2000 Toyota Camry LE from North America - Comments

Front right tire developed a belt problem. Had to replace both front tires.

The battery died two days after I bought the car.

Transmission developed a large clunk when downshifting from second gear. This started around 70,000 and got progressively worse.

Annoying rattle from rear suspension. I was told this was normal for Camry's. I used to drive a 92 Camry v6 that had this same issue even after replacing rear shocks.

This car had serious power and surprisingly decent gas mileage.

Handling is about average for a mid size family sedan.

This car was always maintained. When I bought it, it had all the service records and everything was up to date. I had the transmission flushed shortly after I bought the car. Having never beat on the car, I'm disappointed with the transmission situation. First I was told by the dealer that the transmission glitch was likely caused by needing new motor mounts. I spent $300 to replace one motor mount that was worn out. The rest were fine.

Hard downshifting stopped for about a week or two, then it returned. I went back to the dealership for an estimate and check up on the transmission. They wanted $4000.00 for the rebuild. This car had about 100,000 miles on it at this point and gas prices recently went way up. One fill up would cost me around $60. I decided this vehicle was too costly to own so I traded it in.

A good friend of mine experienced the same type of transmission problem with his Camry. This seems to be a pretty common problem. He also felt it was turning into a money pit and bought a GM car.