2004 Toyota Camry
2004 Toyota Camry
Overview
The 2004 Toyota Camry is widely recognized for its robust build quality and long-term reliability, making it a popular choice in the mid-size sedan segment. This generation of Camry, particularly the XV30, was engineered with durability in mind, leading to a generally positive ownership experience. While no vehicle is entirely without potential issues, the Camry of this era tends to exhibit fewer significant problems compared to many of its contemporaries. Owners often praise its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and dependable performance, which contribute to its strong resale value and reputation as a sensible used car purchase. Regular maintenance is key to preserving its longevity.
Engine
2.4L 4-Cylinder (2AZ-FE)
Oil Consumption
- Symptoms: Excessive oil burning, potentially leading to low oil levels and engine damage if not monitored.
- Solution: Piston ring replacement or PCV valve check/replacement.
- Cost: $800 - $1500
Timing Chain Tensioner
- Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup.
- Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner and potentially the chain itself.
- Cost: $500 - $900
3.0L V6 (1MZ-FE)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
3.3L V6 (3MZ-FE)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
5-Speed Automatic (U250E)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
5-Speed Manual (E351)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
Standard Electrical System
Alternator Failure
- Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, difficulty starting.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Power Window Motors
- Symptoms: Slow or inoperative power windows.
- Solution: Replacement of individual window motors.
- Cost: $200 - $400 per motor
Exterior
Body Panels and Paint
Clear Coat Peeling
- Symptoms: Fading or peeling paint, particularly on the roof and hood.
- Solution: Repainting affected areas.
- Cost: $500 - $2000+
Interior
Upholstery and Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2004 Toyota Camry stands out as a highly reliable vehicle, especially when equipped with the V6 engines. The 4-cylinder engine, while generally dependable, has a known tendency for oil consumption and potential timing chain issues that require attention. Electrical components like alternators and power window motors can occasionally fail, and exterior paint issues like clear coat peeling are not uncommon due to age. However, these are often manageable and do not detract significantly from the Camry’s overall reputation for durability. For buyers seeking a dependable used sedan, the 2004 Camry remains a solid choice, provided it has been reasonably maintained.