The Good
Key advantages of the 2003 Toyota Camry include its legendary reliability and exceptional fuel efficiency, offering peace of mind and low running costs for practical buyers. Its comfortable, quiet cabin and smooth ride appeal emotionally, making daily commutes pleasant. Strong resale value and durable construction underscore its long-term value, solidifying its status as a smart purchase.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2003 Camry include possible oil sludge issues in V6 engines (if not regularly maintained), automatic transmission problems, and premature wear of front suspension components. Interior plastics can also show age, and the braking system may require more frequent attention than some rivals. Always check service history carefully.
2003 Toyota Camry: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.4-liter DOHC 16-valve VVT-i 4-cylinder: Standard on LE and SE.
- 3.0-liter DOHC 24-valve V6: Optional on LE, SE, and XLE.
- Horsepower:
- 4-cylinder: 157 hp @ 5600 rpm
- V6: 210 hp @ 5800 rpm
- Torque:
- 4-cylinder: 162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
- V6: 220 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
- Fuel Economy (EPA estimates):
- 4-cylinder (Automatic): 23 city / 32 highway mpg
- V6 (Automatic): 20 city / 28 highway mpg
- 0-60 mph Times (approximate):
- 4-cylinder: 8.5 - 9.0 seconds
- V6: 7.5 - 8.0 seconds
- Transmission:
- 4-cylinder: 5-speed manual (standard on SE, optional on LE), 4-speed automatic (optional on SE, standard on LE)
- V6: 4-speed automatic (standard)
- Towing Capacity:
- Generally not recommended or rated for significant towing. Small, light loads up to 1,000 lbs might be possible with specific equipment, but it's not designed for it.
- Trim-Level Features:
- LE (Base/Volume Trim): Standard features include air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel, a six-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo, and steel wheels with covers. Optional items often included alloy wheels and a power driver's seat.
- SE (Sport Trim): Adds a firmer suspension, unique sport seats, 16-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a chrome-tipped exhaust. It also often included fog lights and a 5-speed manual transmission as standard with the 4-cylinder.
- XLE (Luxury Trim): Features an upgraded JBL audio system, automatic climate control, woodgrain interior trim, a power driver's seat, remote keyless entry, full floor mats, and 16-inch alloy wheels. Leather upholstery and a power moonroof were common options. The V6 engine was often standard or a popular option on this top trim.
2003 Toyota Camry Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2003 |
Make | Toyota |
Model | Camry |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Wagon |
Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | Japan |
Manufacturing City | TOYOTA CITY |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | - |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
Overall Height | - |
Overall Length | - |
Overall Width | - |
Wheelbase Length | - |
Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
Engine | 2AZ-FE |
Engine Size | 2.4L |
Engine Cylinders | 4 |
Transmission | 4 Automatic |
Transmission Type | Automatic |
Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | - |
Steering Type | - |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
Invoice Price | - |
Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2003 Toyota Camry Have?
Another notable concern involves the automatic transmission. Some owners have reported harsh shifting, delayed engagement, or complete transmission failure, particularly as mileage increases. This issue is not universal but is significant enough to warrant a pre-purchase inspection of the transmission fluid and shift quality.
Common minor issues include premature wear of front suspension components such as struts, ball joints, and control arm bushings, leading to clunking noises or reduced ride comfort. Oxygen sensors (O2 sensors) are also known to fail, triggering "Check Engine" lights and potentially affecting fuel economy.
The 2003 model year specifically also saw some reports of issues with the power window regulators, where windows might get stuck or operate slowly. Dashboard cracks are also a cosmetic issue that can appear over time due to sun exposure.
Regarding recalls, the 2003 Camry had several, including for potential issues with the power window master switch (risk of fire) and an earlier recall for seat belt components. It's important to check the NHTSA website using the VIN for any outstanding recalls. Despite these specific points, the 2003 Camry generally holds up very well over the long term, with many examples exceeding 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
How long will the 2003 Toyota Camry last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were minimal by today's standards. Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) were standard on the V6 models and optional on 4-cylinder versions. Traction Control (TRAC) was also an option, primarily on V6 models, to help prevent wheelspin. Electronic Stability Control (VSC) was not widely available or common for this model year.
Safety features included front driver and passenger airbags as standard. Side-impact airbags for the front seats were an important optional safety upgrade, and full-length side curtain airbags were generally not available on this generation. Crumple zones and side-impact door beams were integrated into the body structure.
Crash-test ratings for the 2003 Toyota Camry were generally good.
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2003 Camry:
- Frontal Driver: 5 out of 5 stars
- Frontal Passenger: 5 out of 5 stars
- Side Driver (with optional side airbags): 4 out of 5 stars
- Side Rear Passenger (with optional side airbags): 4 out of 5 stars
- The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rated the 2003 Camry as "Good" in the frontal offset crash test, which was a strong showing for its time. However, it received a "Poor" rating for side impact protection without the optional side airbags, highlighting the importance of seeking models equipped with that feature.
What Colors Options are Available?
2003 Toyota Camry Prices and Market Value
2003 Toyota Camry Cost of Ownership
2003 Toyota Camry Fuel Efficiency
2003 Toyota Camry Safety Rating
NHTSA
2003 Toyota Camry Recalls & Defects
AIR Bags:side/Window
2003 Toyota Camry Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2003 Toyota Camry Compare to Other Wagon?
In terms of reliability, the Camry and Accord are often neck-and-neck, both setting industry benchmarks. The Altima and Mazda 6 are generally good but may not quite match the Camry's consistent longevity. The American counterparts, like the Ford Taurus of that era, typically lagged in long-term reliability.
Performance-wise, the V6 Camry offers solid, smooth power suitable for daily driving, though the Accord V6 often felt a bit sportier. The Altima (especially the 3.5L V6 SE) and Mazda 6 offered more engaging driving dynamics and slightly better acceleration for enthusiasts. The 4-cylinder Camry provides adequate but unexciting performance, similar to the Accord's base engine.
When it comes to features, the Camry XLE was well-appointed for its time, but rivals like the Accord EX-L and Altima SE also offered competitive levels of comfort and technology. The Mazda 6 often provided a slightly more upscale or sporty interior feel.
Price on the used market shows the Camry and Accord maintaining strong values, often commanding slightly higher prices than comparable Altimas or Mazda 6s due to their perceived reliability. American sedans of the era tend to be more affordable on the used market.
Recommendations for alternatives:
- Similar Alternatives: The 2003 Honda Accord is the Camry's strongest direct competitor, offering comparable reliability, efficiency, and a slightly sportier driving feel. It's an equally excellent choice.
- For more performance/driving engagement: The 2003 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE (if a manual transmission is desired) or the 2003 Mazda 6 offer a more spirited drive, though long-term reliability might be a hair below Camry/Accord standards.
- For a slightly lower budget: The 2003 Ford Taurus or Chevrolet Malibu can be found cheaper, but come with a higher risk of maintenance issues and lower resale value.
Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Toyota Camry a Good Wagon?
Look for well-maintained examples, ideally with the 4-cylinder engine for maximum simplicity and fuel economy, or a V6 that shows clear evidence of regular oil changes to mitigate sludge risks. The LE trim offers the best value, while the XLE provides more creature comforts. Avoid models with significant rust or neglected service records. Under these conditions, the 2003 Camry remains an outstanding choice for an affordable, long-lasting used car.