1990 Toyota Camry

Introduction

The 1990 Toyota Camry is a mid-size sedan that was available with either a 2.5L 3VZ-FE V6 engine rated at 156 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque, or a 3.0L 1MZ-FE V6 engine rated at 185 horsepower and 205 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were mated to either a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission. The Camry was praised for its reliability, fuel economy, and spacious interior, but it was criticized for its lack of performance and uninspired styling.

Engine

2.5L 3VZ-FE V6

• Head gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include white smoke from the exhaust, overheating, and coolant loss.
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing belt failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include a loud ticking noise from the engine, and eventually the engine will stop running.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt and associated components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L 1MZ-FE V6

• VVT-i system failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include a check engine light, reduced engine power, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the VVT-i system components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Shift solenoid failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include delayed or harsh shifting, and eventually the transmission may not shift into gear.
  • Solution: Replace the shift solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises, and slipping.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front strut failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include a clunking noise from the front of the vehicle, and eventually the vehicle will ride rough and handle poorly.
  • Solution: Replace the front struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear shock failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include a bouncing sensation from the rear of the vehicle, and eventually the vehicle will handle poorly.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include a dead battery, flickering headlights, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include the vehicle not starting, or the starter making a grinding noise.
  • Solution: Replace the starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can occur on the body panels, especially on the rear wheel arches.
  • Solution: Preventative measures include regular washing and waxing, and repairing any damage to the paint as soon as possible. Once rust has formed, it can be repaired by sanding, priming, and painting the affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include dim or flickering headlights.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight bulbs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Window regulator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include a window that will not roll up or down, or a window that makes a grinding noise when it is rolled up or down.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include cracks in the dashboard, especially in areas that are exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: There