. I've own numerous 4 cyl in the past and this is my first V6 SE and the extra power come in handy when I need it. My guess is that they must have resolve the 5 speed auto problem by now. They need to include this tranny and the VVTi to compete with the Accord.

Toyota Camry 2006 and earlier

Comments

Helpful Tools

Most popular vehicles