Used 1996 Toyota Camry Sedan Consumer Reviews

"Leak City" at 85,000

It developed a major transmisssion leak and rear main engine seal leak,head gasket leak at approx 90000 miles. These were very expensive repairs as the entire front subframe had to be removed,transmission dropped.Almost all seals and gaskets in engine have been replaced. Great riding car though and 'till this year, engine reliable.Extended warranty proved to be ambiguous.

Best Car I've Ever Owned

After my 93 Grand Am (which had 189,000 miles) was hit buy a drunk motorist, I bought a 96 Camry from my mother, with 130000 miles on it. And I feel spoiled in the Camry! Im sorry but my faithfulness to American cars ended very quickly once behind the wheel of the Toyota! This is one of the cars that could be driven over the bumpest roads without ever spilling a drop of your favorite coffee! The 11 year old V6 still competes very well on the road and can actually "peel out" reaching a top speed of 135 MPH!! The tire grip is outstanding despite the excess body lean (which I'm sure got addressed in newer Camrys). The car took some getting used to but I think it was well worth it!

Camry

My girlfriend and I have had our Camry v6 XLE for almost two years and all we have had to do is change the oil and the driver side cv axel. It drives great, handles great, has enough power to keep up with everybody, and its just fun.

Not a bad vehicle

I bough the car in florida for use in NYC. It had 82K miles at the time, 102K now. The car has been very reliable, just wear and tear, breaks, plugs, oil. However, the car is not suitable for use in the New York Metro area becuase the suspension cannot withstand the potholes. I have had to replace all engine mounts and now the front struts and strut mounts are gone, a 500 dollar job that I am not about to do becuase it is not a safety issue. A friend with a 97 camry has the same problem. So, I think the car is a great choice for a used vehcile, just realize that it will not come uscathed from NYC potholes.

Reliable and Boring

This Camry is a nice comfortable, reliable pretty boring car! I liked the dashboard design when I got it and I still do. The ride is a bit softer than I prefer. Not what I'd call sporty. But, this is a nice reliable vehicle except for one thing. The handling is completely unacceptable in the snow!

great car

If you are looking for a great used car that is reliable, well-built, great mileage, and nicely designed, then this is the car for you. I believe that the 1996 model has better looking lines than its successor and you cannot beat Toyota for making a superb automobile. Although the four cylinder is not a race car, it does provide adequate pep and acceleration for most driving situations. Great for the student, wife, or the dad who needs a second car to run around with the kids. Routine maintenance is all this car needs.

Love my Camry!

I purchased my Camry used in 1998. Fortunately, I also purchased an extended warrany because I, too, have had the same problems that Grillman has had with his Camry. The warranty paid for all the repairs. The car has been great for me. Previously, I had owned GM cars, but I am a full Toyota convert. Even with the repairs, it is better than any experience with GM. One other problem - the dealership I bought it from failed to mention it had been painted over the factory paint. It has completely oxidized and looks horrible.

Reliable but boring

This is a great car, especially if you're not a mechanic. Truly a very reliable car w/great gas mileage. Major things to watch out for is soft suspension and brakes.

1996 toyota camry

Start using 112K mileage, still running 135K w/satisfaction/better to change water pump+timing bult to cross 200K.

Almost at 200,000 miles!

I got this car in 2001 when it had ~106k miles. So, I've driven it just about 90k miles in 5 years. The major items I've replaced are as follows: struts, clutch, motor mounts, starter, harmonic balancer pulley, main engine seal, oil pan gasket, valve cover seal, spark plug o-rings (grommets), CV joints. Currently, the check engine light is on because the catalytic converter needs to be replaced ($1,200 at the dealer) and the rack-and-pinion steering system needs to be replaced ($700 at dealer) Overall, though, this car has been great! With the mileage it has, the seals and clutch repairs are not unexpected. However, the car is definitely starting to feel like a high-mileage ride..

Still driving it after 12 years

In May 1996 I bought this 4 cylinder Camry LE and added only the ABS as the only option. Now a little over 12 years later I am still driving her and she has been great. The original engine was replaced in June 2006 because some idiot decided to rev the engine past the red zone on the tachometer which resulted in it blowing up and shooting a piston through the oil pan but the guy owned up and paid to have a brand new engine from Japan installed and currently has 20,000 miles on it. The old engine did have a slight oil leak but now the new one will last at least 100K. Gas mileage is much better than my sister's 01 Accord V6 and even though the 4 is underpowered, I'll take the better gas any day

Great car for the money

great grocery getter

I have had this car for about 3 years and it has been great. There have been no real problems with it other than normal wear. I plan on keeping the car for a long time as long as it keeps running the way that it does. I have about 85,000 miles and it runs just great.

above average

This has ben a trouble free car with good maintenance. a good portion of the mileage has been highway mileage.

Awesome

My Camry

I have loved this car since I bought it. I was intending to drive it to 200,000 miles, but now I have been hit in a rearend collision and I will probably have to trade it in.

The Amazing Camry!!

This car has always been very reliable, with minimal maintenance probablems.

Toyota Reliability

Originally traded my T100 to get this car. I was saving to get Camry Solara. This car has been so reliable and economical I couldn't justify selling it after only having it one year. The only maintenance this vehicle has required was the 60,000 mile maintenance, oil changes and a new set of tires.

1996 TOYOTA CAMRY

VERY RELIABLE AND WORTH EVERY PENNY !!!!

Oh, what a feeling!

This Toyota is rolling right along. I bought it with 19,000 miles as a lease turn in. I now have 203,000 miles on it and still a daily driver. NO major repairs. Just batteries, tires, water pump and timing belt. It's one thing to pay the upfront cost, but then the maintenance cost over the years is where this car shines.

Staying in the family...

This car was my dad's for 9 years and then became mine. I put around 30,000 on it myself and it is now closing in on 190,000. I'm having the timing belt changed tomorrow along with the spark plugs and plug wires so I thought I'd check out what to expect in the car's future as far as repairs go and everyone's reviews are very encouraging. The car just keeps soldiering on year after year, it has completely convinced me to buy Toyota for my next vehicle...of course, if these reviews are any indication, I might not need a new one for quite a while.

My First Car

This was my first car and I have to say I was pleased with it. It ran well and always got me where I needed to go. A lot of room to and easy to maintain. The gas milage is great. I would drive at least 30 miles a day (thats a lot for a highschool senior) and I would only have to fill up every other week for $20. It was totalled when I was hit in the side, but it took a lot of impact and I came out completely safe.

Reliable but needs more soul!

This is acaully me parents car that i will get in 2 years. It in ok car with good passing power except when you need to merge. Good gas milage, about 21mpg. Comfy interior but exterior design is ugly! Handling is ok but has improved from the new michellen tires. Now has pretty good traction in the snow. ABS is a very nice feature in bad weather driving.

point A to B..

With a 4 cylinder engine, performance is reasonably good unless ur with 5 and the ac on. its very comfortable but there is a lot of roll during cornering. i am driving an used one in average condition, but it is very reliable. the engine works very well with the transmission. not so fuel efficient, gived me 19-21 mpg in the city. 24-26 on the highway.

value, reliability and performance

This car is the best car I have ever owned. It is powerful, fun to drive, great gas mileage for a V6, reliable. I have 100K miles, and look forward to keeping it till 300K miles.

96 camry

the best car i ever owned, better than the honda accord.

Gas Saver & Builded to Last

Got this car with 116,000 on it. Paid 2800.00.The same day the car overheated. Keep the car anyway. Changed the head block, radiator, water pump and most of the cooling system. Since it has been the Dream Car, seriously. Just regular serviced: change oil & filter. Great with gas and also very reliable. If you need a cheap car, make sure you get one that lasts. And I believe the Camry fits this description, without hypes.

1996 Camry-Great Ride,Always Reliable

I bought it in l997 and it has given me 5 years of good riding, reliability,low and inexpensive maintenance and fun to drive. It still looks good and has alot of life left. Highly recommend.

Nice Car

I love my Camry V6 XLE. It is and has been a great reliable car. Since owning it, I have had to minor maintenance but nothing to bad and it is all worth it to keep my car running like new.

Car salesman's review

After 27 years in the car business, I have the pleasure to own & drive one of the finest built mid-size sedans made. I bought the car with 77000 miles, replaced the timing belt,water pump, drive belts and tires, and have thorughly enjoyed the car. I consistently average over 30+ mpg. The suspension could be a little firmer,but a very nice touring car.

Above Reproach

From a reliability/quality standpoint, this car has been above reproach. Haven't even had to replace the brakes (78K miles so far). Every thing has always worked. Never had to do anything but change the oil and do scheduled service. Could use more power, but my wife doesn't care (she's the primary driver). If I were to buy one for myself, I'd have a V6. The Camry's predecessor in our household was a Jetta (also purchased new). I will never never never go back!

For sale

The car has great handling, comfy, very well built, and fun to drive. To bad i have to sell it.

Got the feeling?

On my 96 camry i had to replace the charcoal canister 2x in 2 years. i feel as though the camry is not as reliable as one would expect from toyota. Also the brakes on the LE aren't that great either because of the disc/drum setup, you have to plan ahead to make a smooth stop or else there will be excessive nosedive as well as the car stopping to a jerking motion. Acceleration with the 4cyl runs out of pep after 0-40mph. this car isn't made to go fast but it is a good commuter cruiser car. Not intended for those with a lead foot.

camry 96

One of the best reliable cars i have ever driven.

impressive vehicle

I’ve owned this Camry since 1996 and it has been extremely reliable. I love this car.

great car

Purchased 2 years ago with 112k miles. Now with 136k miles, engine and transmission still runs great. Powerband and Gear ratio are where they should be. ECT works like a dream. Throttle response is great and engine is quiet. Handles awesome with Bridgestone Turanza tires. Gas mileage around 23mpg in the city, 30mpg on the highway with a gentle foot. Low maintenance costs. No major problems with this 8 year old car. Keep it well oiled and it wont give you any trouble.

Camry is a classic

Had the car 4 years and still drives like the day I bought it. V6 has plenty of power and transmission is silky smooth. No problems at all at 110,000 km's, except power antenna.

Toyota Quality

180,000 miles and still going strong...this car has had no major maintenance (only replaced brakes, battery, and alternator).

College Commuter

As a college student I wanted a car that was reliable and could handle the commute to and from school, 400+ miles a week. My 96 Camry has done all that and more. Although the gas mileage is not as high as some people seem to get, I can still get over 420 miles per tank. Although there have been some repairs, she's still going. I came close to totalling her last winter when I wrecked but I walked away with no bumps, bruises or scrapes. We chose to get he repaired and she's running better than ever. Safety and reliability are great! She's close to 100k miles now and I'm sure she'll be around for many more.

awesome

The car now has 151,000 miles on it and the thing runs like new. I've changed fluids and plugs and timing belt, the brakes went until 130,000 miles before I had to change them! I've also changed the shocks and that's it. The car looks like new in and out! It has never been to the dealer for anything besides the belt! I have driven the new (2004) camry and they are not even close to the build quality of the 96? The brakes suck and the 2004 had more wind noise and rattles than my 96? This was a 2004 car with 2,400 miles vs a 96 with 151,000! The highlander is my next purchase. I'm keeping my camry forever, it might last that long!!!!

Great Car

Great car. Rides quitely. Very reliable. This is my wife's car and it has served us well

Bullet Proof Car

We have owned this car since 1998. Bought it with 26K miles and now have 133K in Oct 2004. My wife put it into a ditch 9-11-01 by accident and dented the compressor and radiator...it has been to the shop for this accident ZERO times! I recently ran over a concrete barrier avoiding a crossing SUV...ZERO damage. The sound of the doors closing is still solid as the day we bought it. I had to replace the thermostat at 125K. We had the water pump go out at 40K and it was replaced under warranty. Brakes were replaced around 115K. Great vehicle that is used solely as a daily commuter for a round trip of 40 miles...and still gets ~29mpg!!!

Amazing Car!

This is one of the best cars ever made, period. The engine is bulletproof, quite, and pretty responsive for being as economical as it is. I averaged 35 on the highway! It has the perfect amount of interior room, the way it is laid out is perfect, and it has a very roomy trunk. I was very surprised at how great the factory speakers sounded when I swapped out the original cassette player for an Aiwa CD player. I sold this car with just over 160,000 miles on it, and it still ran and drove just as well, if not better than most newer cars I have driven. I only sold it because I wanted stick. I wish I hadn't sold it!

Don't BUY

I got this car from my sister at 160k and it dies at 185k. It's a horrible car. I had to replace the following 1. timing belt and water pump 2. front left brake, rotor, caliper, axle 3. engine mounts (top and bottom) 4. window motor 5. door handle 6. paint job. The car had numerous more problems. My Toyota celica 1992 did better. I wish I had kept it.

Big problems cropping up

I purchased my Camry new in 1996 and it's been pretty solid until this year. It developed a major transmisssion leak and rear main engine seal leak at 85000 miles. This is a very expensive repair as the entire front subframe had to be removed to fix the leaks. Now the steering rack is leaking and this is another $500 repair. So much for Toyota QUALITY and RELIABILTY. No vehicle with this mileage should have these problems. I tried to get Toyota to pick up some of the cost for these repairs and they basically blew me off. This is my last Toyota.

Quality and Reliability? Think Again.

I bought this oh so reliable Camry in March 2010 with only 96k miles. I was thinking this car would at least run to 200k or maybe even 300k, but I found out it won't even make it to 130. I have 123 on the clock now, and in the time I had it, I poured over $6500 in repairs. A rebuilt transmission/engine, faulty airbag module, two broken window motors, and a new gas tank. The transmission went out at 100k, and the engine went out at 103k. Now with this "new" engine, it loves to stall at red lights. Not really helpful if I'm stuck on a grade in traffic. Also, the interior quality sucks. My door panels are all cracking and falling off because of weakened clips. Thats quality for ya!

Buyer Beware

My engine sludged up badly, which is a common problem with many toyota models, and the public is unaware for the most part. Many camry and other model owners have had their engines seize up. It was a miracle that mine didn't fail, and now I only use fully synthetic oil in it, which better resists the high heat in these engines. This is definitely my last toyota.

Camry Great NEW - SO SO Used

I bought a 96 Camry brand new and sold it Aug 2005 with 45,000 miles. Never hit, paint/interior perfect. The resale value of $5,500 is great for a 9 year old car. However, the car had some repairs, the motormounts went, cracking the exhaust pipe, the flimsy door handle cracked off in the cold and the drivers seat belt stopped working. Now at 60,000 miles it will need a timing belt, tune up plus the 60,000 binding U joint camry defect and in a few years an expensive exhaust and strut issue. Camrys are great, but don't believe the hype, they break a lot less than a similar american car, but with the added price and expensive parts they are not a good used car choice.

incredible

Have had Corolla and Mazda GLC, and neither was as reliable as this car. In ten years I've replaced tires, brakes, batteries, a starter and the hydraulic drive things and that's it.

cost of my car

very reliable. economical in fuel. fast and dependable.