2002-2006 Toyota Camry: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2002-2006 Toyota Camry and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration (V6)
- Build quality
- Quietness
- Ride
- Interior storage space
Cons
- Navigation-system controls
Vehicle Highlights
Toyota redesigned one of America's best-selling cars for 2002. The popular Camry got new styling, as well as a 2-inch longer wheelbase than its 1997-2001 predecessor. Slightly taller and longer overall, the front-drive midsize sedan was only a little heavier. Base LE, uplevel XLE, and sporty new SE models were offered. Standard was a new 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, with 21 more horsepower than the 2.2-liter that it replaced. A V6 was available on all models. All V6 sedans and the four cylinder XLE had a standard automatic transmission and antilock braking; both of those items were optional on other Camrys. New options included front torso side airbags, and curtain-style airbags; V6 models could combine those safety features with a newly available antiskid system. Also new was an optional navigation system, with dashboard touch screen. Standard LE equipment included air conditioning, air filtration, a tilt steering wheel, cruise control, a cassette/CD stereo, cloth upholstery, and 15-inch wheels. The SE sedan got a firmer suspension with 16-inch tires, fog lamps, rear spoiler, and special trim. Moving up to an XLE brought heated power mirrors, power front seats, automatic climate control, and a rear sunshade. The ES 300 from Toyota's luxury Lexus division shared the Camry's basic new design. Rivals included the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, and Ford Taurus.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Toyota Camry SE V6 w/automatic transmission Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 7 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 7 | |
| Controls/Materials | 10 | |
| Interior Room | 8 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 5 | |
| Value within Class | 9 | |
| Total Score: | 69 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2002-2006 Toyota Camry. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2002-2006 Toyota Camry.
Year to Year Changes
2003 Toyota Camry/Solara:
Power-adjustable pedals were newly optional on sedans with an automatic transmission. Fog lamps became standard on the XLE model, while the LE gained standard remote keyless entry.
2004 Toyota Camry/Solara:
In 2004, the 3.0-liter V6 available in the LE and XLE gains 18 hp, making it get 210-hp. Now available in the SE is a 3.3-liter 225-hp V6. Both mate to a new 5-speed automatic transmission this year.
2005 Toyota Camry/Solara:
Antilock brakes are standard on all models of this popular midsize sedan for 2005, and 4-cyl versions get a new transmission. V6s come with a 5-speed automatic, which for '05 replaces a 4-speed automatic as optional for 4-cyl models. All Camrys include ABS. It had been optional on Standard models and on the 4-cyl LE and SE, though the 4-cyl LE retains rear drum brakes, while other Camrys have 4-wheel discs. The '05 Camrys get minor changes inside and out, including standard steering-wheel audio controls and a rear center headrest. SEs come with a specific new grille and a firmer suspension. Satellite radio joins an options list that also includes a navigation system and, for automatic-transmission models except the Standard, power-adjustable pedals. Leather upholstery is optional for SEs and 4-cyl XLEs, and newly standard for V6 XLEs.
2006 Toyota Camry/Solara:
There were no changes for the 2006 Camry.
Our road test for the 2002-2006 Toyota Camry includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2002-2006 Toyota Camry and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2002-2006 Toyota Camry is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
A four-cylinder LE with automatic transmission accelerated to 60 mph in 9.2 seconds. That's competitive with class rivals and adequate for most any chore, aided by a smooth, alert automatic transmission. The V6 is strong and responsive, reaching 60 mph in 8.3 seconds. Fuel economy also is a benefit. A four-cylinder LE with automatic averaged 23.3 mpg. Models with V6/automatic averaged 20.4 to 21.1 mpg. All figures included a mix of city/freeway driving. Toyota recommends regular-grade gasoline for the four-cylinder and premium for the V6. Ride quality is comfortably supple and absorbent in all models, with very low impact harshness. The standard suspension suffers minor unwanted "float" over dips and swells. The more firmly damped SE suspension provides better body control, with no comfort penalty. Handling is safe, predictable, and pleasant. Body lean is apparent in tight, fast turns, but not excessive. An SE is more confident, with slightly less lean and better stability, but far from sport-sedan nimble. Quick, precise steering needs better road feel in all models. Brakes are strong and easily modulated, but a Camry with ABS is your best bet. As for quietness, the Camry tops its class in refinement. Minor tire thrum is evident on coarse pavement, but the impressive four-cylinder engine is almost as smooth and quiet as the V6. Instruments and controls are simple and intuitive, placed in a stylish dashboard that puts most everything up high and close. The optional navigation system is easier to use than some, but requires effort to learn. Its screen tilts for viewing, but must be powered fully open to access CD and tape slots. Workmanship and materials are fine. Front occupants get adult-size space, with comfortable bucket seats and a good range of adjustments, especially in the XLE edition. The driver sits higher than in past Camrys, but current styling somewhat impedes rearward visibility. These Camrys feel slightly roomier in back than their predecessors, with ample head and knee space outboard, and enough for a middle rider on short trips. Entry/exit is easy. The 2002 redesign enlarged the Camry's trunk by 2.7 cubic feet, for better volume than in many rival sedans, but the narrow aperture cannot swallow really bulky items. Interior storage is ample and handy, particularly in front.
Value for the Money
Camry's redesign brought laudable new safety features and lifted comfort, convenience, and refinement to nearly Lexus levels. Although all these must-try midsizes still engage the head more than the heart, Toyota's proven reliability is tough to beat. Slightly lower new-car sticker prices made Camrys an even stronger value than before, but high resale figures tend to keep used-car prices on the high side. Don't buy a midsize car without considering Toyota's all-around excellent family sedan.
Camry's redesign brought laudable new safety features and lifted comfort, convenience, and refinement to nearly Lexus levels. Although all these must-try midsizes still engage the head more than the heart, Toyota's proven reliability is tough to beat. Slightly lower new-car sticker prices made Camrys an even stronger value than before, but high resale figures tend to keep used-car prices on the high side. Don't buy a midsize car without considering Toyota's all-around excellent family sedan.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Toyota Camry SE V6 w/automatic transmission Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 7 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 7 | |
| Controls/Materials | 10 | |
| Interior Room | 8 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 5 | |
| Value within Class | 9 | |
| Total Score: | 69 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Toyota Camry/Solara includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Toyota Camry/Solara .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Engine noise:
Belt squeal and rattle on cold engine due to faulty tensioner on 2AZ-FE engine requires updated tensioner. (2002-04)
Engine stalling:
The check-engine light may come on when the temperature is below freezing (32 degrees F) accompanied by poor engine performance. This requires replacement of the throttle body, gasket, and intake surge tank. (2002)
Fuel pump:
If the gas cap gets stuck, it can be replaced with an improved cap. (2002)
Poor transmission shift:
Early production vehicles with automatic transmissions may shift poorly. The revised engine-control module designed for 2003 models can be installed in older vehicles. (2002)
Valve cover leaks:
If service personnel using bulk oil-fill equipment are not careful, the oil-fill nozzle may bend or break the oil baffle inside the valve cover. (2002-03)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $655 |
| Alternator | $490 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,430 |
| Brakes | $450 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $950 |
| Exhaust System | $475 |
| Radiator | $510 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $900 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $375 |
Our price chart for this generation Toyota Camry/Solara details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2006 | |||
| Camry 4-cylinder | $13,500-15,300 | $12,300-13,900 | $8,000-9,000 |
| Camry V6 | $15,000-17,300 | $13,700-15,700 | $9,500-10,900 |
| 2005 | |||
| Camry 4-cylinder | $11,900-13,600 | $10,700-12,200 | $6,700-7,600 |
| Camry V6 | $13,200-15,500 | $12,000-14,100 | $7,700-9,000 |
| 2004 | |||
| Camry 4-cylinder | $10,500-11,900 | $9,500-10,700 | $5,600-6,300 |
| Camry V6 | $11,800-13,500 | $10,600-12,200 | $6,600-7,600 |
| 2003 | |||
| Camry 4-cylinder | $9,200-10,500 | $8,300-9,500 | $4,800-5,500 |
| Camry V6 | $10,300-11,500 | $9,300-10,400 | $5,500-6,100 |
| 2002 | |||
| Camry 4-cylinder | $8,000-9,200 | $7,200-8,300 | $4,100-4,700 |
| Camry V6 | $8,800-10,200 | $7,900-9,200 | $4,600-5,300 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Toyota Camry/Solara include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door sedan | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 107.1 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 189.2 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 70.7 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 58.3 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3086 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 16.7 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.5 | |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.2 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.6 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.3 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 37.8 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Toyota's dual-overhead-cam 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produced 157 horsepower, while the 3.0-liter V6 generated 192 hp. Four-cylinder models could have either a five-speed manual gearbox or a four-speed automatic transmission, but the V6 mated only with automatic. In 2004, The 3.0-liter V6 now produces 210-hp instead of 192-hp, and a 3.3-liter 225-hp V6 was also added. Both come with a new 5-speed automatic transmission in 2004. In 2005, V6s come with a 5-speed automatic, which also replaces a 4-speed automatic on 4-cyl models.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc I4 | 2.4 / 144 | 157 | 162 | 5-speed manual: 24/33 4-speed automatic: 23/32 5-speed automatic: -- |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 23.3 5-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc V6 | 3.0 / 183 | 192 | 209 | 4-speed automatic: 20/27 | 4-speed automatic: 20.4 |
| dohc V6 | 3.3 / 202 | 225 | 222 | 5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- 5-speed automatic: 20/29 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- 5-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Toyota Camry/Solara include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 2002 Camry |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2002-2006 Toyota Camry directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2002 Camry w/3-spoke steering wheel:
During airbag deployment, it is possible that the bottom portion of the airbag cover may strike the driver causing personal injury. Dealers will replace the driver's-side airbag module.
2002-04 Camry w/curtain shield airbags:
One or both of the curtain airbags may be twisted near the inflator and may not deploy rapidly enough.
2004-05 Camry w/front passenger power seat:
When installing certain rear-facing infant seat bases onto seat with excessively high belt tension, buckle status switch could become unseated and system might not suppress deployment of the front airbag.
2004-06 Camry:
Some air bag inflators were produced with an insufficient amount of the heating agents. In this condition, the expansion force of the gas may be insufficient to properly inflate the air bag, increasing the risk of injury in a crash. Dealers will replace the specific SRS air bag.
2006 Camry:
Tire information sticker gives incorrect spare tire size. Correct information and instructions are distributed.
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