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
Vehicle is fun to drive. Excellent interior design. Minor problem with a rattle in the front passenger door. This is my 4th Toyota (3rd Camry). Toyota continues to make great vehicles. Wouldn't want anything other than a Toyota.
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Vehicle year: 2008
I bought this car for a great price towards the end of February. It's not the top of the line model but it has the moonroof, 6 disc, and the alarm system. Yes, there is some tranny lag and no, I haven't yet taken it in for the re-flash as I don't think that it will affect it much anyway. I've found that the slow shifts do not occur when the shifter is in manual shift mode & I'm having a blast shifting in manual through town and when merging. Gas MPG has improved @30 MPG combined with 4200 miles which is very acceptable being that my 05 XB gets 33 mpg. The Solara rides very smooth, the front strut tie bar keeps the front end flat and the trunk is huge. Headlights are great & cd display dim.
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Vehicle year: 2004
The car offers a smooth ride, comfortable seats, and fair gas mileage. It may not be a road racer, but it certainly looks great and is not costly to run or own. The ladies love it with the top down, and the large trunk space is a plus. Additionally, it has easy and low-cost upkeep, always starts, and is as quiet as a convertible can be. The interior build quality is excellent.
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Vehicle year: 1999
We bought our Solara new and it has been a great car! With the 4 cylinder engine and automatic transmission, we have driven it for about 116,000 miles with no issues except for the water pump, which had to be replaced at 69,000 miles. It uses no oil and gets from 23-26 mpg around town and up to 34 mpg on the highway. Whether in town or on the highway, it's a dream to drive - smooth and quiet. It still feels like a new car and has plenty of power for highway cruising and acceleration. We've considered getting a new car, but why? We wouldn't be afraid to drive this cross country tomorrow!
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Vehicle year: 2008
It sounds like you've had a great experience with your Solara! From the day you picked it up, it seems like it's been smooth sailing. It's great to hear that everything about the car has been positive, from the comfort to the handling. It's clear that Toyota built an outstanding car that you've enjoyed. Thank you for sharing your experience!
Are you having problems with your Toyota Camry solara?
Mateo Wiza 2025-10-08
Vehicle year: 2004
I encountered several issues with the car from the very beginning, including the 'Left Drift Issue', dashboard rattling, and transmission problems. Despite taking the car to the dealership four times for the pull issue and rattles, they were unable to fix them. I was informed that the car is supposed to pull to the left, which left me completely dissatisfied. As a member of a family that exclusively owns Toyotas, I found this experience disappointing. After owning the car for only five months, I decided to trade it in for a brand new Scion tC, which has had no issues whatsoever. Perhaps the plant in Kentucky could learn from the quality of cars built in Japan.
Braulio Feil 2025-10-06
Vehicle year: 2004
Purchased new 2004 Solara SE Sport on 9/4/03. From day one, car pulls left and tire pressure warning light is always on. Have taken to dealership 5 times, they have opened a case with Toyota Technical, and still unable to fix. Am developing quite a few muscles holding this car on the road. Have discovered numerous reviews on the internet stating the same problems with this car. Very nice looking car if they could make it go straight.
Javier Heller 2025-09-19
Vehicle year: 2007
I purchased my 2007 Toyota Solara last year and was initially thrilled with it. However, after a few months of ownership (once summer arrived), I began to notice an issue with the stereo/Bluetooth. Whenever the top is lowered and raised, the speakers cut out. This appears to be a common problem with this car. Another issue is with the headlights, which intermittently go out. According to the forums, there is no fix and Toyota refuses to address the problem. Despite these issues, I still love the car. If you're considering purchasing one, I would recommend looking for a newer model with a timing chain instead of a timing belt. At around 125,000 miles, my DRL stopped working, but I haven't put much effort into fixing it yet. Recently, I had to replace the alternator at less than 134,000 miles. Additionally, three of the tire sensors are shot, which I hear can be an expensive repair. While I still love my Toyota Solara, I would probably not purchase another Toyota in the future. UPDATE: I fixed the headlight issue by changing the driver's side headlight, but now my DRL are not working. I probably need new bulbs, but I'm not sure which ones, and they are quite expensive to replace. Also, my tire sensors are out again, which is another costly repair. Despite these minor issues, I still love my Toyota Solara, although I have experienced more problems with it than I did with my Nissan Altima.
Ferne Kuhn 2025-08-07
Vehicle year: 2000
I've had this car for 4 years now. I bought it as a compromise between fuel efficiency and comfort since I have a long commute to work. In those 5 years, I've only had to replace the battery and tires, and I've put over 200K miles on it. It has definitely exceeded my expectations!
Gage Hettinger 2025-08-06
Vehicle year: 2007
The issues with the head lights on our 2007 Toyota Solara convertible have been rather disappointing. Despite purchasing a bulb for $89.00, the problem persisted and we were informed by the dealer that it would cost $2000 to repair the system. Unfortunately, this cost was not covered as our car has 40,000 miles on it and I voided the warranty by installing an aftermarket bulb. While the situation is frustrating, we are confident in our ability to find a solution.