2002 Toyota Camry

2002 Toyota Camry

The 2002 Toyota Camry was a popular midsize sedan known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior. It was available with three engine options: a 2.4-liter inline-four, a 3.0-liter V6, and a 3.3-liter V6. Transmission options included a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual.

Drivers praised the Camry’s comfortable ride, user-friendly controls, and low operating costs. However, some owners reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical system.

Engine

2.4-liter Inline-Four

• Oil Consumption Issue:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing piston rings and valve seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 11V513000
• Crankshaft Pulley Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the crankshaft pulley, resulting in engine stalling or difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replacing the crankshaft pulley.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0-liter V6

• No Issues Found

3.3-liter V6

• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the timing belt, potentially causing catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing belt and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping or refusing to shift gears, leading to difficulty accelerating or driving.
  • Solution: Overhauling or replacing the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Subframe Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the rear subframe, affecting handling and safety.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear subframe.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 17V623000

Electrical

• Brake Light Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the brake light switch, leading to dim or inoperative brake lights.
  • Solution: Replacing the brake light switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the power window motor, preventing operation of the affected window.
  • Solution: Replacing the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Climate Control Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Climate control system malfunctioning, resulting in poor heating or cooling performance.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the climate control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard due to exposure to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 2002 Toyota Camry is a generally reliable vehicle with few significant issues. However, engine and transmission problems can be costly to repair, especially the oil consumption issue with the 2.4-liter inline-four. The suspension issue is also a safety concern, while the electrical and interior problems are less severe but can still affect the vehicle’s overall functionality and comfort.