2007 Toyota Solara
The 2007 Toyota Solara is a two-door coupe or convertible known for its reliability and comfortable ride. Engine options include a 2.4L inline-4 producing 158 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.3L V6 producing 210 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque. The inline-4 was paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission, while the V6 was exclusively paired with a 5-speed automatic. Owners often praise the Solara for its smooth ride and Toyota’s reliability, but some dislike its somewhat bland styling and limited rear passenger space.
Engine
2.4L Inline-4
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners report higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This can manifest as blue smoke from the exhaust and a burning oil smell.
- Solution: Monitoring oil levels closely and using a higher viscosity oil may help. In severe cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
3.3L V6
- VVTi Oil Line Leak
- Description/Symptoms: The Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVTi) oil line can develop leaks. Symptoms include oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil level.
- Solution: Replacing the VVTi oil line with an updated, reinforced version.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Automatic (U250E/U151E)
- Delayed or Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience delayed or harsh shifting, particularly between 2nd and 3rd gear. This can also manifest as transmission slipping.
- Solution: A transmission fluid flush and filter change might alleviate the issue. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or a complete transmission rebuild may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for fluid flush; $800 - $3500+ for valve body or rebuild.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Strut Mount Noise
- Description/Symptoms: Clicking or popping noises coming from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps.
- Solution: Replacement of the front strut mounts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Power Window Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the power windows. The window may get stuck in either the up or down position.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty power window motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Clock Spring Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of functionality for steering wheel-mounted controls (horn, audio controls, cruise control), and/or airbag warning light illumination.
- Solution: Replacing the clock spring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Convertible Top Issues (Convertible Models Only)
- Description/Symptoms: Convertible top motor failure, hydraulic leaks, or fabric tears/damage.
- Solution: Motor replacement, hydraulic line repair, or top fabric replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ depending on the severity of the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard material, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
- Solution: Dashboard replacement, which is a costly repair, or using a dashboard cover to conceal the cracks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ for replacement; $20 - $100 for a cover.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2007 Toyota Solara is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners may encounter issues such as excessive oil consumption (2.4L engine), VVTi oil line leaks (3.3L engine), and transmission problems. Other common complaints include suspension noise, electrical failures, and interior/exterior issues. The severity and cost of repairs can vary, but some issues can be relatively inexpensive to fix, while others, like transmission rebuilds or dashboard replacement, can be quite costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and inspect the vehicle thoroughly before purchasing.