1991 Toyota Camry

Introduction

The 1991 Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. It was available with three engine options: a 2.0L 4-cylinder, a 2.5L V6, and a 3.0L V6. The 2.0L engine produced 115 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.5L V6 produced 160 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque. The 3.0L V6’s output was 185 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual, and 4-speed electronically controlled transmission (ECT).

Owners appreciate the Camry’s dependability, roomy interior, and smooth handling. However, some common issues have been reported.

Engine

2.0L 4-cylinder

• Engine Knock:
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or rattling noise from the engine under acceleration, especially when the engine is cold.
  • Solution: Replace piston rings and/or pistons.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the valve cover gasket, visible as a dark brown or black substance on the engine and exhaust manifold.
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

2.5L V6

• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt may fail prematurely, causing the engine to skip time or stall.
  • Solution: Replace timing belt and any damaged components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak from the intake manifold gasket, visible as a green or pink substance on the engine block and firewall.
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800

3.0L V6

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak into the oil or oil into the coolant, resulting in milky oil or chocolate-colored coolant.
  • Solution: Replace head gasket and any damaged components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+

Transmission

4-speed Automatic

• Transmission Slippage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission loses power or slips between gears.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• Shift Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission does not shift properly, may get stuck in a specific gear.
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

5-speed Manual

• Clutch Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping clutch, burning smell.
  • Solution: Replace clutch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

4-speed ECT

• Speed Sensor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shifts erratically or may not shift at all.
  • Solution: Replace speed sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Suspension

• Strut Bushing Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the suspension, especially over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace strut bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Sway Bar Link Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Popping or clicking noise from the suspension when turning or hitting bumps.
  • Solution: Replace sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging properly, electrical components malfunctioning, or warning lights illuminating.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine fails to crank or cranks slowly.
  • Solution: Replace starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Exterior

• Rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust appears on body panels, especially on wheel arches and rocker panels.
  • Solution: Repair rust spots or replace rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+

Interior

• Dashboard Crack:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard due to sun exposure or age.
  • Solution: Cover cracks with dash cover or replace dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
• Seat Belt Pretensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat belt does not lock in a collision.
  • Solution: Replace seat belt pretensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign ID: 06V437000

Summary

While the 1991 Toyota Camry is generally a reliable vehicle, it is not without its issues. The most severe issues include engine knock, timing belt failure, head gasket failure, and rust. The cost to fix these issues can be significant, ranging from $1,500 to $3,000+. However, many of the other issues are relatively minor and can be fixed for a few hundred dollars. Overall, the Camry remains a good choice for those seeking a dependable and comfortable sedan.