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    Toyota Camry

    EPA MPG: 26 mpg

    RECALL ALERT:
    There are 4 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    The 2002 Camry has about average reliability compared to other cars from the same model year.

    The 2002 Toyota Camry has been recalled 4 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
    Most Common Trouble Spots
    Common Trouble Spot
    Common Trouble Spot

    Owner Reported Trouble Spots

    The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2002 Toyota Camry owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

    Exhaust

    Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Other/unsure

    "needed new starter"

    Anonymous, AR (2002 Toyota Camry LE 2.3-L 4 Cyl)

    "Had to replace the buckle on the driver side seat belt"

    Anonymous, NC (2002 Toyota Camry LE 2.3-L 4 Cyl)

    ""engine coolant leaking from water pump. dealer sys that it can not be fixed because the water pump bolts onto a metal "ear" that is part of the engine block. According to them the "ear" has broken off of the engine. Their suggested solution was to put in a new engine for about $10,000""

    Anonymous, MD (2002 Toyota Camry XLE Unsure)

    "leaking water pump. problem not resolved because water pump mounts to a 'metal ear' on the engine block which is broken. Therefore it can not be fixed"

    Anonymous, MD (2002 Toyota Camry XLE 2.3-L 4 Cyl)

    ""The warning system in the car. The check engine light is not functioning properly. I live a long way from a Toyota dealership. They recommended a very good garage here in town that had the expertise to help me. When the mechanic checks the warning light, "emissions" comes up as the problem. Replace gas cap. Turn off light. Within a week light is back on. Buy an official Toyota gas cap. The light comes back on. So the change the charcoal cylinder. A week later the check engine warning light is back on. They do a smoke test. Results: can't find a leak that would be setting off the warning. Must go to Toyota dealership. But the one closest will cost a fortune and I've already spent a tidy sum on these fixes that didn't work. Not feeling very safe to drive a car with the check engine light on all the time. Auto Zone said they will check it as often as I need at no charge. Not my most ideal situation.""

    Anonymous, AZ (2002 Toyota Camry LE 2.3-L 4 Cyl)

    "Struts, shock absorbers AND ridicously high labor costs"

    Anonymous A., OK (2002 Toyota Camry SE 2.3-L 4 Cyl)
    Pipes

    ""The pipe near catalytic converter is leaking and makes noise. It happened for a while, finally it fixed by replace a piece of pipe.""

    Anonymous A., CA (2002 Toyota Camry XLE 2.3-L 4 Cyl)

    Body Hardware

    Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

    What Owners Say

    Locks and latches

    "Plastic driver side interior door latch handle broke. Replaced with a $4.00 after market part."

    Anonymous A., CA (2002 Toyota Camry SE 2.3-L 4 Cyl)
    Seat controls - power

    "The seat motor died when getting the car washed and the auto repair staff had to go to an auto salvage lot to find a new power motor."

    Anonymous A., TX (2002 Toyota Camry LE 3.0-L V6)
    Windows

    "Drivers window not working"

    Anonymous, CA (2002 Toyota Camry LE 2.3-L 4 Cyl)

    Paint/Trim

    Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

    What Owners Say

    Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, or peeling)

    "The car was pre-owned and I suspect it had been wrecked, so my complaint about the paint might not be Toyota's fault."

    Anonymous, VA (2002 Toyota Camry SE 2.3-L 4 Cyl)

    "Paint disintegrating on roof & hood."

    Anonymous, CA (2002 Toyota Camry LE 2.3-L 4 Cyl)

    Suspension/Steering

    Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

    What Owners Say

    Ball joints

    ""Both joints have leaked and are very loose. Dealer wants a insane amount of money for repair of just one, on a 2002 camry""

    Anonymous, CA (2002 Toyota Camry LE 3.0-L V6)
    Shocks or struts

    "Shocks are gone and rear struts as well"

    Anonymous A., ON (2002 Toyota Camry XLE 2.3-L 4 Cyl)

    Fuel System/Emissions

    Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

    What Owners Say

    Emission control devices (includes EGR)

    "Ive had the emission system checked and repaired many times! Yet the problem light keeps coming on"

    Anonymous, CA (2002 Toyota Camry LE 3.0-L V6)
    Other emissions/fuel system problem

    "Check engine light has been coming on for several years & constantly for approximately one year. Unresolved."

    Anonymous, PA (2002 Toyota Camry XLE 3.0-L V6)

    Engine Major

    Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

    What Owners Say

    Engine rebuild or replacement

    "Engine would not start due to misaligned timing chain."

    Anonymous A., CA (2002 Toyota Camry SE 2.3-L 4 Cyl)
    Other major engine problem

    "I didn't have any other major auto problem in last year"

    Anonymous, NY (2002 Toyota Camry Unsure 2.3-L 4 Cyl)

    Climate System

    AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

    What Owners Say

    A/C compressor

    "complete breakdown"

    Anonymous, TX (2002 Toyota Camry Unsure 3.0-L V6)
    Other climate system problem

    "air conditioner quit cooling"

    Anonymous A., FL (2002 Toyota Camry LE 2.3-L 4 Cyl)

    Engine Electrical

    Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

    What Owners Say

    Alternator

    "battery light went on. Had car checked. Alternator needed replacement."

    Anonymous, NY (2002 Toyota Camry Unsure 2.3-L 4 Cyl)

    Transmission Major

    Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

    What Owners Say

    Other major transmission & clutch problem

    ""For several years, periodically fails to shift into overdrive. Must then power off & restart engine. Unresolved.""

    Anonymous, PA (2002 Toyota Camry XLE 3.0-L V6)

    Engine Minor

    Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Oil leaks

    "valve cover leaking"

    Anonymous, WI (2002 Toyota Camry XLE 3.0-L V6)

    Drive System

    Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

    Transmission Minor

    Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

    In-car Electronics

    Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

    Engine Cooling

    Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

    Electrical Accessories

    Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

    Brakes

    Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

    Noises/Leaks

    Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

    2002 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

    No Data Available

    Toyota vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    Reliability History
    * Redesign year
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    Overall Reliability Verdict

    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
    Engine Major
    Engine Minor
    Engine Cooling
    Engine Electrical
    Transmission Major
    Transmission Minor
    Drive System
    Fuel System/Emissions
    Exhaust
    Suspension/Steering
    Brakes
    Climate System
    Build Quality
    Electrical Accessories
    Body Hardware
    Paint/Trim
    Noises/Leaks
    In-car Electronics
    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for about 380,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2025 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes, to power equipment and the electrical accessories.
    Recalls
    PROVIDED BY
    AIR BAGS
    Jul 13, 2004
    IF THIS OCCURS, THE CSA MAY NOT DEPLOY RAPIDLY ENOUGH WHEN ACTIVATED IN A SIDE IMPACT COLLISION. THIS MAY RESULT IN FAILURE TO PROVIDE THE INTENDED HEAD PROTECTION, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
    Summary:
    ON CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH CURTAIN SHIELD AIR BAGS (CSA), ONE OR BOTH OF THE CURTAIN AIR BAGS MAY BE TWISTED NEAR THE INFLATOR DUE TO IMPROPER ASSEMBLY.
    What should you do:
    DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE CSAS AND REPLACE THE AIR BAG ASSEMBLY IF NECESSARY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 6, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
    For more information:
    CUSTOMERS CAN ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 04V346000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 128316
    AIR BAGS
    Dec 11, 2001
    IF THIS SHOULD OCCUR, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE DETACHED BOTTOM PORTION MAY STRIKE THE DRIVER CAUSING PERSONAL INJURY.
    Summary:
    VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A THREE-SPOKE STYLE STEERING WHEEL. DURING AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THE BOTTOM SEAM OF THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG MODULE COVER (HORN PAD) COULD BE TORN AWAY ALLOWING THE BOTTOM PORTION OF THE COVER TO COMPLETELY DETACH FROM THE AIR BAG MODULE.
    What should you do:
    DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG MODULE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN DECEMBER 28, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331 OR LEXUS AT 1-888-333-9376.
    For more information:
    ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 01V372000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 19587
    TIRES
    Oct 01, 2001
    THE TIRES DO NOT CONFORM TO THE SPEED RATING FOR THE VEHICLE. IF THE VEHICLE EXCEEDED THE MAXIMUM SPEED RATING (112 MPH), POSSIBLE TIRE FAILURE COULD OCCUR.
    Summary:
    VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH CONTINENTAL TOURING TIRES, P205-65R15 92S, INSTALLED AT THE PORTS IN JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA. THE INCORRECT TIRES WERE INSTALLED ON VEHICLES THAT HAD DAMAGED TIRES. THE TIRES WERE DAMAGED DURING A PORT UPGRADE TO ALUMINUM WHEELS.
    What should you do:
    DEALERS WILL REPLACE ALL FIVE TIRES. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 13, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT SOUTHEAST TOYOTA AT 1-800-301-6859.
    For more information:
    ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 01V302000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 19
    AIR BAGS
    Sep 25, 2001
    UNEXPECTED AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT CAN RESULT IN OCCUPANT INJURY.
    Summary:
    VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. INCOMPLETE DEPLOYMENT OF THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG COULD OCCUR IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
    What should you do:
    DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG ASSEMBLY. BOTH OWNERS WERE NOTIFIED BY TELEPHONE AND ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE TO CORRECT THIS PROBLEM. THIS CAMPAIGN IS 100% COMPLETED. BOTH OWNERS HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED AND THEIR VEHICLES REPAIRED.
    For more information:
    BOTH OWNERS WERE NOTIFIED BY TELEPHONE.NO FURTHER INFORMATION IS REQUIRED.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 01V306000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 2
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