2005 Toyota Camry LE review from North America
"The 2005 Camry is a great car for someone looking for a well rounded method of transportation"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Only one thing to date has caused any problems while I've owned the car, 8 months after driving the car.
There was a problem with the shift. There was a plastic piece that helps to engage the changing of gears when using the shift knob; this piece broke and I had to use the override switch at the base of the console next to the shifter to get the car into gear.
I took the car directly to the dealership and they replaced it under warranty, and that is the extent of any problems with the car I've had in the almost 3 years of ownership.
I have not noticed a rattle in the dash, and the steering is 10 times better than the 1998 Malibu I used to drive.
The throttle in the 2005 Camry has been pretty nice, and I do not have any trouble merging into traffic.
I tested the car thoroughly before buying and did give the salesman a little scare, but needed to see if the car would perform as I wanted it to.
The only other thing I can think of is the tires that came on it, 205/60R/15's.
These tires were finished before 20,000 miles. I have since replaced the originals with 16" Aluminum racing wheels, and have gone to a Fusion HRI 205/55R/16 that performs much better and has much better wear life.
I also modified the air intake with a cold air intake system recently, the car has much better response now (something to look into for those who think the car is sluggish).
General comments?
The 2005 Camry is a great car, although not the fastest, probably because it was built for comfort and not speed.
It is however a car that has get-up and go when you need it.
I bought the car because it is comfortable and I take many trips in the year. Also, it has a lot of room inside for bags or freeloaders; whichever you have on your trip.
The salesmen do a good job of selling the car, but it is ultimately up to you to decide what you want.
If you are looking for a fast sports car or sports sedan, do your research, but if you are looking for a car that is very reliable, great on gas (trip from NC to GA and back on one tank of gas) and a bit of luxury for a great price.
3 years and no rattles, shakes or squeaks from my Camry.
Also, I have raced a little with this car, and more than a few 4cl and 6cl have been humbled by my grocery getter.
Recommended reviews
| Middling Mid-Sized Sedan |
| What happened to Toyota's Quality? |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 2005 |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.4L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 1 miles |
| Most recent distance | 40000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Malibu |
| Date of Entry | 10th July, 2007 |