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Toyota Camry 2002-2006: General Information and Recommended Maintenance Schedule

Kick your 5th generation Camry into high gear with manufacturer suggested maintenance.

By Charlie Gaston - July 22, 2015

This article applies to the Toyota Camry (2002-2006).

So, you wish to know how to keep your fifth generation Camry vehicle on the road longer? Did you know most fifth gen Camry owners are achieving record-breaking mileage of between 250k and 400k? That's right! Through regularly scheduled maintenance and system checks, Camry owners across the country are driving longer distances, needing fewer repairs along the way. You won't need luck on your side to reach the 400,000-mile mark. However, you will need to grab your owner's manual and follow your regular maintenance schedule to the letter. Let's get started on what you should be doing now to keep your fifth gen Camry in top form for years to come.

Not Your Average Sedan

The fifth gen Toyota Camera is not your average sedan. Rated favorably for fuel economy, engine power and comfort, the Toyota Camry maintains its value after five years (and, incredibly, after 10 years), particularly when excellent maintenance practices are adhered to in either case. Expect to achieve 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway for an average MPG of 24. The fifth gen's 4-Cyl, 2.4 liter engine is highly responsive. In comparison to other similarly sized (and priced) sedans on the market, the Camry has incredible get-up-and-go and should be noted for its comfortable seating.

Figure 1. This is a 2002 Toyota Camry.

Safety Ratings

The Camry receives high marks by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for overall safety. Low risk of head, neck and leg injury are associated with the 5th gen Camry, and only small injuries when an occupant's head or body were pushed against a window or pillar, were reported for a range of crash test scenarios. The National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) awarded the 2002 Camry four stars for driver and passenger safety.

Figure 2. The fifth gen Camry is safe and dependable.

General Maintenance Schedule

Make sure to speak to a local Toyota dealer about changes in the performance of your fifth gen Camry, keeping current with your maintenance schedule and reporting any changes in performance as they occur. A drop in gas mileage could be the result of poorly inflated tires or high tread damage, while an engine that sputters, particularly when accompanied by a foul-smelling odor coming from the exhaust when the gas pedal is engaged, could be the result of a malfunctioning battery or bad spark plugs.

Here is a list of the general maintenance services you'll need to have performed on your 5th gen Camry:

  • Replace engine oil and filter ever 5K miles. It's recommended that you use a synthetic oil.
  • Check your transfer case and differential fluid every 15K miles.
  • Replace transmission fluid every 30K miles.
  • Rotate tires every 3-5K miles).
  • Inspect cooling system every 30K miles, changing out the main hose and fittings as needed.
  • Replace spark plugs every 30K miles.
  • Change timing belt and water pump at 100K miles.
  • Install a new fuel filter and have your engine oil replaced during your 100,000-miles visit.
  • Also during your 100,000-miles visit, have a mechanic pop the hood of your car and inspect your serpentine belt, engine mounts, idle air control valve and throttle body for wear.
  • Your brake system will also need to be thoroughly inspected at this time, and your power steering fluid will need to be replaced, along with your cabin air filter.
Figure 3. General maintenance is required of every vehicle on the market.

Common Questions

Should I expect major system failure after the 150,000-mile mark?

The biggest concern you'll have with a fifth gen Camry is the transmission. However, keep an eye on your transmission fluid level, draining dirty fluid as necessary, to maintain your transmission longer.

Does knowing my car's service history matter?

Yes. If you are ever uncertain about your car's service history, ask a local Toyota dealer to run your vehicle identification number (VIN) in their system. Obtaining your car's service record will be particularly helpful when maintaining a previously owned fifth gen Camry.

How do I increase fuel economy on a fifth gen Camry?

Your best bet is to clean your fuel filter at your next fill-up using a fuel filter cleaner. When confronted by stop-and-go traffic, it's recommended that you search for an alternate route or head over to a highway. Fifth gen Camry's achieve 29 MPG on the highway, which means your gas mileage will show an improvement.

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