Toyota Camry solara problems
The Toyota Camry Solara, popularly known as the Toyota Solara, is a mid-size coupé/convertible built by Toyota. The Camry Solara is mechanically based on the Toyota Camry and effectively replaced the discontinued Camry Coupé (XV10); however, in contrast with its predecessor's conservative design, the Camry Solara was designed with a greater emphasis on sportiness, with more rakish styling, and uprated suspension and engine tuning intended to provide a sportier feel. The coupe was launched in late 1998 for model year 1999. In 2000, the convertible was introduced, effectively replacing the Celica convertible in Toyota's North American lineup.
The second-generation Camry Solara debuted in 2003 for model year 2004, initially offered as a coupe; the second-generation convertible was introduced in the spring of 2004 as a 2005 model. Coupe production ended in mid-2008. Despite official statements that the convertible might be sold until 2010 if demand was sufficient, production was suspended in December 2008 and never resumed.
First generation (XV20; 1998–2003)
The Solara was created to appeal to a demographic of more sport-minded drivers than those who prefer the Toyota Camry sedan, while still needing "room and comfort." The Camry Solara thus aspired to blend "sporty" looks and style with spacious practicality. Prior to the production of the Camry Solara, the 2-door version of the Toyota Camry was simply known as the Camry Coupe. It was added to the third generation Camry lineup in 1993 for model year 1994 to compete with the Honda Accord and other cars in its class. However, due to it never being nearly as popular as the 4-door sedan of the Camry, the Camry Coupe was dropped in 1996 when the sedan was redesigned for model year 1997. A distinct successor went into development in the mid-1990s, resulting a winning design entry in 1995 from Warren J. Crain of Calty Design and Research. After design approval, production development ran from 1995 to the first half of 1998. Patents were filed at the Japan Patent Office on January 18, 1996, under 1020408 and November 14, 1996, at the United States Patent Office USPTO under D407350.
The first generation Camry Solara went on sale in the third quarter of 1998 as a 1999 model to replace the Camry Coupe. It was based on the mechanical platform of the previous generation XV10 Toyota Camry and was built at the TMMC facilities in Cambridge, Ontario, Canada. This model featured a 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine with 136 hp (101 kW) and 150 lb⋅ft (203 N⋅m) of torque at 4,400 rpm, and a 3.0-liter V6 engine with 200 hp (149 kW) at 5,200 rpm, and 214 lb⋅ft (290 N⋅m) of torque at 4,400 rpm. The engines are the same as the ones used in the fourth generation Camry, but slightly revamped to have a small gain in power (two and six horsepower, respectively). The V6 claimed a 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) time of 7.1 seconds.
TRD Solara
"The TRD recipe starts with a tasteful seven-piece body kit ($1675) available in all '99-'00 factory colors. To be sure the sporty look is backed by more straightline performance, TRD developed a supercharger kit (around $3300) for the 3.0-liter V-6 engine. According to TRD, it bumps horsepower to 262, a 62-horsepower gain over stock. Torque is also raised, going from 214 pound-feet to a much stronger 268. The TRD Solara we tested (equipped with five-speed manual transmission) produced a strong 0-60-mph time of 5.6 seconds compared with 6.9 for stock, a noticeable improvement on the street.
The Solara has been criticized as being too soft in the handling department, and TRD comes to the rescue. New parts include sport springs ($278) that drop the car 1.25 inches in front and 1.75 inches in the rear. Next, come a set of gas-pressurized front struts and rear shocks ($1230) and a larger rear anti-roll bar (price N/A). The final items are 17x7.0-inch TSW aluminum wheels wrapped in 225/45ZR17 Toyo tires ($1859). When installed on our test car, these parts dramatically improved the handling numbers over stock (see chart). On the road, the car is noticeably stiffer, telegraphing more road feel up to the driver. However, the ride is more than tolerable. Besides, we've driven plenty of sports cars that ride worse and don't handle as well. TRD will soon introduce a front strut tower brace as a part of the supercharger package that should further improve handling.
Other upgrades include a sport muffler ($391, nice deep tone), a quick-action manual shifter ($163, faster gear changes), and stainless-steel brake lines (price N/A) and carbon-metal brake pads ($70, improved braking performance).
Other upgrades include a sport muffler ($391, nice deep tone), a quick-action manual shifter ($163, faster gear changes), and stainless-steel brake lines (price N/A) and carbon-metal brake pads ($70, improved braking performance)." -
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The Toyota Camry Solara is also the first vehicle in the Toyota lineup, after their 1997 partnership agreement, to feature a JBL premium stereo option. All models came with a single-slot in-dash CD player and cassette deck from JBL. The SE models come standard with 15-inch steel wheels and hubcaps, upgradable to 15-inch alloy wheels. The Sports Package also adds a retuned suspension, perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel, perforated eight-way power-adjustable leather seats, an upgrade to 16-inch alloy wheels, retuned steering, minor trim changes and a rear lip spoiler.
In 2000, the SE and SLE convertibles were added to the lineup; these cars were built as semi-finished coupes, shipped to an American Sunroof Company (ASC) facility where the roofs were removed and convertible tops installed, and were then shipped back to Toyota for painting and final assembly. Claiming that the car's basic structure was designed for this treatment, Toyota made no suspension changes from the coupe. Toyota did strengthen the rocker sections by doubling them up, while adding steel bracing between the wheel wells, adding 171 lb (78 kg) over the coupe's weight. Nonetheless, the car was considerably less rigid than the coupe.
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Toyota Camry solara model years
Common Toyota Camry solara problems
The Toyota Camry Solara, produced from 1998 to 2008, is known for its stylish design and reliability. However, there are specific model years that car buyers should avoid due to reported issues and complaints from owners.
The 2004 model year is one of the most problematic for the Toyota Camry Solara, with the highest number of overall complaints. The redesigned interior led to the highest complaints for this model and the next few model years. A cracking dashboard was the overwhelming majority of reported issues and complaints from drivers and would be a common theme. The 2004 model was a redesign year, and like many other manufacturer brands, had some significant changes in its first new looking year. The redesigned interior led to the highest complaints for this model and the next few model years. A cracking dashboard was the overwhelming majority of reported issues and complaints from drivers and would be a common theme.
The 2006 model year also had a significant number of complaints, primarily related to the interior material. The dashboard was prone to cracking, ripping, and glossy looks that created a reflective hazard for drivers. Replacement estimates took several months to years depending on the location, and in addition to creating a minor driving hazard, it created an unpleasant look to the majority of the interior.
The 2008 model year is rated as the worst model year for the Toyota Camry Solara due to possible factors such as higher repair cost or more problems at lower mileage, despite having fewer overall complaints than the 2004 model. The most-reported problem is with the 2008 Toyota Solara for cracking dashboard.
Common problems across all model years include issues with faulty oxygen sensors, ignition coil problems, oil thickness problems, and rear suspension faults.
When considering a used Toyota Camry Solara, it is crucial to avoid the problematic model years and be aware of the potential issues that may arise. Regular maintenance and inspections can help mitigate these problems and ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
How reliable is a Toyota Camry Solara?
In terms of reliability, Toyota is known for setting a high standard, and the Solara is no exception. Although it had a production run from 1998 to 2008, certain years stand out as exceptionally dependable: 1999 Toyota Solara. 2001 Toyota Solara.
Why was the Toyota Camry Solara discontinued?
From model year 2005 to 2008, sales fell from roughly 50,000 units annually to just over 20,000. After the 2008 model year, the coupe was discontinued due to faltering sales, but the convertible, which accounted for the majority of units sold, continued to be produced.
Are Toyota Solara good on gas?
EPA fuel economy: 20 miles per gallon city/29 highway. Fuel capacity/type: 18.5 gallons/unleaded premium recommended.
How reliable is a 2007 Toyota Solara?
Similarly, Edmunds asserts that "the Toyota Camry Solara coupe and convertible have quietly enjoyed a reputation for being reliable, well built and pleasantly styled, if not excitingly so." New Car Test Drive adds, "Toyota Camry outsells all the other midsize cars largely because of Toyota's reputation for quality, ...
Latest 5 recalls Toyota Camry solara
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 15 recalls for different components of the Toyota Camry solara.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Toyota Camry solara 2008
- Report Received Date: 2016-06-02
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.
- Consequence: If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.
- Model: Toyota Camry solara 2007
- Report Received Date: 2016-06-02
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.
- Consequence: If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.
- Model: Toyota Camry solara 2006
- Report Received Date: 2016-06-02
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.
- Consequence: If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.
- Model: Toyota Camry solara 2004
- Report Received Date: 2011-11-09
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 AVALON VEHICLES; 2004 AND 2005 CAMRY, CAMRY SOLARA, HIGHLANDER, AND SIENNA VEHICLES, 2006 HIGHLANDER HYBRID; 2004 AND 2005 LEXUS ES330 AND RX330; AND 2006 LEXUS RX400H VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 1, 2004 THROUGH MARCH 31, 2005, EQUIPPED WITH THE 1MZ-FE OR 3MZ-FE ENGINE. THE AMOUNT OF ADHESIVE AGENT APPLIED BETWEEN THE OUTER RING AND THE TORSIONAL RUBBER DAMPER (INNER RING) IN THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY MAY BE INADEQUATE. IF THE ADHESIVE IS INSUFFICIENT, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE OUTER RING MAY BECOME MISALIGNED AND IT MAY NOT PROPERLY ROTATE WITH THE INNER RING, CAUSING NOISE AND/OR ILLUMINATION OF THE BATTERY DISCHARGE INDICATOR LIGHT.
- Consequence: IN SOME CASES, THE BELT FOR THE POWER STEERING PUMP MAY BECOME DETACHED FROM THE PULLEY WHICH COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND A SUDDEN INCREASE IN STEERING EFFORT, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: TOYOTA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL CHECK THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY TO IDENTIFY WHETHER IT WAS PRODUCED BY THE U.S. SUPPLIER. IF SO, THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE PULLEY WITH A NEW ONE AT NO CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING EARLY JANUARY 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
- Model: Toyota Camry solara 2005
- Report Received Date: 2011-11-09
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 AVALON VEHICLES; 2004 AND 2005 CAMRY, CAMRY SOLARA, HIGHLANDER, AND SIENNA VEHICLES, 2006 HIGHLANDER HYBRID; 2004 AND 2005 LEXUS ES330 AND RX330; AND 2006 LEXUS RX400H VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 1, 2004 THROUGH MARCH 31, 2005, EQUIPPED WITH THE 1MZ-FE OR 3MZ-FE ENGINE. THE AMOUNT OF ADHESIVE AGENT APPLIED BETWEEN THE OUTER RING AND THE TORSIONAL RUBBER DAMPER (INNER RING) IN THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY MAY BE INADEQUATE. IF THE ADHESIVE IS INSUFFICIENT, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE OUTER RING MAY BECOME MISALIGNED AND IT MAY NOT PROPERLY ROTATE WITH THE INNER RING, CAUSING NOISE AND/OR ILLUMINATION OF THE BATTERY DISCHARGE INDICATOR LIGHT.
- Consequence: IN SOME CASES, THE BELT FOR THE POWER STEERING PUMP MAY BECOME DETACHED FROM THE PULLEY WHICH COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND A SUDDEN INCREASE IN STEERING EFFORT, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: TOYOTA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL CHECK THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY TO IDENTIFY WHETHER IT WAS PRODUCED BY THE U.S. SUPPLIER. IF SO, THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE PULLEY WITH A NEW ONE AT NO CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING EARLY JANUARY 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
Latest negative Toyota Camry solara car reviews
Latest positive Toyota Camry solara car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2004
I've had this car for about a year now and I absolutely love it! It's incredibly spacious, well-made, and has a luxurious feel. The stereo is also awesome and I really appreciate the hard lines and sporty look. It runs so smoothly and feels light and fast. Overall, it's truly a fantastic car!
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Vehicle year: 2002
Your car sounds amazing! It's so impressive that you've had it since 2003 and it's still going strong with 199,000 miles on it. It's clear that you have a lot of great memories with it, like driving across the US with your kids. I can tell that you really appreciate its handling and maneuverability, and the fact that it still has spunk after all these years. And of course, it's great to hear that you love the way it looks too, including the back spoiler. Thanks for sharing your story!
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Vehicle year: 1999
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my Solara. I bought it brand new for less than $20K and it's been such a great investment. It's a four cylinder automatic with alloy wheels and a few bells and whistles, and even after all these years, it still looks great! I've put 155,000 miles on it and haven't had to make any major repairs. My goal was to reach 200,000 miles, but now I'm thinking I can easily hit 250,000! I've been a fan of Honda and Toyotas for about twenty years now because of their reliability, fuel efficiency, and design. If you follow the scheduled maintenance, I'm sure you won't be disappointed. I'm already thinking about my next car and I'm definitely considering another Solara. Maybe even the convertible! Thanks for listening.
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Vehicle year: 2002
I bought this car certified used with 75K miles in '05 and it has been a faithful companion ever since. Now with 230K miles, it still runs great regardless of the distance I need to drive. The 4 cyl engine is surprisingly capable of pushing a rather heavy car and the handling is good for such a large, comfortable car. The fuel mileage is impressive at 26-27 mpg in mixed driving. The performance is competent and reliable, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a well-sorted Buick. My favorite features include the insulated convertible top that provides a very quiet cabin or wide open sky, the JBL stereo that sounds great, and the velour cloth seats that are very comfortable and the driver's seat is limitlessly adjustable. Four adults can sit in the car comfortably and the ride is smooth and comfortable for the most part with a smooth shifting automatic. On the right days with good back roads, this car can provide a sublime experience. It kind of disappears under you. Although I haven't serviced it often, I have had a few extraordinary items - the rear window in the convertible top shattered when it caught the lip for the tonneau cover on the back seat while closing the top, the top had stretched; the radiator was replaced; the baffle in the intake plenum has loosened and gives a sound like a bad exhaust pipe; charcoal vapor canister replaced. But that's about it. Overall, it has been extraordinarily reliable, never leaving me stranded, and the peace of mind that comes with that is in large part why I just relax every time I open the door and sit behind the wheel. It is wonderful when weather permits top down motoring - It's Solara Time! The worst aspects of the car are the way it judders and shakes and rattles on rough surfaces, like gravel roads or railroad crossings - the ride isn't bad, there's just a lot of flex in the body and the large doors and rattling windows create a cacophony. The top is fairly good most of the time but in heavy rain leaks are a problem - probably a drainage issue in the windshield posts. I'm in the process of a mini-restoration as I hope to drive it another 100K miles.I must admit, I have a bit of a soft spot for this car. It's truly one of a kind and stands out from the rest. If you're not in the market for a sports car, but instead looking for a reliable touring car with ample space for four and a spacious trunk (mine even has a full-sized spare!), then a used Solara is an absolute steal at current market prices. I highly recommend it!
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Vehicle year: 2006
I got mine for $18.1k plus tax/etc. I love it so far! Although, I think my radio antenna is malfunctioning. I love the seats! They're very comfortable and sporty. The '07 model is definitely better. They have nice upgrades like HID headlights, LED taillights, and an MP3 player, but I got the '06 model at a big discount.
Are you having problems with your Toyota Camry solara?
Monte Connelly 2025-04-07
Vehicle year: 2006
I leased this car in May 2005 (2006 model) and I was really impressed with the ride, acceleration, and quietness. Although, I should have driven a little more with the top up for the test drive. Driving with the top down is pure pleasure! However, driving with the top up can be challenging due to the large rear headrests (which cannot be removed) and the large c-pillars. But, one quickly learns to drive using only the side mirrors. I have had a few close-calls cutting people off because I could not see them beside me or slightly behind. When backing up, it is necessary to put your head out the driver's window to look back. The mechanical and build quality are absolutely perfect!
Guiseppe Gulgowski 2025-03-12
Vehicle year: 2001
We have been experiencing consistent vibration and squeaking in the body of our auto, which has become much worse over the past year. This is not related to the usual noises of a convertible roof. Unfortunately, we have not received any cooperation from Toyota, which is surprising given that we have had their vehicles previously with no issues. Needless to say, we are very disappointed with this vehicle.
Robbie Effertz 2025-02-21
Vehicle year: 2003
In comparison to its closest competitor, the Sebring Limited, this convertible is definitely worth the extra investment. The 200hp engine provides a powerful and smooth acceleration, while the handling is exceptional, making it a comfortable ride even on rough roads. The only downside is that the stereo system is quite bass-heavy and cannot be turned down, which may not be to everyone's liking. If you prefer a more balanced sound, this may not be the car for you. Despite this, I still think it's a great car, but unfortunately, it's not the right fit for me.
Erick Abshire 2025-02-11
Vehicle year: 2001
The ride is much quieter and smoother compared to my Sebring Conv. However, the wrinkles next to the back and side windows are unattractive and can be embarrassing. Additionally, the wind noise with the top up is inexcusable. Overall, it's a good car, but the convertible top could use some improvement.
Eugene Rohan 2025-01-27
Vehicle year: 2005
This car has a very solid feel when driving and seems to handle the road with ease, which is likely due to the 15-inch tires. While the V6 engine provides good power, we have experienced some inconsistency with starting. Unfortunately, the dealership has attributed this to fuel injection, which we find disappointing as we have not had this issue with other fuel-injected cars. Additionally, we have noticed some shifting issues with the transmission, particularly when turning corners, which the dealership has referred to as 'wire lag' due to the computer-controlled transmission. This can cause the car to surge, and unfortunately, there is currently no fix available according to the dealer.