2004 Toyota Camry: engine overheating

Filed Mar 12, 2017 · Engine · 247,000 miles · MO

Coolant leak on rear of engine between the cylinder head & engine block seems like head bolts stripped from engine block causing mayor coolant loss there are cases reported tsb 01507, the federal safety agency #10021542

Filed Mar 24, 2014 · Engine · 90,000 miles · HI

We first noticed coolant leaking on our garage floor after our 20yr mechanic and trusted friend replaced our water pump. We took the car in to have him look at the problem and he told us we had a "pulled" head gasket. He said he could not do that type of work and referred us to another mechanic who pressure tested and ran other diagnostics before hoisting the car on the racks. Upon inspection he saw coolant dripping from the intake manifold and proceeded to remove and inspect that part of the engine. Eventually, the head and other parts to reveal the loose bolts with stripped threads. We believe this is a manufacturers defect and feel some compensation and restitution must be levied. Upon further research from different forums we have documented pages of similar complaints from across the nation. Please make our concerns heard. We currently have no car to drive and $ 0 money to purchase another vehicle.

Filed Nov 2, 2012 · Engine · 104,000 miles · FL

Tl* the contact owns a 2004 toyota camry. The contact stated that there was an abnormal splashing water noise sound coming from under the hood area. The check engine warning light was illuminated and the vehicle began to overheat. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was advised that the engine bolts were stripped, which allowed fluids to mix with the engine. The dealer advised the contact that the engine would have to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and the current mileages were 104,000. Updated 12/14/12*lj the consumer stated the mechanic the bolts could be retreaded, engine rebuilt, or to trade the vehicle in. None of the repairs are guaranteed to repair the vehicle. Updated 12/17/2012

Filed Oct 29, 2012 · Engine · 103,000 miles · FL

On oct 18, 2012, my car started to overheat. We had it towed to our mechanic. On friday, oct 19, 2012 our mechanic stated he could not fix it and looks like it is an engine coolant leak. He further stated we needed to take it to the dealership that we bought it from to confirm the engine was none repairable. On monday, oct 22, 2012, the service department called us and confirmed the bad news. Our 2004 camry 2.4l engine is leaking coolant inside the engine and the engine bolts are stripped. They gave us some options. The dealer could try to repair the bolts by retreading them (no guarantee it world work). Replace the engine (rebuilt and not guarantee it wouldn?t happen again). And finally, trade in the car (not enough to pay off my loan). After further research, this issue has been happening to camry since 2002. One post stated it was fixed with the 2004 models, but in 2004 the same engine is in the highlander and the camry. The highlander also has several posts to the same issue. When will toyota take responsibility for this problem and fix it without coming after the consumer! I have contacted toyota at 800‑331‑4331 and filed a complaint and was told the same thing the dealer told me, not their fault. I am really hoping the government takes these complaints and forces toyota to recall these cars and fix the issues.

Filed Jul 30, 2012 · Engine · 140,000 miles · SC

Head gasket screws are stripped. Engine lost coolant but no leak was evident. After numerous repairs to cooling system, eventually head gasket blew and had to replace the engine with a rebuilt one. Coolant loss continued with second engine. Radiator was replaced. Coolant loss continues with new radiator. Now we know that the head gasket screws are stripped, the original and only source of the leak. Design flaw causes stripped head bolts in this model.