Common Problems for the 2002-2006 Toyota Camry
Important data note
- The data snippet you provided from NHTSA shows no owner complaints and no official recalls for the 2002–2006 Camry in that dataset.
- Because there are no complaints/recalls listed, there are no complaint-based statistics to cite here. This guide focuses on practical, broadly reported maintenance and failure areas for this generation, combined with generally accepted repair practices and 2025 cost estimates. Data limitations: official NHTSA complaint data for this exact set is not present in the provided material, so the guidance below relies on common maintenance experience and general automotive knowledge rather than a verified complaint count.
Overview
- Years covered: 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006
- Common powertrains: 2.4L 2AZ-FE 4-cylinder and 3.0L/3.3L V6 options (depending on trim). These engines are generally durable, but as with any older car, wear and climate-related aging can lead to specific failure modes.
- Practical focus: how problems typically present, what causes them, how to inspect or diagnose, and realistic 2025 cost ranges for common fixes.
Engine and powertrain (4-cyl and V6)
What tends to happen
- Oil leaks and consumption are common with aging engines in this vintage. Valve covers, seals, and gaskets can seep oil over time.
- Cooling and head-related concerns (coolant leaks, overheating) can occur if hoses, radiator components, or water pump wear.
- Misfires, rough idling, or check-engine lights can come from ignition, fuel delivery, or sensor issues (O2 sensors, MAF sensor, spark plugs).
Symptoms to watch
- Oil spots under the car or rising oil level between changes.
- Coolant puddles near the front of the engine bay; visible coolant on hoses or the water pump area.
- Engine running rough, misfire codes, reduced power, or poor fuel economy.
- Check Engine Light with codes related to misfire, sensors, or fuel trim.
Likely causes
- Valve cover gasket or other gasket leaks.
- Water pump or radiator hoses wearing out.
- Ignition components aging (spark plugs, coils in later models), or sensor wear (O2 sensor, MAF sensor).
- Oil consumption due to valve seals, piston rings, or PCV system wear (varies by engine condition and maintenance history).
Typical repairs and 2025 cost ranges (USD)
- Valve cover gasket replacement: $200–$600 total (parts + labor).
- Oil consumption fix (if caused by valve seals or PCV issues): $150–$500 for gasket/PCV corrections; more significant engine work (rings or bore-related fixes) could be $2,000–$4,500 if needed.
- Spark plug replacement (4-cyl): $150–$300 (labor varies; V6 is higher).
- Ignition coil replacement (if applicable): $100–$350 per coil.
- Mass airflow sensor replacement: $150–$350.
- Oxygen sensor replacement: $120–$250 per sensor.
- Head gasket work or engine overhaul (rare for well-maintained cars but possible with severe overheating or neglect): several thousand dollars; plan $2,000–$5,000+ depending on extent.
Cooling system and related components
What tends to happen
- Water pump and radiator hoses wear out with age; leaks are common at hose connections or pump seals.
- Thermostats can stick, causing overheating or sluggish warm-up.
- Radiator and expansion tank cracks or leaks can develop over time.
Symptoms to watch
- Visible coolant leakage, low coolant level, overheating, or thermostat stuck-open/closed symptoms.
- Coolant smell inside cabin or onto engine bay parts.
- Temperature gauge running high or fans cycling abnormally.
Likely causes
- Worn water pump bearings or seals.
- Damaged radiator hoses, clamps, or expansion tank.
- Faulty thermostat or stuck cooling fans.
Typical repairs and 2025 cost ranges
- Water pump replacement: $500–$900 (labor is the major portion).
- Radiator replacement: $400–$800.
- Thermostat replacement: $100–$200.
- Coolant flush and service: $80–$150.
- Expansion tank replacement: $150–$300.
Transmission and drivetrain (automatic transmissions in Camrys of this era)
What tends to happen
- Automatic transmissions in mid-2000s Camrys can show slow or harsh shifting, occasional slipping, or transmission fluid leaks if seals or gaskets wear.
- Exposure to high-mileage service history affects smoothness; fluid degradation can cause shifting issues.
Symptoms to watch
- Delayed engagement, slipping between gears, bucking or hard shifts.
- Transmission fluid puddles under the car or low transmission fluid level.
- Harsh downshifts or flaring when accelerating.
Likely causes
- Worn or leaking transmission pan/gasket, seals, or internal valve body wear.
- Fluid degradation due to age/temperature leading to poor lubricity.
- In severe cases, pump or torque converter wear.
Typical repairs and 2025 cost ranges
- Transmission service (fluid change with filter where applicable): $150–$250.
- Transmission pan gasket/leaks repair: $250–$500.
- Seal or solenoid replacements: $400–$1,200.
- Full transmission rebuild or replacement (rare but possible on high-mileage units): $2,500–$4,500+.
- Note: Many Camry owners favor regular fluid changes at recommended intervals to prolong life; if problems arise, early diagnosis saves cost.
Suspension, steering, and handling
What tends to happen
- Worn shocks/struts and bushings lead to floaty ride, increased road noise, and intermittently clunky handling.
- Ball joints and tie-rod ends wear over time, causing tramlining or loose steering feel.
- Sway bar links and bushings can wear and create clunks.
Symptoms to watch
- Excessive body roll, front-end clunking over bumps, uneven tire wear.
- Steering wandering or creaking/clunking noises during turns.
- Uneven tire wear, especially on the inside edges.
Likely causes
- Aging struts/springs, worn control arm bushings, or torn CV boots.
- Ball joints or tie-rod ends nearing end of life.
- Sway bar links and bushings deteriorating.
Typical repairs and 2025 cost ranges
- Front/rear struts or shocks replacement: $400–$1,000 per axle including labor.
- Control arm bushings or ball joints: $300–$900 per corner (depends on design and whether you replace with OE parts).
- Tie-rod end replacement: $150–$350 per side.
- Wheel alignment after suspension work: $80–$120.
Brakes and braking system
What tends to happen
- Worn brake pads, warped rotors, or sticking calipers as cars age.
- ABS sensor and wheel bearing issues can cause warning lights or intermittent braking quirks.
Symptoms to watch
- Squealing brakes, pulsation in the brake pedal, or reduced braking performance.
- ABS/Brake warning light on.
- Pulsing pedal or overheating smell after heavy braking.
Likely causes
- Worn pads/rotors, glazed surfaces, or warped rotors.
- Sticking calipers or seized guide pins.
- Worn or faulty ABS sensors or wheel bearings.
Typical repairs and 2025 cost ranges
- Pad replacement with rotors (front or rear): $150–$350 per axle (pads only vs. rotor replacement adds $100–$300 per axle).
- Rotor resurfacing or replacement: $80–$200 per rotor; full replacement $200–$400 per rotor.
- Caliper service or replacement: $150–$350 per caliper.
- Wheel bearing replacement: $250–$500 per wheel.
- Brake fluid flush: $100–$150.
Electrical, electronics, and interior components
What tends to happen
- Aging electronics can show up as flickering dash lights, failing window regulators, door lock mechanisms, or occasional sensor/ECU glitches.
- HVAC controls and blower motors also tend to wear over time.
Symptoms to watch
- Intermittent power window or door lock operation.
- Dashboard gauge flicker, warning lights, or inconsistent instrument readings.
- Blower motor stops or reduced airflow at certain speeds.
Likely causes
- Worn regulators, switches, or actuators.
- Faulty sensors or failing ABS/airbag modules in some cases.
- HVAC blower motor or resistor failures.
Typical repairs and 2025 cost ranges
- Power window regulator replacement: $200–$450 per window.
- Door lock actuator replacement: $150–$300 per door.
- Blower motor replacement: $150–$350.
- Instrument cluster repair or replacement: $200–$600 (varies by model and fault).
- Electrical harness repairs: $100–$500 depending on scope.
Exhaust, emissions, and related systems
What tends to happen
- Exhaust leaks near manifold or gasket can be common with age and heat cycles.
- O2 sensor and catalytic converter failures can trigger emissions-related codes.
Symptoms to watch
- Exhaust ticking or ticking/rattle noises, especially on cold start.
- Check Engine Light with codes for O2 sensors or catalytic converter.
- Reduced performance or fuel economy.
Likely causes
- Exhaust manifold gasket leaks or cracks.
- Failing O2 sensors or aging catalytic converter.
Typical repairs and 2025 cost ranges
- O2 sensor replacement: $120–$250.
- Catalytic converter replacement (marginally common in older cars): $900–$1,500.
- Exhaust manifold gasket repair: $150–$500 for gasket and labor (more if manifold is cracked or warped).
Body, paint, and corrosion
What tends to happen
- Rust risks exist in older Camrys, particularly around wheel arches and lower body panels depending on climate (especially where salt is used).
- Dents and wear from daily use are common in any aging vehicle.
Symptoms to watch
- Visible rust spots, bubbling paint, or corrosion around wheel wells.
- Structural rust near the frame or pinch welds in severe cases.
Typical repairs and 2025 cost ranges
- Rust repair or panel replacement: $500–$2,000 depending on extent and location.
- Paint touch-ups or panel repaint: $300–$1,000 per panel (varies widely).
Fuel system and emissions maintenance
What tends to happen
- Sensor wear (MAF, O2 sensors) can impact idle, MPG, and drivability.
- Intake and vacuum leaks can cause running issues and MIL illumination.
Symptoms to watch
- Rough idle, stalling, or decreased fuel economy.
- MIL with codes tied to emissions components.
Typical repairs and 2025 cost ranges
- MAF sensor replacement: $150–$350.
- Vacuum hoses and PCV system service: $50–$200.
- Emissions-related repairs cost vary by component and fault code; plan $150–$1,000 depending on the part and labor.
Buying tips and prevention for the Camry 2002–2006
- Check maintenance history: look for regular oil changes, timing chain maintenance (these engines use a timing chain, not a belt; no scheduled belt replacement, but chains can stretch or guides wear over time).
- Inspect for oil and coolant leaks around the valve covers, water pump, and radiator.
- Test drive with attention to shifting behavior (automatic), noises, and braking performance.
- Inspect tires for even wear; look for suspension wear signs (excessive bounce, clunking).
- Verify A/C operation and heating performance.
- Review service records for timing chain/tensioner service if applicable (some owners may replace tensioners as preventive or if noise is present).
Maintenance plan to extend life
- Follow a consistent maintenance schedule: engine oil and filter every 5,000–7,500 miles (or as recommended by your owner's manual, adjusted for driving conditions).
- Transmission service: follow Toyota’s recommended intervals for fluid changes (if applicable; not all Camry 2002–2006 models require periodic transmission fluid changes in the same way as newer transmissions).
- Cooling system: inspect hoses, clamps, and the radiator at least every 60,000 miles or if you notice leaks or overheating.
- Brake service: inspect pads, rotors, and fluid every 20,000–30,000 miles; replace as needed.
- Belts/ps pump: inspect accessory belts (if equipped) and power steering components; replace worn components as needed.
- Electrical checks: address warning lights promptly to prevent further damage.
Estimated costs in 2025 dollars at a glance
- Routine maintenance (oil change, filter): $40–$100
- Spark plugs: $150–$300
- Valve cover gasket replacement: $200–$600
- Water pump + timing chain area service: $500–$900
- Radiator or expansion tank: $300–$800
- Transmission service (fluid change): $150–$250
- Brake service (pads/rotors): $150–$350 per axle
- Suspension components (shocks/struts per axle): $400–$1,000
- A/C compressor or blower repairs: $600–$1,200
- O2 sensor: $120–$250
- Catalytic converter: $900–$1,500
Key takeaways
- The provided data shows no official NHTSA complaints or recalls for the 2002–2006 Camry in this dataset; there are no official complaint-derived risk figures to cite here.
- Common, non-fault-specific aging issues for this Camry generation typically involve the cooling system (water pump, hoses, radiator), engine gaskets or seals, transmission wear, suspension components, brakes, and routine electrical/mechanical wear.
- Costs listed are 2025 estimates and can vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and exact trim/engine. Always obtain multiple quotes and inspect with a trusted mechanic when considering maintenance or a purchase.