1999 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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Common 1999 Toyota Camry solara problems
Based on the information from the sources provided, here are the common problems with the 1999 Toyota Camry Solara based on complaints from owners:
- Transmission Hesitation: Some owners have experienced transmission hesitation, which can vary in severity. Regular maintenance and addressing this issue promptly are recommended to ensure a reliable driving experience.
- Starting Issues: The 1999 Toyota Camry Solara may sometimes face starting problems, potentially linked to common Toyota issues. Installing the Camry Engine Control Module can help monitor the engine and prevent such starting issues.
- Power Window Regulator Failure: Another common problem is power window regulator failure, particularly in first-generation models produced from 1999 to 2003. Symptoms include slow or unresponsive windows, grinding noises, or windows getting stuck. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are essential to prevent further damage and ensure optimal window performance.
- Oil Consumption: Some second-generation Toyota Solara models produced from 2004 to 2008 have reported oil consumption issues. This can manifest as excessive oil usage, often requiring frequent top-ups between oil changes. Causes may include a malfunctioning oil control valve (OCV) or worn piston rings. Proper diagnosis and repair by a qualified mechanic are crucial to address these oil consumption issues effectively.
These problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and addressing issues early to ensure the longevity and reliability of the 1999 Toyota Camry Solara.
Is Toyota Camry Solara a reliable car?
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 did they discontinued Toyota Solara?
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.
Does the Solara have the same engine as the Camry?
The Solara was manufactured to replace the Toyota Camry Coupe from four years earlier (competition to the Honda Accord Coupe). It was designed to be a mid-sized car with sporty features and it had a four-cylinder engine with more power than the standard Camry.
Why won't my Toyota Solara start?
The most common reasons a Toyota Solara won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
Is the Toyota Camry Solara a good car?
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.
How fast is a 1999 Toyota Solara?
A preproduction five-speed V-6 model ran 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds and finished the quarter mile in 15.3 seconds at 91.5 mph. Inside, the Solara offers nearly as much space as a Camry sedan with seating for five.
Why did Toyota stop making Solara?
The Solara was introduced in 1998 and only lasted 10 years until plummeting sales prompted Toyota to abandon their mostly failed attempt to challenge the German sports vehicles from Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and BMW. Their luxury market supremacy remained mainly unchanged and ultimately led to the end of the Solara.
Is Toyota Solara same as Camry?
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 ...
1999 Toyota Camry solara complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Toyota Camry solara.
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1999 Toyota Camry solara recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1999 Toyota Camry solara.
- Manufacturer: AAI MOTORSPORTS USA, LLC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH
- Remedy: AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
Negative 1999 Toyota Camry solara car reviews
Positive 1999 Toyota Camry solara car reviews
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It's great to hear that you've had your SLE for almost 5 years now and are about to roll over 200,000 miles! It's impressive that you've had only a few minor issues with the car, and overall it has been an excellent car. Although the CV joint boot split and ran dry, you were able to replace the axle twice, and it's still running like new! With a smooth ride, good gas mileage for a V6 (27-29 mpg on the highway depending on how heavy your foot is!!), and plenty of get up and go, it's definitely a car that I would recommend to anyone who drives a lot and plans to keep the car for a long time. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
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I've driven this car for over 300,000 miles and it still runs as quietly as the day I bought it with only 70K miles. The only mistake I made was getting a valve repair job at the Toyota dealership, which cost me $1300. I could have gone elsewhere and paid half the price. Apart from that, replacing parts is infrequent, which is impressive for a car this old. It has higher horsepower, torque, and towing capacity than some brand new SUVs, which is surprising for a car of its size. I've never had to tow anything with it, but it's nice to know it's capable. I love this car and I'm convinced it loves me too.
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From the minute I test drove one, I knew I wanted it. It handles great, and don't let anyone tell you a four-cylinder engine doesn't perform. With 135 horses, it's more than adequate for this car, even with the air on. Plus, you get the benefit of great gas mileage. I'll easily put 100,000 miles on it. This is my 5th Toyota, and there will definitely be a 6th.
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I purchased my 99 Solara with 97,000 miles on it back in February 2007, and it has been the best vehicle purchase I have ever made. This car is so well-built, stylish, and solid that I can hardly believe it's almost 9 years old. Sometimes I even go for drives just for the fun of it. I did have to replace the front struts and strut plates, but that was a minor issue. I also added a Pioneer C.D. player to replace the broken stock one, and a cold air intake to improve the car's mpg. While the difference is more noticeable on trips, it still makes a difference in town. I also own a Tacoma, and I must say that Toyota is an amazing brand. I absolutely adore my 99 Solara, and I believe that Toyotas are the best value!
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I have had the car for about 2 weeks and I like it more each time I get to drive it (it is my wife's to drive). We were really only looking at 99-01 Accord EX-VL cars until I noticed this on a local lot (certified). One drive made me forget about the Hondas. The ride is smoother, the leather is better, and the styling is superior to the Accord.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1999 Toyota Camry solara problems:
1999 Toyota Solara Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
Top 1999 Toyota Solara Problems · Check Engine Light Due to Failed Oxygen Sensor Component · Check Engine Light Due to Failed EVAP Purge Control Valve · Debris in ...
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Q&A: 1999 Toyota Solara V6 Loss of Power & Sputtering
Apr 12, 2008 ... If it was me, I would get the vehicle repaired as soon as possible. I have seen common problems with the igntion coils, fuel injector, ...
Other years of Toyota Camry solara
Are you having problems with your 1999 Toyota Camry solara?
Jarrell Wisozk 2024-01-01
My experience with the V6 SLE has been mixed. While there are some positives, I have encountered some unexpected challenges. The cost of parts, such as the O2 sensor, tires, and spark plugs, has been higher than I anticipated. Additionally, the fuel economy of 18-20 MPG has been a bit of a burden at the pump. The A/C controls have been a bit difficult to use, even after owning the vehicle for two years. The doors are quite heavy and require ample space to open, which can be inconvenient in tight parking spaces. On the bright side, the exterior of the car is very attractive and the Toyota brand is well-regarded. In hindsight, I wish I had done more research before making my purchase.