2008 Toyota Camry Review: A Midsize Car With Several Issues

The 2008 Toyota Camry is more expensive than other midsize sedans at $6,282 to $9,402, having some engine problems. With more complaints than other years, 2008 is one to avoid with a shorter 200,000 mile lifespan.

2008 Toyota Camry: Quick Overview

• According to J.D. Power reliability ratings are great. We find more problems with oil consumption than other sedans, but there are some improvements from the 2007 model.
• Two engine choices are available including a weaker 4-cylinder and a large V6 with excellent power for the class.
• Fuel economy is good, tying for 3^rd place out of 13 midsize cars from 2008 with a combined rating of up to 25 miles per gallon.
• Safety ratings are excellent, getting a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
• The 2008 Toyota Camry ranks 4^th out of 13 midsize cars based on owner reviews. Although the Camry ranks highly, we recommend buyers look at another year since 2008 has a lot of problems and is not a good year for the car.

What Problems Does the 2008 Toyota Camry Have?

The 2008 Toyota Camry has an average number of complaints from owners compared to other midsize cars on the market. Serious improvements show up for the 2010 model year, making the extra $2,000 worth the cost.

Excessive oil consumption is the most common complaint from owners. Toyota engines frequently use more oil than other brands, but the 2008 Camry consumes even more. Some owners replace the pistons and rings to solve the problem, costing over $2,000. In other cases, the best course of action is to regularly check the oil to make sure the engine is full.

Melting dashboards are another problem owners encounter. In high-heat environments the plastic and leather components wear down, causing the dash to melt. There are two solutions to the problem including replacing the dash for about $1,000, or installing a dash cover for under $100.

Transmission problems, including a harsh downshift, are another frequent issue. Toyota made improvements for the 2008 model year to reduce widespread transmission problems from the 2007 model, but some still have issues. Usually replacing the shift solenoid for about $250 fixes the problem if the shifting is severe.

There are 8 recalls, which is worse than some other vehicles from the same year. The recalls include floor mats, accelerator pedals, load carrying labels, power window master switches, and seat heater wiring. Most serious are accelerator pedal issues, which can cause unintended acceleration.

How Much is the 2008 Toyota Camry Worth?

The 2008 Toyota Camry is more expensive than a lot of other midsize sedans from the same year with a price range of $6,282 to $9,402, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $18,570 to $28,120. The 2008 Camry continues to depreciate at about 10% per year, which is average for the class.

What Are the Models & Specs?

• Base is the entry-level model with 16-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, cruise control, power windows and mirrors, as well as a 6-speaker stereo system with AM/FM/CD playback and AUX connectivity.
• LE falls next in the lineup and has minor improvements including keyless entry, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
• SE focuses on performance with 17-inch alloy wheels, a sportier suspension, new front and rear bumpers, as well as a unique interior.
• XLE is the flagship luxury version with 16-inch alloy wheels, leather seating, heated front seats, reclining rear seats, dual-zone climate control, sunroof, wood accents, and a JBL stereo system with Bluetooth connectivity.

How Long Will the 2008 Toyota Camry Last?

A properly cared for 2008 Camry will last about 200,000 miles, which is average for a midsize sedan, but short for a Toyota. Repair Pal estimates the standard annual maintenance costs to be affordable for a midsize sedan at about $357 per year.

As the Camry ages and passes 100,000 miles, some expensive repairs come up. These include $2,000 for cylinder head replacements, steering rack replacements costing $1,200, and oxygen sensors which are about $300.

What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?

Technology is good in the 2008 Toyota Camry compared to some other midsize sedans from the same year since the infotainment system was updated for the 2007 model year.

• Base technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system with a 3.5mm AUX input jack, and 6-speakers.
• Optional upgrades include a 7-inch navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, and an 8-speaker JBL premium stereo system.
• Standard safety features include air bags, antilock brakes, and brake assist. Optional upgrades include stability control.

What Engine Options are Available?

Performance is better than average in the 2008 Toyota Camry compared to other cars in the same price range. The upgraded V6 engine is quick, and takes the car from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.5 seconds.

• The base engine is a 2.4L 4-cylinder with 158 horsepower.
• An optional upgrade is the 3.5L V6 which has 268 horsepower.

What Color Options are Available?

How Big is the Camry?

The 2008 Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan, similar in size to other vehicles in its class. Passenger room is excellent, with more legroom in the back seats than most other midsize sedans. The reclining rear seats found on the XLE model offer a level of comfort usually reserved for luxury cars. Cargo space is good as well, easily fitting 4 suitcases in the 15 cubic feet of room in the trunk.

How Does the 2008 Toyota Camry Compare to Other SUVs?

Ranking 4^th out of 13 midsize cars, based on owner reviews, the 2008 Toyota Camry is near the top of the class.

A close competitor in the same price range is the Honda Accord. The Accord offers a more engaging driving experience with a tighter steering feel, and more advanced technology. Where the Camry stands out is with slightly better reliability ratings, and a smoother suspension. 2008 was a bad year for both the Camry and Accord. Mechanical issues plagued both cars, making them a bad choice for buyers.

Another midsize rival is the Volkswagen Passat. Where the Passat wins out is with more cargo space in the hatchback model, and a higher quality interior. The Toyota, on the other hand, has lower ownership costs, and more optional technology. Overall, the Camry is a more affordable sedan to own, but both have some problems with reliability.

Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Toyota Camry a Good SUV?

No, the 2008 Toyota Camry is not a good car based on information including 346 verified owner reviews, and 17 government and automotive websites. Positives include a good amount of power from the V6 engine, and a spacious cabin with more passenger room than many rivals. Where the 2008 model loses some points is with a dull driving experience, and more engine problems than other years. Overall, the 2008 model year is one to avoid, and upgrading to the 2010 model for $2,000 more gives you better reliability.