Faults:

The front end rattle that seems to sound like the wheels, brakes or struts are loose comes from the strut mounts. These swivels are two formed plates with bearings between that help the strut rotate when turning. I thought the struts were the problem and replaced them. One was definitely bad, but that was not the problem. I replaced the strut mounts (they are located on top of the strut prior to placing the strut in position) and the car rides quiet again.

General Comments:

This has been a great car. Routine maintenance, 5000 mile oil changes, 30000 mile transmission fluid changes seemed to be almost the only thing it needs.

Faults:

Cracked head 48,000 - replaced by dealer for free.

General Comments:

The small 4 cylinder has lots of power and great gas mileage.

Faults:

Had an oil leak last year at about 41,000 miles.

Leather cracked on the armrest.

Has an issue with the left turn. When turning all the way to the left, the car now makes a heavy rubbing sound. It is as if the tires are rubbing on some internal instruments, because of this, I avoid turning completely left, which solves the issue.

Biggest issue has been that the oil started leaking. Had to replace a part, I think it may be the head gasket, costs $500 in replacement and repair costs. Happened at 56,000 miles.

General Comments:

The Camry is a relatively reliable ride in the beginning of its lifespan, but as you hit 50,000-60,000 miles, issues start to appear. Apparently the head gasket issue is common among 97 Camry owners.

It's got decent power on the road, the gas pedal feels very easy to step on and doesn't accelerate quickly from a light tap on the gas.

The interior has a lot of room and is very comfortable, there is also a lot of trunk space.

The only issue is with the maintenance costs, which tend to be pretty high.

Faults:

Valve seals had to be replaced right after purchase.

Right front speaker blew around 75,000 miles.

Material falling down from ceiling of car around 77,000 miles.

Outside drivers door handle broke completely off around 85,000 miles.

Inside drivers door handle broke at 93,335.

Material under the hood falling off at 93,400.

Also hood latch is not popping hood up and sometimes cannot be opened at 93,400.

The vehicle does not have any acceleration power on the highway.

General Comments:

Great on gas and mileage.

Lots of space for passengers.

The plastic features break easily and often.

Faults:

During the entire life of the car, it has had a problem with oil and oil sludging in the engine. It hasn't mattered that I've changed the oil every 3,000 miles, and driven it with care. This has lead to an engine tear-down and rebuild at 94,000 miles. This came to a very expensive $2,600 from the dealership, in which was shady, deceptive dealership.

The interior has some minor quirks, like the door lock on the passenger side front door won't work unless you use the power door lock button.

The steering wheel squeaks when you turn it.

General Comments:

This car was purchased based on Toyota's reputation. This car has NOT lived up to the so-called reliability standards of Toyota.

The Camry is a comfortable car, with a very comfortable ride.

Handling is typical of a mid-size car. Capable, predictable, but I wouldn't take an off-ramp at 80.

Fuel economy is no better - if not worse - than my V6 Malibu. About 25 mpg average.

Interior room is very good, and the same goes for trunk space.

The interior is very boring.

Overall, it's a good car with substandard reliability problems.

If you really like the Camry, insist on an extended warranty and make sure the oil sludge problem is resolved, so you're not stuck with a $2,600 repair bill! Poor quality on Toyota's behalf.