Are Camry Solaras reliable?

The Toyota Camry Solara is generally a dependable vehicle, offering reliability on par with its Camry coupe counterparts when properly maintained. However, reliability varies by generation and by how well the car has been cared for over time.

Produced from 1999 to 2008 in two generations, the Solara was offered as a practical coupe and a convertible, sharing much of Toyota’s engineering with the Camry. This article reviews reliability by generation, common issues, and maintenance practices to help potential buyers gauge long-term dependability.

Reliability by generation

First generation (1999–2003)

The original Camry Solara benefited from Toyota’s longstanding reliability and a straightforward drivetrain. Most owners report solid long-term durability with routine maintenance, good highway manners, and dependable daily performance. Like any aging vehicle, a subset of examples shows wear in components such as suspension parts, electrical fiddliness around power accessories, and climate-control systems as miles accumulate. Overall, well-maintained early Solaras are remembered for durable operation rather than chronic, widespread failures.

Second generation (2004–2008)

The second-generation Solara built on the Camry platform with refinements that generally improved reliability and refinement. In ownership surveys and reviews, these cars tend to retain their reliability well into higher mileages when cared for with regular service. As with many aging Toyotas, potential buyers should be attentive to age-related wear in suspension parts, cooling-system components, and the convertible-top mechanism on convertibles, which can require more frequent maintenance in some climates.

What makes the Solara reliable (and what can hold it back)

Below is a quick look at the core reliability factors reported by owners and reviewers, along with notable caveats for aging examples.

• Shared engineering with the Toyota Camry, a model with a strong track record for long-term durability


• Robust parts availability and a wide service network for maintenance and repairs


• Generally straightforward mechanicals in both coupe and convertible forms


• Age-related wear on typical components (suspension, brakes, cooling systems) as the cars approach higher mileages


• Convertible-top hardware and hydraulic systems in earlier convertibles can require attention on older models

In summary, the Solara’s reliability tends to track closely with the Camry’s, and well-maintained examples can offer many years of dependable service. Perform due diligence on maintenance history and current condition, especially for higher-mileage cars.

Maintenance and care to maximize reliability

Proactive upkeep is the best way to keep a Camry Solara dependable over time. The following maintenance practices are commonly recommended by technicians and owner communities to extend life and minimize surprises.

• Stick to the factory maintenance schedule for fluids, filters, and inspections


• Keep the cooling system in good order (radiator, hoses, water pump, thermostat) to prevent overheating


• Monitor and service the transmission as recommended, including fluid and filter changes if applicable


• Inspect suspension components regularly and address wear before it affects handling or comfort


• Pay attention to electrical accessories (windows, locks, alarms) and address any faults early


• For convertibles, maintain the top mechanism and seals to prevent leaks and water intrusion

Implementing these maintenance practices can help a Camry Solara remain reliable longer, with fewer unexpected trips to the shop.

Owner experiences and ratings

Owner surveys and automotive reliability analyses typically place Toyota models among the leaders for long-term dependability, and the Solara benefits from that heritage. While the Camry sedan often earns the highest reliability marks, the Solara generally receives similar praise for durability, with caveats tied to its age and the specific maintenance history of individual vehicles. Prospective buyers should review a detailed vehicle history, obtain a pre-purchase inspection, and look for signs of routine, timely maintenance.

Summary

Camry Solara reliability is solid overall, thanks to its Toyota heritage and shared engineering with the Camry. Reliability is strongest in well-maintained, lower-mileage examples; aging cars require attentive care to keep them dependable. For anyone considering a used Solara, prioritize a comprehensive inspection, verify service records, and be prepared for normal wear items common to aging mid-2000s Toyota convertibles and coupes.

What is the best year of the Toyota Solara?

The best Toyota Solara years are generally considered to be the second generation (2004–2008), with specific models like the 2004 and 2007 often highlighted for improvements and features. While the first generation (1999–2003) was also reliable, some V6 models in this period had issues with the manual transmission being discontinued and some engines in earlier models could be prone to sludge if maintenance was neglected.
 
Recommended years and why

• 2004: This year marked a redesign for the Solara, bringing a new look, an updated interior, and higher-quality materials. The 2004 V6 models offered features like 17-inch wheels, heated leather seats, and optional navigation, stability, and traction control. 
• 2007: The final model year saw significant updates, including a restyled front and rear, new head and tail lamps, and the addition of features like an MP3 CD player, satellite radio, Bluetooth, and tire-pressure monitoring system. 
• 2006: This model is frequently praised by owners for its reliability, low maintenance needs, and smooth performance. 
• 2003: This model year is also cited by drivers as being reliable and fun to drive, though the V6 manual transmission was discontinued this year. 

Things to consider for earlier models (1999–2003)

• Some earlier 2.4L engines were susceptible to "sludge" if oil changes were not performed frequently. 
• The manual transmission was discontinued on V6 models in 2003. 

What to look for when buying

• Check for maintenance records: Ensure that maintenance, especially oil changes, has been performed regularly, particularly for the 2.4L models. 
• Inspect the convertible top: On convertible models, check that the top mechanism functions smoothly and is in good condition. 
• Consider the V6: The V6 engine is known for its durability and provides a more powerful driving experience than the four-cylinder. 

Are Toyota Camry Solaras reliable?

First introduced in 1999 as a more sophisticated sister to the Camry family sedan, the Toyota Solara coupe and convertible have quietly enjoyed the reputation of most Toyota cars -- reliable, well built and inoffensive-looking.

Which Camry to stay away from?

You should stay away from the 2007–2014 Toyota Camry, particularly the 2007–2011 models with the 2.4L 2AZ-FE engine due to oil consumption issues, and the 2012–2014 models that had transmission and AC problems. The 2018–2019 models also had reports of transmission issues with their 8-speed automatics.
 
Specific model years to avoid and why

• 2007–2011: These models, especially those with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, are prone to excessive oil consumption due to a design flaw in the piston rings. This can lead to serious engine damage, like rod knock, if not maintained meticulously. 
• 2012–2014: These years experienced recurring problems with the automatic transmission, including slipping and torque converter issues. Owners also reported a musty smell from the AC system due to mold growth, and other issues with the AC compressor or heating. 
• 2018–2019: Some of these models had problems with the 8-speed automatic transmission, leading to funky shifting. 

What to consider instead
If you're looking for a reliable used Camry, focus on other model years like 2005–2006, 2015, or 2016–2017 models. You may also consider models from 2010 onwards, which had more reliable engines and safety features like standard stability control.

How long does a Toyota Camry Solara last?

A Toyota Solara can last for over 200,000 miles, and many owners report reaching 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. The actual lifespan depends heavily on regular maintenance, and specific issues like the V6 engine's timing belt and potential oil sludging require attention.
 
Factors influencing Solara life expectancy

• Proper maintenance is key: Consistent maintenance is the most crucial factor in achieving high mileage, with many owners reporting reaching over 200,000 or even 300,000 miles. 
• V6 engine considerations: The V6 engine requires a significant timing belt replacement every 90,000 miles. Additionally, avoid 10,000-mile oil change intervals, as some older models were prone to oil sludging under that schedule. 
• General reliability: The Solara's strong reputation for reliability, inherited from the Toyota Camry, contributes to its potential for a long life. 
• Common issues: While generally reliable, some common issues can affect longevity, such as dashboard cracking or failed oxygen sensors. Keeping up with these repairs can help. 

How to maximize your Solara's life

• Follow a strict maintenance schedule: Adhere to the recommended maintenance schedule in your owner's manual. 
• Use high-quality oil: Consider using synthetic oil to protect the engine.
• Address V6 specific needs: Be sure to get the timing belt replaced at the recommended interval and avoid excessively long oil change intervals. 
• Don't ignore small problems: Address issues like a "Check Engine" light promptly to prevent more significant problems down the road.