Vehicles / Toyota / Camry / 1996

1996 Toyota Camry

417 federal complaints (567 component records) · 2 recall campaigns on file · 2 federal investigations · 49 service bulletins · 1 Canadian recall
See all 42 model years of the Toyota Camry →
Engine
2.2L 4-cyl
Fuel
Regular
Drive
FWD
EPA economy
18 city / 25 hwy
Federal complaints
417
Recall campaigns
2
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Engine & cooling
87
Brakes
58
Speed control
51
Air bags
48
Steering
39
Electrical system
30
Suspension
29
Body & structure
28
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

When it fails

The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.

Vehicle age when the failure occurred

0 years old: 84 complaints01 years old: 26 complaints2 years old: 25 complaints3 years old: 22 complaints4 years old: 23 complaints5 years old: 22 complaints56 years old: 23 complaints7 years old: 31 complaints8 years old: 16 complaints9 years old: 8 complaints10 years old: 9 complaints1011 years old: 9 complaints12 years old: 5 complaints13 years old: 8 complaints14 years old: 6 complaints15 years old: 6 complaints1516 years old: 0 complaints17 years old: 3 complaints18 years old: 4 complaints19 years old: 6 complaints20+ years old: 3 complaints20+
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 339 of 417 complaints with a usable failure date.

Odometer when the failure occurred

0,000 - 20,000 miles: 7 complaints020,000 - 40,000 miles: 8 complaints40,000 - 60,000 miles: 8 complaints40k60,000 - 80,000 miles: 15 complaints80,000 - 100,000 miles: 10 complaints80k100,000 - 120,000 miles: 16 complaints120,000 - 140,000 miles: 10 complaints120k140,000 - 160,000 miles: 7 complaints160,000 - 180,000 miles: 3 complaints160k180,000 - 200,000 miles: 5 complaints200,000+ miles: 7 complaints200k+
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 96 of 417 complaints reporting a plausible odometer (500 to 500,000 miles; unverified).

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Engine & cooling

87 complaint records1 fire report
"CANNOT START ENGINE AND ENGINE STALLLING DUE TO IDLE SPPED CONTROL VALVE FAILURE. REPLACED ISC VALVE 5 TIMES SINCE 1997...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse engine & cooling parts in the directory →

Brakes

58 complaint records8 crash reports
"VEHICLE WAS IN A CRASH DUE TO BRAKE FAILURE. IT WAS RAINING, PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR AND VEHICLE WAS GOING DOWN HILL. *AK..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse brakes parts in the directory →

Speed control

51 complaint records1 fire report12 crash reports
"VEHICLE ACCUMULATED CARBON DEPOSITS . THE ENGINE IS TAKING A LONGER TIME TO WARM UP. DEALER REPLACED THE IAC VALVE. *AK..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse speed control parts in the directory →

Federal defect investigations

Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.

InvestigationStatusComponentSubject
DP02004
opened Apr 2002
closed Jun 2002Engine And Engine CoolingENGINE SEIZURE
PE01024
opened Jul 2001
closed Jan 2002SuspensionSUSPENSION COIL SPRING

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
99V307000SteeringVEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE STEERING WHEEL SET NUT MAY NOT HAVE BEEN SUFFICIENTLY TIGHTENED CAUSING STEERING VIBRATION AND LOOSENESS.Normally free
96V037000Exterior LightingTHE PLASTIC MATERIAL OF THE BULB HOLDERS OF THE REAR TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY DOES NOT HAVE SUFFICIENT HEAT RESISTANCE. WHEN THE BULB IS ILLUMINATED, THE RESULTING HIGH TEMPERATURE CAN CAUSE THE BULB HOLDER TO DEFORM.Normally free

Transport Canada recalls

Recalls issued under Canadian law for this model year, from Transport Canada's Vehicle Recalls Database. Matched by model name, so a Canadian-market variant may appear here that was sold under another name in the US. Units are Canadian vehicles affected.

RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
1996073
1996-05-14
Suspension1,831NOTE: CAMRY PLUS MODELS EQUIPPED WITH EXTRA VALUE PACKAGE INSTALLED AT PORT OF ENTRY. THE WHEEL LUG NUT SEATING SURFACES MAY BE IMPROPERLY MACHINED. AS A RESULT, THE WHEEL NUT TORQUE MAY NOT REMAIN CONSISTENT OVER TIME.

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
TSB003220
Aug 2023
Vehicle Speed ControlTSB: Replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) (see Figure 1) for most 1979 ?
TTT063620
Mar 2022
Service BrakesTT: Some Toyota vehicles installed with Toyota Complete Maintenance Care (TCMC) brake pads may exhibit a groan or squeak noise in various driving conditions
Toyota PRO19-02
Jan 2022
WheelsPOL: This consolidated Tire Warranty Guide contains the complete warranty terms for all brands of ground and spare tires currently in use by Toyota. This information must be kept near the point of vehicle sale and be available to any customer that requests it.
T-TT-0636-20 Rev
Mar 2021
Service BrakesTT: Some Toyota vehicles installed with Toyota Complete Maintenance Care (TCMC) brake pads may exhibit a groan or squeak noise in various driving conditions.
T-SB-0032-20 Rev
Feb 2021
EquipmentTSB: Replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) (see Figure 1) for most 1979 ?
Show 44 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
T-TT-0636-20
Dec 2020
Service BrakesTT: Some Toyota vehicles installed with Toyota Complete Maintenance Care (TCMC) brake pads may exhibit a groan or squeak noise in various driving conditions.
T-SB-0304-17 Obs
Apr 2020
EquipmentTSB: OBSOLETE NOTICE April 07, 2020: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0032-20. Replacement Certification Labels and VIN Plates
T-SB-0032-20
Apr 2020
EquipmentTSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin Nos. PG021-88, PG015-89, PG0015-90, PG002-91, PG002-93, PG005-97, PG007-01, PG007-07, PG006-01, PG004-97, T-SB-0144-08, and T-SB-0304-17.
PG004-97-Obsolet
Aug 2018
EquipmentTechnical Service Bulletin: OBSOLETE NOTICE: July 31, 2018: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0304-17.
PG006-01-Obsolet
Aug 2018
EquipmentTechnical Service Bulletin: OBSOLETE NOTICE: July 31, 2018: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0304-17.
T-SB-0304-17_Rev
Jul 2018
EquipmentTSB: REVISION NOTICE July 31, 2018 Rev2: ? The Supersession Notice has been updated. January 11, 2018 Rev1: ? The Supersession Notice has been updated. Any previous printed versions of this bulletin should be discarded.
T01_Dealer Packa
Jul 2018
EquipmentDealer Package: July 25,2018 The Parts Ordering section has been updated with new contact information. Toyota will initiate a Special Service Campaign to notify vehicle owners to affix a label that identifies the location of the On Board Diagnostic (OBD II) Data Link Connector...
T-SB-0304-17_Rev
Jan 2018
EquipmentTSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin Nos. PG021-88, PG015-89, PG0015-90, PG002-91, PG002-93, PG005-97, PG007-01, PG007-07, and T-SB-0144-08. Service Bulletin Nos.
T-SB-0144-08_Obs
Nov 2017
EquipmentTSB: OBSOLETE NOTICE November 21, 2017: This bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0304-17.
T-SB-0304-17
Oct 2017
StructureTSB: Vehicle replacement certification labels (the vinyl label installed on the driver door or door post) and VIN plates (the metal plate riveted to dashboard) may be available from Toyota, provided the request meets one of the criteria listed in this Service Bulletin.
TSB018217
Jan 2017
Electrical SystemTSB: SUPERSESSION NOTICE The information contained in this bulletin supersedes SB No. T-SB-0101-11. Applicability has been updated to include 2016 ? 2017 model year vehicles. Service Bulletin No. T-SB-0101-11 is Obsolete and any printed versions should be discarded.
Safety Recall an
Jul 2016
EquipmentUpdate on Technician Certification Requirements.
T-SB-0101-11 Rev
Apr 2015
EquipmentTSB: When servicing interior electrical switches and components, please note the precautions in this bulletin to avoid damaging electrical components and switches.
T-SB-0014-11 Rev
Oct 2014
Power TrainTSB: The purpose of this service bulletin is to provide information regarding the installation of the correct torque converter bolts during automatic transmission/transaxle assembly replacement.
T-SB-0134-14
Sep 2014
Power TrainTSB: The purpose of this bulletin is to provide precautions to follow when installing an automatic transmission/transaxle assembly to avoid MIL "ON" shifting issues and/or transmission damage.
T-TT-0010-10 Rev
May 2014
Back Over PreventionTech Tip: Low battery voltage can contribute to a MIL "ON" condition for P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit) and/or P0340 (Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit) due to inconsistent rotational speed of the engine's crankshaft.
T-TT-0132-11
Feb 2014
Service BrakesA key part to maintain the proper function and safe operation of the vehicle's braking system is to perform a visual inspection when installing brake pads, calipers, and discs.
T-TT-0213-13
Jan 2014
Air BagsToyota vehicles are equipped with Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS), including various airbags and in some models, seat belt pre-tensioners, to help reduce the risk of injury in a collision.
T-SB-0185-13
Dec 2013
VisibilityThe following procedures are recommended during routine maintenance or in the event of a customer concern for wiper performance.
TS-BO030-01 Obso
Dec 2013
Visibility/WiperThis bulletin is now obsolete. Please see T-SB-0185-13.
T-SB-0071-11 Rev
Oct 2013
Power TrainThe purpose of this service bulletin is to provide precautions to follow when installing an automatic transmission/transaxle assembly to avoid MIL ?ON,? shifting issues, and/or transmission damage.
T-SB-0141-13
Sep 2013
Parking BrakeSUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
T-TT-0213-13
Jan 2013
Air BagsToyota vehicles are equipped with SRS, including various airbags and in some models, seat belt pre-tensioners, to help reduce the risk of injury in a collision.
T-SB-0071-11
Jun 2011
Power TrainSUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
01005
Aug 2005
Power TrainA541E TRANSMISSION SOLENOID IDENTIFICATION. *TT
5026
May 2005
Service BrakesDIAGNOSTICS - ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (DENSO MADE). REPAIR MANUAL CORRECTION. 00400-RM445. 00400-RM956-U1. 00400-RM109-1U1. *TT
03704
Sep 2004
Engine And Engine CoolingENGINE BANK 1 AND BANK 2 A/F AND 02 IDENTIFICATION. VARIOUS TOYOTA MODELS. *TT
04004
Feb 2004
Unknown Or OtherOWNER RENOTIFICATION OF NON-COMPLETED SPECIAL SERVICE CAMPAIGNS AND LIMITED SERVICE CAMPAIGNS. *MR
BO02601
Oct 2001
Seat BeltsSUBJECT REGARDING SHOULDER BELT ANCHOR TAPE SET. *YD
T-PG007-01
May 2001
EquipmentReplacement vin plates.
AX00101
Mar 2001
StructureTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN REGARDING RETRO-FIT INTERNAL TRUNK RELEASE KITS. *TT
ST00200
May 2000
SteeringINFORMATION REGARDING A CHANGE IN THE STEERING WHEEL INSTALLATION NUT TORQUE SPECIFICATION. *MR
TC99219
Nov 1999
SteeringTOYOTA WILL INITIATE A SPEICAL SERVICE CAMPAIGN TO INSPECT AND TIGHTEN THE STEERING WHEEL SET NUT. *TT
AX00499
Mar 1999
EquipmentSUBJECT REGARDING TOYOTA DINGHY TOWING GUIDE. *TT
020499
Feb 1999
Engine And Engine CoolingINFORMATION REGARDING REVISED TIMING BELT TENSION SPRING. *TT
980812
Aug 1998
Service BrakesNEW FRONT BRAKE PADS ARE AVAILABLE TO REDUCE THE FRONT BRAKE GROAN NOISE. *YC
BR00398
Aug 1998
Service BrakesNEW FRONT BRAKE PADS ARE AVAILABLE TO REDUCE FRONT BRAKE GROAN NOISE, GRINDING NOISE, SQUEAK OR VIBRATION. *YC
DL00198
Mar 1998
Power TrainREPLACEMENT OF THE FRONT AXLE HUB NUT. *YC
970603
Jun 1997
Unknown Or OtherELIMINATING HUMMING NOISES. *YC
970523003/97
May 1997
EquipmentAN IMPROVED ALTERNATOR BELT ADJUSTING BAR AND A/C COMPRESSOR MAGNETIC CLUTCH ROTOR SUB-ASSEMBLY ARE BEING MADE AVAILABLE TO ELIMINATE COMPRESSOR KNOCKING NOISE AT IDLE. *YC
TC00197
Apr 1997
Power TrainA541E VALVE BODY GASKET NO.2. *JD
TC00197A
Apr 1997
Power TrainTHE SHAPE OF VALVE BODY GASKET NO.2 HAS BEEN CHANGED. *JD
EG00197
Jan 1997
Engine And Engine CoolingINTERAL ENGINE NOISE WHEN IDLING AT NORMAL OPERATING TEMPERATURE. *JD
T-PG002-91
Jan 1991
EquipmentProduct general information.

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Cold-start it yourself and listen for the first thirty seconds.Knocking, ticking that fades as it warms, or blue or white smoke on startup are the sounds of this vehicle's engine cluster. Check the oil level and the coolant color, and ask whether the engine or its head gaskets have ever been out.
  2. Brake hard once from speed on an empty road.A pull to one side, a pulsing pedal, a pedal that sinks at a stop, or an ABS light that stays lit are the brake complaints on this vehicle presenting themselves.
  3. Test the throttle response and the cruise control on an open road.A surge, a hang in engine speed after lifting off, or cruise that will not set or cancel cleanly are the speed-control complaints on this vehicle.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 2 recall campaigns on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Toyota Camry →