The Best Used Car Ever Made? 2004 Toyota Camry Review & Buy

The 2004 Toyota Camry: A Top-Tier Used Vehicle

• 💡 The 2004 Toyota Camry, specifically the 2.4L with variable valve timing, is highlighted as potentially the best Camry ever made for longevity and reliability.
• 🔑 Unlike later models, the '04 does not suffer from oil burning issues due to superior piston ring technology used that year.
• 🚗 With around 140,000 miles, this particular Camry is not burning oil and demonstrates the model's potential for long-term use.

Key Components and Maintenance

• 🛠️ Recent strut replacement with OEM parts has significantly improved ride quality and control.
• ⚠️ A worn dog bone mount causes engine jerking on startup but is an inexpensive and easy aftermarket fix.
• 🔋 The original equipment alternator and radiator are still functioning, with the only common wear item being the durable battery.

Steering and Rust Resistance

• 🔊 A clunking noise when turning the steering wheel is attributed to a slightly worn intermediate steering shaft, which is safe to drive but may require replacement if play increases significantly.
• 🛡️ Despite living in Massachusetts, the car shows no signs of rust due to Toyota's excellent factory corrosion coating on the unibody construction.

Diagnostic Scan and Performance

• 💻 A Mukar A92BT scan tool reveals zero trouble codes on the 21-year-old Camry with nearly 140,000 miles.
• ✅ The fuel-air equivalency ratio is nearly perfect, indicating excellent engine performance for its age.
• 🎶 The car still features a functional CD player and tape deck, and the transmission shifts smoothly, performing almost like new.

Verdict and Electric Vehicle Comparison

• ✅ The verdict is to keep the car, as it's a safe, reliable, and inexpensive vehicle, especially for a younger driver.
• 📉 The primary downside is its age, making it susceptible to being totaled in minor accidents, and its low insurance value.
• ⚡ In contrast, the video discusses the high cost of public EV charging in the UK and US, often being two to five times more expensive than home charging due to profit motives and surge pricing.