2008 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 2008 Toyota Camry solara problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2008 Toyota Camry Solara, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:
- Steering and Suspension: Owners have reported problems with shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage, power steering, wheel balance, springs, torsion bars, bushings, and electronic or air suspension. Complaints include issues like worn-out components needing replacement and leaks in the rack and pinion system.
- In-car Electronics: Complaints related to in-car electronics have been noted, although specific details are not provided in the search results.
- Exhaust System: No specific complaints related to the exhaust system are mentioned in the search results.
- Electrical Accessories: No specific complaints related to electrical accessories are mentioned in the search results.
- Drive System: No specific complaints related to the drive system are mentioned in the search results.
- Climate System: No specific complaints related to the climate system are mentioned in the search results.
- Engine Minor: Complaints regarding minor engine issues have been reported, but specific details are not provided in the search results.
- Paint: No specific complaints related to the paint are mentioned in the search results.
These reported problems highlight various areas of concern for owners of the 2008 Toyota Camry Solara. It is essential for potential buyers and current owners to be aware of these issues to make informed decisions regarding maintenance and repairs.
What are the common problem with Toyota Camry 2008?
AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.
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 2008 Toyota Camry a good car?
The 2008 Toyota Camry XLE is a phenomenal vehicle.
It is reliable and low-maintenance.
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.
What are the common problem with Toyota Camry 2008?
AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.
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 2008 Toyota Camry a good car?
The 2008 Toyota Camry XLE is a phenomenal vehicle.
It is reliable and low-maintenance.
What is the value of a 2008 Toyota Solara?
Used 2008 Toyota Solara Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (nat'l average) | |
|---|---|---|
| SE Coupe 2D | $25,095 | $6,120 |
| SLE Coupe 2D | $27,565 | $6,385 |
| Sport Convertible 2D | $30,120 | $6,590 |
| SLE Convertible 2D | $31,120 | $7,772 |
2008 Toyota Camry solara complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Toyota Camry solara.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2008 Toyota Camry solara recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2008 Toyota Camry solara.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: GULF STATES TOYOTA, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: GULF STATES TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 AND JUNE 2, 2008 WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.
- Consequence: THIS DOES NOT MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. DEALERS WILL ALSO CORRECT THE OWNER'S MANUAL. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GULF STATES TOYOTA AT 713-580-3300.
Negative 2008 Toyota Camry solara car reviews
Positive 2008 Toyota Camry solara car reviews
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I bought the 2008 Version 4 cylinder model after test driving both the 6 and the 4. I ultimately chose the 4 because I didn't notice much of a difference. It seems like I always end up buying cars that are discontinued the year I purchase them! I previously owned a great Celica, but I am more than pleased with the performance of this new car. The mileage stated on the sticker was 21/31, but after driving about 3000 miles, I am getting 28/39, which I am very happy with. The car rides very smoothly and I haven't had any problems at highway speeds. The rear seats fold down, so along with the roomy trunk, there is plenty of storage space.
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Hi there! We looked around for a coupe and we found that the Solara was the best car at the best price. :)
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with the car I own. I've been a proud owner of two Toyota Camrys, one in black and the other in super red, since 2006. I must say, I absolutely love driving them! They are super comfortable and sporty looking, which reminds me of my husband's stunning SC400 Lexus sport coupes. I've owned various Lexus models since 1993, including ES300, GS300, and ES350, but the Camrys are my favorite. Unfortunately, this is the last year for my favorite car, so if you have the chance to get one of the SLEs before they are no longer available, I highly recommend it! Thanks for reading!
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I'm so glad to hear about your positive experience with your 2008 Solara convertible! It's amazing that you've been able to put an additional 160,000 miles on it since purchasing it used in 2011. It's great to hear that you've only needed routine maintenance and that it still looks fantastic. I can definitely understand why people ask you about it and compliment its appearance. It's also impressive that it has been so dependable, even in the snow in Ohio. The ease of putting the top down is a great feature too! At such an affordable price, it's definitely a bargain, especially if the previous owner took good care of it. Thank you for sharing your experience, it's always great to hear about happy car owners like yourself!
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I'm 55 yrs old and this is my first ever convertible! It's been an absolute blast so far, and I can't believe I waited this long to get one. I'm considering adding a park assist (back up alarm) to mine, as there is somewhat of a blind spot.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Toyota Camry solara problems:
2008 Toyota Solara Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
Top 2008 Toyota Solara Problems · Check Engine Light Due to Failed Oxygen Sensor Component · Check Engine Light Due to Failed EVAP Purge Control Valve · Debris in ...
2008 Toyota Camry Solara Reliability - Consumer Reports
Owner Reported Trouble Spots · Steering And Suspension · In-car Electronics · Exhaust · Electrical Accessories · Drive System · Climate System · Engine Minor.
Toyota Solara 2008 — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Feb 7, 2008 ... I have a 2000 Solar SLE V6 Coupe which has 106,000 miles and runs great and I have had no issues. Every one tells me the car will be good for at ...
Q&A: 2008 Toyota Camry Solara Convertible - Common Problems ...
Aug 9, 2013 ... Behind the right side of the dash on the amp. Connector S 11 pin 9 BU/WH wire. Remove this wire from he connector and see if the concern stops.
2008 Toyota Solara Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2008 Toyota Solara? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Other years of Toyota Camry solara
Are you having problems with your 2008 Toyota Camry solara?
Fredrick McClure 2024-06-25
The new engine and trans require a TSB update (0068-08) to improve shifting and acceleration. The radio display could benefit from some improvement to make it more visible with sunglasses. The brakes could be smoother and quieter. Some rattles and squeaks have already appeared, but they can be addressed. Overall, the vehicle has room for improvement in these areas.
Dedrick Hartmann 2024-05-25
Although I was excited to get my first Toyota convertible, I have been disappointed with its pickup. Compared to my previous car, a VW Beetle, this car lacks power and I find myself hesitant when merging onto highways. However, driving with the top down on a nice day is a great experience. It's worth noting that the rear window visibility is poor, so caution is advised when backing up. Overall, I'm looking forward to the end of my lease in two years.