Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2004 Toyota Camry Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

88/ 100
LOW RISK

Grade: A-

A practically bulletproof used car, provided you understand and manage the 2.4L engine's thirst for oil.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 2004 Toyota Camry?

The 2004 Toyota Camry stands as one of the most dependable used sedans you can acquire, offering exceptional long-term value and peace of mind for the budget-conscious buyer. While not without its quirks, especially regarding the 2.4L engine's oil habits, proper vigilance can ensure this car delivers hundreds of thousands of trouble-free miles. This is a smart, safe buy for anyone prioritizing steadfast reliability over flash.

Biggest Strengths

  • Legendary powertrain durability (especially V6)
  • Strong resale value for its age
  • Excellent parts availability and repairability

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2004 Toyota Camry. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
2.4L Engine Oil Consumptionmoderate
2
Power Steering Leaksmoderate
3
HVAC Blend Door Actuatorsminor
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 AVALON VEHICLES; 2004 AND 2005 CAMRY, CAMRY SOLARA, HIGHLANDER, AND SIENNA VEHICLES, 2006 HIGHLANDER HYBRID; 2004 AND 2005 LEXUS ES330 AND RX330; AND 2006 LEXUS RX400H VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 1, 2004 THROUGH MARCH 31, 2005, EQUIPPED WITH THE 1MZ-FE OR 3MZ-FE ENGINE. THE AMOUNT OF ADHESIVE AGENT APPLIED BETWEEN THE OUTER RING AND THE TORSIONAL RUBBER DAMPER (INNER RING) IN THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY MAY BE INADEQUATE. IF THE ADHESIVE IS INSUFFICIENT, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE OUTER RING MAY BECOME MISALIGNED AND IT MAY NOT PROPERLY ROTATE WITH THE INNER RING, CAUSING NOISE AND/OR ILLUMINATION OF THE BATTERY DISCHARGE INDICATOR LIGHT.

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A FRONT PASSENGER POWER SEAT, WHEN INSTALLING CERTAIN REAR-FACING INFANT CHILD SEAT BASES ONTO THE SEAT WITH AN EXCESSIVELY HIGH SEATBELT TENSION, IT MAY BE POSSIBLE TO UNSEAT A COMPONENT CALLED THE BUCKLE STATUS SWITCH FROM THE SEAT BELT BUCKLE.

What breaks on the 2004 Toyota Camry?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Toyota Camry by Year

Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the Toyota Camry. Click any year for its full report.

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Relevant Products for Your 2004 Toyota Camry

Parts and accessories matched to your 2004 Toyota Camry

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Frequently Asked Questions

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