Summary
What Edmunds.com says
It won't win any design awards or run circles around its competitors, but when it comes to practicality, value and refinement, few midsize sedans can top the 2004 Toyota Camry.
Pros
Roomy, comfortable, plenty of safety and luxury features, high resale value, strong reputation for reliability.
Cons
Premium optional features are pricey, V6 isn't as powerful as others in the class.
What's New for 2004
For the 2004 Toyota Camry, a new 3.3-liter V6 is standard on SE V6 models. Relative to last year's 3.0-liter V6, this engine offers 33 more horsepower and an additional 31 pound-feet of torque, boosting ratings to 225 and 240, respectively. Fortunately, Toyota has also boosted the 3.0-liter engine's output -- it now makes 210 hp and 220 lb-ft of torque in V6-equipped LE and XLE models. Both V6 engines come standard with a five-speed automatic transmission this year. In other news, a new trim has been introduced; the Limited Edition Camry comes in an exclusive crystal-white color, and offers a unique front grille, standard foglamps and champagne-color exterior badging.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
Problem
Vehicle
2004 Toyota Camry LE 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
Review
Steering column has begun to click when I turn. Not sure what the problem is. As the Toyota service mechanic told me, not to worry this happens to all Camry's. When AC is on idle problems occur when I start to slow down. It feels like the car is about to shut off. When I come home from work around 5pm. I do not use my car until the next day which is around 8:30am. Car feels like not turning on as if it was parked for a few months. It might be the battery.
Favorite Features
1. Great on Gas 2. Comfortable
Suggested Improvements
Toyotas are Very Reliable
Vehicle
2004 Toyota Camry LE 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
Review
I'm a 30-year owner of Toyota--had a 1981 Toyota Corona for 16 years and sold it to a friend who drove it another three years before trading it in. I had a lovely 1998 Toyota Camry -- only problem before sold it was getting an oil leak stopped--it was costly to get to, but the part was cheap to fix, labor was excessive due to how hard it was to get to. Had a Buick in 2005, and was really glad when purchased this 2004 Camry in 2007 with only 9,000 miles on it. Car has a popping sound when turn wheel to park in garage at night. Am told if it bothers me, labor cost to get to part is about $250; it's not bothering me that much yet. Was in an accident in 1988 Camry; it saved my life I think.
Favorite Features
Recirculator in the cabin; didn't have this in the Buick I had for a short time in 2005; important to me since I have problems breathing the outside air of other vehicles that don't comply with emissions and older vehicles still on the road. Like the quiet ride on the highway trips. Favorite car!
Suggested Improvements
Tires are not the best on these cars; can never expect to get the miles on them that the manufacturer claims. Since I bought in 2007, watching for any dryness on the rims for safety sake. Currently have about 29,000 miles on the car. First owner drove very little before he passed and son sold it.
Thumbs up Toyota
Vehicle
2004 Toyota Camry LE 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
Review
Hi folks I just wanted you all to know that when Toyota built this car they did it right with crashes. My 18 yr old was in a rollover, it rolled three times and she walked away with 6 stitches in her left hand and the inside was unharmed. The outside however did what it was designed to do, it broke away from the driver. Thank you Toyota for a well made car. I will be looking for a new one just like this one.
Favorite Features
This car was a good buy for my family and me. I also like the large opening of the trunk.
Suggested Improvements
None keep up the good work
2004 Totyota Camry Beware
Vehicle
2004 Toyota Camry LE 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
Review
I started experiencing shifting problems, but the dealer couldn't fix it. While turning on a busy 4 lane highway, the transmission went out. I do not abuse this car (I am too old to beat any car up). Now I have a $4000 bill for a new transmission. I have found out that this has been a problem for other owners but Toyota will not acknowledge or take car of their problems. Other than that the motor ran well and I got good mileage, but I would never buy another one.
Favorite Features
Suggested Improvements
better transmissions
Cool Camry
Vehicle
2004 Toyota Camry LE 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
Review
I bought the car 9 months ago with 34,000 miles. It now has 68,900. So far I have just had to replace the front brake pads. It does have a couple of rattles in the dash that I can't find. I turn up the radio and that takes care of that. The paint job could use a little improvement no shine, dull. The sunroof has a wind whistle and I have to tap the close button and it closes all the way. No leaks so far. Stinky smell coming from the AC vents. A trip to the dealer for the AC refresher treatment cured that little problem. My Camry has the 4 banger and gets around 24/26 city and 28/34 highway. I have a lead foot so this is good. I also like the fact that it has a time chain instead of a belt.
Favorite Features
Great fuel economy. Quick pick up. Easy to drive and a great sound system.
Suggested Improvements
Paint job my biggest complaint. Cannot get it to shine. Paint looks flat. I've had it clay barred and had high speed wax job, nothing helps. Next step is to have it repainted a high gloss Chevrolet white.
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