1998 Toyota Camry LE from North America - Comments

Front strut assembly bushings failed, a common problem in '97 and '98 Camrys and Avalons. Have been through two sets of tires in 57,000 miles as a result, and attempted two alignments to correct the tire wear problem. The dealer recently replaced the bushings for free, even though the car was out of warranty. Just installed the third set of tires.

Valve stem seals cracked and leaked oil, also a common problem in 98 Camrys. The car was consuming one-half quart of oil per 2,500 miles. Dealer fixed for free under the power train (60,000 mile) warranty.

Driver's seat is horribly uncomfortable, unlike our other, older Camrys. There is no lower back support, only one seat back angle control, and only one seat height adjusting control.

Front turn signal bulbs routinely become disconnected, resulting in rapid, annoying turn signal noise and low intensity blinking. The only fix is to disassemble the housing, remove the bulb, clean the terminals, and reinstall. This procedure usually returns the turn signal to normal state for 3-4 weeks.

Cashmere beige metallic paint is the worst of any on the four Toyotas we currently own. Even the slightest piece of debris from the road causes chips on the hood and above the windshield.

Toyota makes outstanding, reliable automobiles. We currently own four (three of which are '91,'94 and '98 Camrys), and have owned seven since 1985. The 1998 Camry has been the most disappointing. Despite the problems indicated above, which are insignificant compared to the problems encountered with American cars, this car has been reliable, and has never left us stranded anywhere.

What an insightful review of the '98 Camry LE. This owner obviously knows Camrys and Toyotas better than most. I wish that more reviewers were as thorough in describing the problems they've had with their cars.

I also own a 1998 Beige Toyota Camry and tend to agree with the tires needing replacement. I have 57000 miles on mine and need my third set of tires. The driver seat covering keeps coming undone on the drivers side from the bottom of the seat. The paint is chipping in the front from small debris. The driver side electric window has come off the track twice.

I have a 1997 Camry XLE and I've been recently experiencing many of the same problems that plague this model year (and the '98's for that matter too). The upper strut tower bushings have gone on the two front struts and it's resulting in the characteristic chatter that everyone's been complaining about. Thank God I did a little research and found out it was just the bushing that needed replacing instead of the whole strut (unlike many other people who just went to the dealer and winded-up paying a fortune). Also, the gas cap release is defective. I thought I just wasn't using the release lever properly. That's not the case... apparently the spring that pops the flap is defective. Also, the doors have a tendency to automatically lock/unlock (or at least make the lock/unlocking characteristic sound) while the car's being driven. It's really quite bizzare... haven't looked into it yet though. The starter's also recently gone (c. 115,000 km's). This is another problem common among 1997 Camry's from what I hear.

Your remarks about problems with American cars vs. Camry wrong. Check out reviews on 98 Mercury Grand Marquis or Ford Crown Vics. Actually, any year of these cars. 200 to 300 thousand miles with just normal maintenance & wear & tear.

I have owned BMWs, Volvos & yes Toyotas that were nightmares out of warranty. Granted American cars have their share of problems, but check out other consumer comments. I think you will be shocked at some lofty brands.

Plus closing on 30mpg hwy with V8 power for the mercury. Decent in snow with traction control & proper tires. Not trying to be rude, just informative to people who are blindly loyal for so many years. Really, read some other reviews, quite enlightening.