2004 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 2004 Toyota Camry solara problems
The Toyota Camry Solara 2004 has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are the details of these problems:
- Interior Accessories: The 2004 model had a redesigned interior, which led to the highest complaints in this category. The overwhelming majority of reported issues were about a cracking dashboard, which was a common theme for the next few model years. There were no official NHTSA safety recalls, but there were numerous complaints about the overall driving aesthetic and experience.
- Engine: There were five reported complaints about engine problems in the 2004 model. These issues included excessive oil consumption, which may be the result of defective piston rings. Toyota settled a class-action engine-sludge suit in 2007 that covered an estimated 2.5-million Toyota and Lexus vehicles made between 1997 and 2002, including some Solara models.
- Seat Belts & Air Bags: There were three reported complaints about seat belts and airbags in the 2004 model. These issues included faulty seat belts and airbags that did not deploy properly during accidents.
- Windows & Windshield: There were three reported complaints about windows and windshields in the 2004 model. These issues included windows that would not roll up or down properly and windshields that were prone to cracking.
- Exhaust System: There were two reported complaints about the exhaust system in the 2004 model. These issues included leaks and holes in the exhaust, which could lead to decreased performance and increased emissions.
- Steering: There were two reported complaints about the steering system in the 2004 model. These issues included difficulties with steering and alignment.
- Transmission: There was one reported complaint about the transmission in the 2004 model. This issue included slipping or jerking during acceleration.
It is important to note that these complaints are based on the experiences of individual owners and may not be representative of all 2004 Toyota Camry Solara models. However, these issues should be taken into consideration when purchasing a used 2004 Toyota Camry Solara.
What is the problem with the 2004 Toyota Camry engine?
Below are some of the main 2004 Toyota Camry issues. Toyota Camry car owners claim that this model's engine burns oil at a rapid rate, requiring oil change or refill after low mileage coverage. Oil leaking, engine mounts defects, exhaust system issues, and poor car performance could cause excessive oil consumption.
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.
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.
What is the value of a 2004 Camry Solara?
The value of a used 2004 Toyota Camry Solara ranges from $820 to $2,894, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
What is the problem with the 2004 Toyota Camry engine?
Below are some of the main 2004 Toyota Camry issues. Toyota Camry car owners claim that this model's engine burns oil at a rapid rate, requiring oil change or refill after low mileage coverage. Oil leaking, engine mounts defects, exhaust system issues, and poor car performance could cause excessive oil consumption.
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.
Is Toyota Solara fuel efficient?
EPA fuel economy: 20 miles per gallon city/29 highway. Fuel capacity/type: 18.5 gallons/unleaded premium recommended.
What is the value of a 2004 Camry Solara?
The value of a used 2004 Toyota Camry Solara ranges from $820 to $2,894, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
2004 Toyota Camry solara complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Toyota Camry solara.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2004 Toyota Camry solara recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2004 Toyota Camry solara.
- 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.
Negative 2004 Toyota Camry solara car reviews
Positive 2004 Toyota Camry solara car reviews
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What a great car! It's fun to drive, classy, and beautiful. They're selling as fast as they get them, so you better run and get yours. It's so quiet inside and has a smooth ride. Wow! It has everything a Lexus has without the price.
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You were lucky to get this car in May below sticker. You replaced your 2000 solara convertible with this one. As much as you enjoyed the 2000, the 2004 is a better built, better looking car. You work with someone who got the Lexus hard top convertible and comparing the two, you got better value.
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My Solara has experienced several issues, such as dashboard rattling (requiring 6 repairs and counting), a rattling/loose passenger window, whistling door seals at highway speeds, a defective tire pressure indicator, a defective sunroof rocker mechanism, and defective driving lights. Despite Toyota's reputation for reliability, these issues have been surprising.
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This is my second Solara, and I love it! I bought the first model when it came out in 1999. I got an SLE with a V6. I loved that car, but the SE v4 is just as nice. The look, feel, comfort and the driver are excellent. The pickup is surprisingly quick too; even when I was driving up a mountain.
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According to a review by the Cleveland Plain Dealer auto editor, the car has been described as 'less than mediocre' due to its tendency to shudder and shake over even the slightest road bumps, as well as the steering wheel. Additionally, the car has poor rear visibility with the top up, which is caused by the large non-adjustable rear seat headrests and a blind spot from the side of the top. The reviewer suggests adding auto lock and unlock latches for the top, similar to those found in the BMW 3 series, as well as an automatic boot for the top, similar to the Audi Cabriolet, even if it would cost more. Lastly, the reviewer would like the option of body side moldings, as seen on the 2003 model. The seat belts also do not move easily when tethered in the belt holder, which also unlatches.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Toyota Camry solara problems:
2004 Toyota Solara Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
Top 2004 Toyota Solara Problems · Check Engine Light Due to Failed Oxygen Sensor Component · Check Engine Light Due to Failed EVAP Purge Control Valve · Debris in ...
2004 Camry Solara Problems - Camry Club - Toyota Owners Club ...
Nov 26, 2003 ... I also have a rattle in the dashboard that they can't seem to pinpoint. Does anyone have similar issues? I thought I was buying a great vehicle ...
2nd Generation (2004-2008) Solara Problems
Worst Issues · cracking dashboard in the 2004 Solara. 21 complaints · shiney, sticky, and/or cracked dashboard in the 2006 Solara. 16 complaints · excessive oil ...
2004 Toyota Solara help : r/whatcarshouldIbuy
Sep 24, 2021 ... r/whatcarshouldIbuy · Reliability of 2005 Toyota echo. 9 upvotes · 9 comments. r/ToyotaTacoma · 2012 Tacoma Crew TRD 4WD. 2 upvotes · 15 ...
2004 Toyota Camry Solara Reliability - Consumer Reports
Reliability ... Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead.
Other years of Toyota Camry solara
Are you having problems with your 2004 Toyota Camry solara?
Elias Heaney 2024-10-01
Our family has been loyal Toyota customers for the past 20 years, having owned several Corollas and Camrys. However, my recent experience with a Toyota car was not as positive. Despite my initial excitement, the car started to make a loud engine noise from day 2, the alignment was always off, the tire pressure light kept going on, and the seats moved around during turns and sudden braking. Unfortunately, the dealership was unable to resolve any of these issues, and neither were any other dealerships in my area. Despite this, I am grateful for the opportunity to have tried a Toyota car and have since switched to a Honda Accord, which has been a great fit for me. Thank you, Toyota, for the memories and experiences over the years.
Giovanni Von 2024-07-16
Although I understand the frustration expressed, I would like to assure you that I am confident in addressing the issues you have raised. It is important to note that every vehicle may experience some issues, but I am confident that we can resolve them. Please allow me to investigate the matter further and provide you with a satisfactory solution. Thank you for bringing this to my attention.