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2004 Toyota Camry Review: One of the Best Deals on the Used Car Market Today

Rating: 4.37
Based on 96 Owner Reviews
Simon A | March 31, 2025
The 2004 Toyota Camry is part of the fifth-generation Camry (2002-2006), a mid-size sedan known for its reliability and practicality. Key trims include the base LE, the sporty SE, and the luxurious XLE. Its popularity stems from its reputation for dependability, comfortable ride, and affordable ownership. The original pricing ranged roughly from $18,000 to $25,000, depending on the trim and options.
The Good

The 2004 Toyota Camry boasts exceptional reliability, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers. Its comfortable ride and spacious interior offer a pleasant driving experience. While not exhilarating, the performance is adequate for daily driving. It's an efficient and affordable vehicle appealing to both those seeking dependability and comfortable transportation.

The Bad

The 2004 Toyota Camry's weaknesses include somewhat bland styling and less engaging handling compared to some rivals. Potential issues to watch out for include oil sludge buildup in the 2.4L engine (if not properly maintained), and potential transmission problems in higher mileage examples. Rust can also be a concern in certain climates.

2004 Toyota Camry: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.4L 4-cylinder: Produces around 157 horsepower.
    • 3.0L V6: Produces around 192 horsepower.

  • Horsepower:
    • 2.4L: 157 hp
    • 3.0L: 192 hp

  • Fuel Economy: (Estimates may vary based on condition and driving habits)
    • 2.4L: Around 23 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
    • 3.0L: Around 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway

  • 0-60 Times: (Estimates)
    • 2.4L: Around 9-10 seconds
    • 3.0L: Around 7-8 seconds

  • Towing Capacity: Not Recommended for Towing.

  • Trim-Level Features:
    • LE: Base model; features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic sound system.
    • SE: Sportier trim; included sport-tuned suspension, alloy wheels, and often upgraded interior trim.
    • XLE: Luxury trim; featured leather upholstery, automatic climate control, premium sound system, and wood grain trim.

2004 Toyota Camry Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2004
Make Toyota
Model Camry
Trim -
Style -
Type Sedan
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 Automatic 4-Speed
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

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Specifications
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History
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Past Sale
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2004 Toyota Camry Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2004 Toyota Camry include potential oil sludge buildup in the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine if oil changes are not performed regularly with quality oil. This can lead to engine damage. Another concern is potential transmission issues, particularly in higher-mileage vehicles; symptoms include slipping or rough shifting. Rust can also be a factor in regions with harsh winters or coastal areas.

Recalls for the 2004 Toyota Camry varied but could include issues related to airbags (Takata recall), and potential fuel line corrosion. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN on the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website to see if there are any outstanding recalls.

Long-term reliability concerns generally revolve around the engine and transmission, as mentioned above. The longevity of other components, such as the suspension and electrical systems, depends heavily on maintenance and driving conditions. Proper maintenance is essential to mitigate these potential problems and ensure long-term reliability. Overall, while the Camry is generally reliable, addressing these known issues promptly is crucial.

How long will the 2004 Toyota Camry last?

A well-maintained 2004 Toyota Camry can easily reach 250,000 miles or more. Many owners report exceeding 300,000 miles with consistent maintenance. Average years of service can range from 15 to 20 years, depending on usage and care. Long-term durability is generally a strong point, but weaknesses emerge with age. Suspension components, such as struts and bushings, may require replacement. As mentioned previously, oil sludge in the 2.4L engine is a major concern if neglected. Transmission issues can also arise with age and high mileage. Keeping up with maintenance, including timely fluid changes and addressing minor repairs promptly, is essential to maximizing the Camry's lifespan.
Positive Owner Reviews
Nina
im just a 20 year old college student who knows absolutely nothing ab cars but man do i love this one, reliable and the way the dash lights up at night is the best. i dont like how busy new cars are, this one is spacious and perfect! plus i fit a mattress in the trunk
GodisReal
Just T-boned someone at fault at 55mph. Still here to type this, with minor injuries. Although the car is totaled everyone was safe priority
Buddy
This car is one of a kind. I bought a 2004 Camry in November 2003. It is now February 2021 and my car’s engine still purrs as if it’s brand new. The car is spacious and has incredible pickup. I sit comfortably high in the car and have a lot of leg and head room. The new Toyotas are uncomfortable and have no head room. My car has a CD player and a cassette player. Who cares? Nothing fancy. For 2003 it was great to have a CD player. Today’s cars have a lot of features but I love my 2004 Toyota!
Negative Owner Reviews
Brad
Car was used to commute back and forth 120 miles per day for work, so all are road miles. This car is very dependable and extremely efficient. Gas on the road is about 32 mpg.
halo
This Camry is not even SE as there are no Alloy Wheels, no Sunroof no Fog lights how is it possible its SE!

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2004 Toyota Camry's built-in tech and entertainment features were relatively basic for its time. Standard features included a CD player and AM/FM radio. Optional features included a cassette player, upgraded JBL sound system, and a multi-disc CD changer. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking available.

Safety features included standard front airbags and optional side airbags. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were available, but not standard on all trims. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) was not available on this model year.

Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) are available for the 2004 Camry. The Camry generally performed well in frontal and side impact tests. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also conducted crash tests, and results can be found on their website. Keep in mind that crash test ratings reflect the safety standards of that era.

Overall, the 2004 Camry offered a basic level of tech and safety features. Compared to modern vehicles, it lacks many of the advanced technologies that are now commonplace.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Absolutely Red
Black Sand Pearl
Super White
Silver Metallic
Lunar Mist Metallic
Desert Sand Metallic
Mystic Teal Mica
Intense Blue Pearl
Interior Colors
Charcoal Gray
Ivory
Light Charcoal

2004 Toyota Camry Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2004 Toyota Camry's prices ranged from approximately $18,000 for the base LE trim to around $25,000 for a fully equipped XLE. Current used market prices vary significantly depending on condition, mileage, and location. Expect to find them in the range of $3,000 to $8,000.

The Camry depreciated significantly over the years, but its reputation for reliability helps it retain some value. Factors affecting resale value include maintenance records, mileage, overall condition (rust-free is a plus), and the specific trim level. The V6 models and XLE trims generally command slightly higher prices than the base LE trim with the 4-cylinder engine.

2004 Toyota Camry Cost of Ownership

The 2004 Toyota Camry is generally considered economical to own. Insurance costs are typically low to moderate. Fuel costs are reasonable, especially with the 4-cylinder engine. Maintenance is relatively inexpensive due to the Camry's reliability and the availability of affordable parts. Repairs are also generally affordable. Long-term ownership costs are low compared to many other vehicles, making it a budget-friendly choice. However, neglecting maintenance can lead to more costly repairs down the road, so diligence is key.

2004 Toyota Camry Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2004 Toyota Camry Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

2004 Toyota Camry Recalls & Defects

AIR Bags:side/Window
Recall date 2004-07-13
Recall no. 04v346000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Vehicles Equipped With Curtain Shield AIR Bags (Csa), ONE or Both OF THE Curtain AIR Bags MAY BE Twisted Near THE Inflator DUE TO Improper Assembly.
Consequence IF This Occurs, THE CSA MAY NOT Deploy Rapidly Enough When Activated IN A Side Impact Collision. This MAY Result IN Failure TO Provide THE Intended Head Protection, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect THE Csas and Replace THE AIR BAG Assembly IF Necessary. THE Recall Began ON August 6, 2004. Owners Should Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes Customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Seat Belts:front:buckle Assembly
Recall date 2004-12-15
Recall no. 04v595000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Passenger Vehicles Equipped With A Front Passenger Power Seat, When Installing Certain Rear-Facing Infant Child Seat Bases Onto THE Seat With AN Excessively High Seatbelt Tension, IT MAY BE Possible TO Unseat A Component Called THE Buckle Status Switch From THE Seat Belt Buckle.
Consequence IF THE Switch Becomes Unseated, THE Front Passenger Occupant Classification System MAY Mistake THE Rear-Facing Child Restraint FOR AN Unbelted Adult Occupant, and MAY NOT Suppress THE Deployment OF THE Front Passenger Airbag.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger Seatbelt Buckle Status Switch. This Safety Improvement Campaign (Ssc 40m) Began ON December 20, 2004. Owners Should Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331 or Lexus AT 1-800-255-3987..
Notes This Action IS Deemed A Safety Improvement Campaign and IS NOT Being Conducted Under THE Safety Act.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Recall date 2011-11-09
Recall no. 11v539000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004 Avalon Vehicles; 2004 and 2005 Camry, Camry Solara, Highlander, and Sienna Vehicles, 2006 Highlander Hybrid; 2004 and 2005 Lexus Es330 and Rx330; and 2006 Lexus Rx400h Vehicles Manufactured From June 1, 2004 Through March 31, 2005, Equipped With THE 1mz-Fe or 3mz-Fe Engine. THE Amount OF Adhesive Agent Applied Between THE Outer Ring and THE Torsional Rubber Damper (Inner Ring) IN THE Crankshaft Pulley MAY BE Inadequate. IF THE Adhesive IS Insufficient, There IS A Possibility That THE Outer Ring MAY Become Misaligned and IT MAY NOT Properly Rotate With THE Inner Ring, Causing Noise And/Or Illumination OF THE Battery Discharge Indicator Light.
Consequence IN Some Cases, THE Belt FOR THE Power Steering Pump MAY Become Detached From THE Pulley Which Could Result IN A Loss OF Power Steering and A Sudden Increase IN Steering Effort, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Check THE Crankshaft Pulley TO Identify Whether IT WAS Produced BY THE U.s. Supplier. IF SO, THE Dealer Will Replace THE Pulley With A NEW ONE AT NO Charge. THE Safety Recall IS Expected TO Begin During Early January 2012. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .

2004 Toyota Camry Insurance

Insurance for a 2004 Toyota Camry is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2004 Toyota Camry Compare to Other Sedan?

Key rivals to the 2004 Toyota Camry included the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda 6, and Ford Taurus. In terms of reliability, the Camry and Accord were generally considered top choices. The Altima offered sportier handling, while the Taurus provided a larger interior. The Camry excelled in offering a balanced combination of reliability, comfort, and value.

Compared to the Accord, the Camry's styling was often perceived as more conservative. The Altima offered a more engaging driving experience but sacrificed some reliability. The Mazda 6 provided a more upscale interior and sharper handling but might not match the Camry's long-term dependability.

Alternatives to the 2004 Camry include the Honda Accord (similar reliability and features), Mazda 6 (sportier handling and styling), and potentially a Buick Century (if a larger, more comfort-oriented ride is desired, though reliability is a question mark). Depending on individual priorities, the Accord represents a similar alternative, while the Mazda 6 appeals to those valuing a more engaging driving experience. Consider a well-maintained Accord as a comparable alternative.

Ranks #155 Sedan

1 2023 Toyota Camry (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Accord (0.0★)
3 2023 Lexus ES (0.0★)
4 2024 Subaru Legacy (5.0★)
5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0★)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0★)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0★)
155 2004 Toyota Camry (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Toyota Camry a Good Sedan?

The 2004 Toyota Camry is an ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and practical used car. It's well-suited for individuals or families prioritizing dependability, comfortable transportation, and affordable ownership. It's worth buying if you find a well-maintained example with documented service history, particularly one where the oil sludge issue has been addressed, if applicable. Focus on lower-mileage examples and avoid those with significant rust. The LE and XLE trims offer different levels of features to suit various needs. Avoid expecting modern tech or sporty performance; instead, appreciate its inherent reliability and value as a dependable used vehicle.

2004 Toyota Camry Owner Reviews

4.37
Consumer Rating, Based on 96 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Tony on April 3, 2024

Toyota is The Best

My 2004 Toyota Camry 2.4L it’s been the best reliable car a ever had , originally purchased to fix the crank shaft sensor on it do to gears not shifting properly, and resale after that , but after fixing it my self , I ended up Loving it , it now has 280,000 miles and still running with 0 problems or lights on the dashboard, and for sure will go over 300 k miles , it’s just and AMAZING car.

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Nina on March 8, 2024

great if you love saving money

im just a 20 year old college student who knows absolutely nothing ab cars but man do i love this one, reliable and the way the dash lights up at night is the best. i dont like how busy new cars are, this one is spacious and perfect! plus i fit a mattress in the trunk

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Shane on March 4, 2024

Love my 04 Camry SE

This car is amazing I have SE with the 3.3 V6 and that engine out performed in everyway I thought it wouldn't not only would I recommend this car if you can find a 2004 SE with the 3.3 V6 buy it you won't regret it let me say one more thing it's fast😁

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GodisReal on October 5, 2022

Life saving car!!!

Just T-boned someone at fault at 55mph. Still here to type this, with minor injuries. Although the car is totaled everyone was safe priority

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Max on April 30, 2021

One of the best car that ever had

I bouth this 6 years ago for 7k, whit about, 148000 miles and now it got 255842 miles, no lights on dashboard, I just change the tires

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Buddy on February 20, 2021

Best car I ever had

This car is one of a kind. I bought a 2004 Camry in November 2003. It is now February 2021 and my car’s engine still purrs as if it’s brand new. The car is spacious and has incredible pickup. I sit comfortably high in the car and have a lot of leg and head room. The new Toyotas are uncomfortable and have no head room. My car has a CD player and a cassette player. Who cares? Nothing fancy. For 2003 it was great to have a CD player. Today’s cars have a lot of features but I love my 2004 Toyota!

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guy on January 5, 2021

most cool car i ever saw

Here are some adjectives for a new car: wildly successful, incredibly hot, truly splendid, spiffy, shiny, nice, loveliest, speedy, flashy, showy, expensive, immaculate, big, sleek, fancy, fabulous, gallant, gorgeous, fine, wonderful, beautiful, smart, sparkling, valuable, cheap, grand, bright, handsome, neat, successful.

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BAY BAY 1 on October 29, 2020

Unbeliable quality for 2004 car.

This car was for my grandson He immediately was impressed with the vehicle. He has expressed to others how please he was with his purchase experience.

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JuliaB on October 1, 2020

Best cruising buddy I ever owned.

This car met all my needs. It has huge leg room not only on the front seats but in the back as well. It has never gave me any reason to be disappointed or worried that it would not be able to handle anything. Driving the car gives the driver a safe, happy and bright experience. I would definitely recommend this to everyone.

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OwnerVehicle on September 23, 2020

LOVED THIS CAR!

This car met all my needs. I upgraded after having it for 5 years! My grandma had the vehicle before me. Always taken care of!

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Simon A

Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.