1993 Toyota Camry XLE V6 review from North America
"Best car I've ever owned... AWESOME"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The ONLY mechanical problem that I had with my Camry was a small oil leak, but that was only after I (by my idiot uncle's recommendation) decided to switch from conventional oil to a full synthetic during an oil change at about 135K. As far as I know, synthetic oil had never been used in the car before I purchased it, and I had never used it before that particular oil change. From what I NOW understand, if synthetic oil hasn't been used on a car with high mileage, especially if its not a sports car or luxury car that needs/greatly benefits from full synthetic, then stick to the basic oil with a 3-5K oil change interval. If for some odd reason you want to upgrade to a "better" quality oil, try out synthetic blend as opposed to full synthetic.
Anyway, as soon as I started the engine after adding the new oil, a light white smoke puffed from the hood. Even after I replaced the synthetic with the normal oil (weeks, months later) it still smoked. I'm not sure how it caused it, but it turned out to be leaking from the front engine seals and the valve cover gaskets. Replaced at independent Toyota dealer and NO problems afterwards.
General comments?
I LOVED my Camry. Styling was awesome. I had the XLE package with 6-speaker cassette&CD, leather, sunroof and alloys. Light beige paint on tan leather. Smooth, but powerful acceleration, quiet ride and idle, comfortable seating... Perfect. I honestly got compliments everyday I drove it.
Whoever had it before me took great care of it and I did the same. I STAYED on top of the maintenance, kept the interior/exterior and engine compartment clean, fluids stayed flushed and clean. Just because it's a Toyota doesn't mean you don't have to keep it maintained.
For the home mechanic... DO NOT TRY TO CHANGE the fuel filter. I broke the fuel line trying to get that joker off and I am an experienced do-it-yourselfer. It;s impossible, trust me. Take it to a mechanic.
I sold it because I moved away to college and I wanted an SUV to haul my cargo to/around campus. I shoulda just rented a U-Haul : (
Recommended reviews
| Very reliable, yet comfortable car! |
|
| 1993 - Camry LE 2.2 Four Cylinder This is a reliable, capable, comfortable family sedan that drives like new after 259,000 kms |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1993 |
| Year of manufacture | 1992 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 90000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 186000 miles |
| Previous car | Audi 4000 |
| Date of Entry | 7th November, 2007 |