2002-2006 Toyota Camry: Recall History

Recall History for Toyota Camry (2002-2006)

Data snapshot from the provided material

• Owner complaints: No NHTSA complaints found for this make/model/year/issue combination.
• Official recalls: No recalls found in NHTSA database for this make/model.
• Data limitation note: The information comes from the specified NHTSA data summary. There may be recalls or complaints not captured in this snapshot, or notices issued outside this dataset.

Key takeaway from the data

• Based on the supplied data, there are no recorded recalls or owner complaints for 2002–2006 Toyota Camry in the NHTSA database. This does not guarantee that no issues exist in real-world operation, especially as vehicles age. It simply reflects what’s in the provided dataset.

Practical implications for owners of a 2002–2006 Camry

• No recall history in the data does not remove the need for ongoing maintenance and safety checks. Aging components can wear over time, and some problems may appear only after many years and miles.
• Stay proactive with routine maintenance and inspections. Keep service records, and monitor for unusual noises, handling changes, or warning lights.
• If you ever notice a potential safety or reliability concern (e.g., brake performance changes, engine misfires, unusual noises, steering issues, cooling system leaks), treat it as urgent and have a qualified technician inspect promptly.

Maintenance and inspection guidance (practical, age-related focus)

• Regular service intervals: Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for fluids, filters, and wear items. For aging vehicles, more frequent checks on critical systems (brakes, cooling, suspension, electrical) are prudent.
• Brakes: Check pads, rotors, and hydraulic lines regularly. Replace pads when worn to maintain stopping power. Expect front brake pads to typically last 30–70k miles depending on driving, with rotors potentially needing machining or replacement if wear is deep.
• Tires: Inspect tread depth, wear patterns, and tire pressure monthly. Rotate as recommended to balance wear. Replacement cost will vary with tire type and size.
• Battery and electrical: Age can reduce battery capacity. Check battery health, connections, and charging system. Replace a failing battery before it leaves you stranded.
• Cooling system: Inspect hoses, clamps, radiator, and the water pump for leaks or deterioration. Overheating can cause serious engine damage; address coolant leaks promptly.
• Engine and transmission fluids: Regular oil changes using the appropriate viscosity are essential. Transmission fluid service (where applicable) helps maintain shifting performance. Check levels and condition at regular intervals.
• Belts and hoses: Some Camry engines use timing chains rather than belts, but age-related belt/hoses wear should be monitored. If you hear chain rattle or notice coolant/oil leaks around belts, have a technician diagnose promptly.
• Suspension and steering: Listen for clunks or looseness, and look for uneven tire wear. Front-end and steering components wear with age and can affect handling and safety.
• HVAC and interior: Electrical gremlins and climate control issues can arise in older cars; basic checks should be part of routine service.

2025 cost estimates for common maintenance items (ballpark ranges)
Note: Actual prices vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and whether OEM or aftermarket parts are used. The ranges below are typical out-of-pocket costs for common maintenance and repairs on a mid-2000s Camry in 2025.

• Oil change (conventional or synthetic): $40–$90
• Tire replacement (4 tires, depends on size and brand): $400–$1,000 total
• Brake service (pads, possible rotor resurfacing or replacement per axle): Front $150–$300 per axle; Rear $100–$250 per axle
• Brake rotor replacement (if needed): $200–$400 per axle
• Battery replacement: $100–$200 (typical group size, installed)
• Spark plugs (4- or 6-cylinder, depending on engine): $120–$300 for 4-cylinder; $180–$350 for V6, including labor
• Transmission fluid service (drain and refill or full flush, depending on vehicle): $150–$350
• Coolant/system service (flush or drain/refill): $100–$150
• Radiator hoses and clamps (if replaced): $50–$150
• Water pump replacement (if performed with timing belt or due to failure): $300–$700 (labor-intensive; may require timing belt work if applicable)
• Timing belt/chain service (if applicable to your engine): If belt-driven, typically $500–$1,000; for chain-driven engines, routine maintenance is less frequent, but tensioners/chain guides may require service if noisy or worn (costs vary widely, often $500–$1,200 if replacement is needed)
• AC service (recharge or component repair): $100–$350

How to check recall status for your specific vehicle

• VIN-based recall check: Use your vehicle’s 17-character VIN on official recall portals to see if any active or open recalls apply to your exact car.
• If a recall is found: Contact a Toyota dealer to schedule service. Recalls are typically repaired at no cost to the owner.
• If you suspect a safety issue and the data above shows no recall, still report the concern to a dealer or NHTSA; some issues may have service bulletins or be reported by other owners.

Data limitations and transparency

• The current dataset shows no owner complaints and no official recalls for 2002–2006 Camry in the NHTSA database. This is an important data point, but it does not guarantee the absence of issues for every individual vehicle, especially as aging and mileage vary.
• Recalls can arise from new findings after the dataset was compiled, or may exist in markets outside the dataset. Always verify with current sources for the most up-to-date information.

If you own a 2002–2006 Toyota Camry

• Keep a detailed maintenance log, including dates, services performed, parts used, and miles.
• Schedule proactive inspections of brakes, tires, cooling components, battery, and suspension at regular intervals or earlier if you notice symptoms.
• Stay informed about recalls and service bulletins by checking VIN-specific recall results periodically and subscribing to recall notices if available.

Summary

• Based on the provided data, there are no recorded recalls or owner complaints for 2002–2006 Toyota Camry in the NHTSA database.
• This does not eliminate the importance of ongoing maintenance or the possibility of issues arising with an aging vehicle. Use routine servicing and VIN-based recall checks to stay ahead of potential problems.
• The information above offers practical maintenance guidance and generic cost estimates for common 2025 maintenance needs to help Camry owners budget and plan.

If you want, I can tailor the maintenance and cost estimates to a specific engine type (e.g., 2.4L 4-cylinder vs. 3.0L V6) or mileage range, once you provide more details about your particular Camry.