The 1998 Toyota Camry comes in three trim levels. These comprise the higher-end Camry XLE, the mid-level Toyota Camry LE, and the Base Camry CE. They all came in a standard 4-cylinder, 2.2 liters 133 horsepower engine. The 1998 Toyota Camry has a fuel economy of about 20-30 miles for every gallon, which largely depends on the engine. Toyota intended to make the Camry a best-seller while putting aside its perennial winners Honda Accord and Toyota RAV4.
Camry owners are enthusiastic about the vehicle’s value considering it has similar mechanisms as the Lexus ES, which is quite expensive. Camry owners recommend this car thinking it is reliable and Fiat 500 PCM durable when properly maintained. This automobile has a smooth powertrain and is fast and comfortable for long drives, however not aesthetically appealing.
Some of the several changes that this Camry has witnessed include installed side impact airbags with a revamped snit-theft mechanism for every model. It has an excellent fuel economy that cuts significantly on the overall fuel cost you may consume. The Camry was again a top seller for 1998 due to its outstanding reputation.
Most Common 1998 Toyota Camry Problems
However, 1998 Toyota Camry is no exception to owners’ common car problems. These issues include lack of power, particularly the four-cylinder engine, faulty rare stabilizer bushings, transmission issues, overheating engine, and a freezing water pump, as discussed below:
* Transmission Problems
The 1998 Camry experienced several issues with its automatic transmission. It often hesitated when accelerating. There were oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets. The automatic transmission may fail to shift correctly when at high mileage.
Since transmission problems can be severe and costly, even before it fails, predictable behaviors will help you arrest the problem early enough. Its low shifting gears can make your vehicle less pleasurable when driving.
* Check Engine Light
The check engine light problem is an indication of several issues experienced by the 1998 Camry. In some instances, you must pull over at once to prevent damages, while in other cases, you need to tighten the gas cap when stopping. This precautionary measure will help reset the service engine light.
* Faulty Idle Air Control Valve
When the idle air control valve spoils, you will notice that the check engine light goes on, frequent engine stalling, and the rough engine idles. These symptoms should be addressed early enough for a replacement to be done in time, thus preventing further vehicle damage.
* Overheating Engine
Several reasons may cause engine temperatures to rise. However, the most common include hose, pump, coolant leak, failed thermostat, and a radiator fan. A bad coolant temperature sensor is likely to send a false signal to the computer and throw off the timing and fuel calculations.
* Failing Timing Belt
A broken timing belt causes the engine not to turn over. A broken timing belt will fail to cause the engine to ignite. If the problem is causing the engine not to ignite due to the timing belt breaking, it may result in other engine compartmental damages. In most cases, the timing belt breaks when the engine is still running.
* O2 Sensor Problems
Most car owners have made several complaints concerning the oxygen sensors to the 1998 Toyota Camry. Once the O2 sensor is faulty, the fuel combustion and fuel delivery system will be thrown away. A malfunctioning oxygen sensor will disrupt the air-fuel ratio blend. A reduction in your vehicle’s gas mileage will be experienced once a lot of fuel is put in the engine.
* Awkward Car Noises
The 1998 Toyota Camry produces a clicking and popping noise that seems to come from the vehicle’s front wheels, especially when on a bump. Typically, this popping noise is likely to stop when you begin to drive straight once more. Such noises indicate a damaged constant velocity. If it is not replaced, the joint is expected to become useless and impact its handling. A quiet ride becomes a thing of the past. But often, these car noise problems come with vehicle aging.
Conclusion
Generally, the 1998 Toyota Camry has recorded numerous advantages that supersede the disadvantages. However, the above-listed problems can compare cars, thus assisting a prospective buyer in the decision-making process and providing an excellent buyers guide.
This vehicle has low repair costs, primarily when maintained in good condition. You can consider selling your car for an upgraded version of the Toyota Camry. Installing an Engine Control Module (ECM) will be of great help in detecting mechanical problems.
FAQs
1. Is a 1998 Toyota Camry a good car?
The 1998 Toyota Camry is not quite exceptional compared to its competitors, such as the Ford Explorer and Honda Civic, when it comes to performance. However, this vehicle is dependable and durable, even over a long period. If properly maintained, the automobile will run effectively and smoothly daily regardless of the weather condition. Ensure you have a professional mechanic handling the vehicle and have the engine oil changed occasionally.
2. What year Camry to avoid?
There are three specific years that should not be considered for purchase under any circumstance. These include the 2009, 2008, and 2007 models. These automotive have an engine problem, and owning one will mean constant trips to the mechanic. These engine defects often manifest themselves as burning oil.
3. What is a 1998 Toyota Camry worth?
A used 1998 Toyota Camry has a price range of between $597 and $3,249, highly dependent on the vehicle’s condition, options, and mileage. Ensure you conduct proper due diligence through establishing the vehicles’ exact car values before purchase. These tips help car buyers reduce the maintenance and repair cost you will inevitably have to incur.
4. How many years does a Toyota Camry last?
A survey conducted on the consumer report indicates the Toyota Camry can cover more than 200,000 gas mileage when properly maintained and serviced. The survey scrutinized its reliability, ratings, and road test scores. Before purchasing any vehicle, whether brand new or used, request a test driving package, enabling you to identify any pre-existing problem and have it addressed. Also, invest more time learning about cars and read car news online or watch YouTube videos that speak on the same.