Checklist: 5th gen Toyota Camry 2002–2006

What to look for on this generation, worst first. Tick each line as you check it.

The inspection sheet: mark up every panel, what is underneath and how it drives.

Walk away if 1

Any one of these is reason enough to leave the car where it is.

Stripped head bolt threads in the 2.4L All yearsLook for coolant loss and for coolant at the back of the engine where the head meets the block, and ask about any overheating or a head bolt thread repair. Owners' reports (unofficial)

Known problems, and how to check for each.

Engine oil sludge, 2002 V6Look under the oil filler cap for sludge, watch for blue smoke at start-up, and ask for the oil change records. Work Truck Online, ConsumerAffairs

Recalls filed for these model years, newest first. Not every car is covered; check the vehicle identification number with NHTSA.

Recall 11V539000 2004–2005The crankshaft pulley may lack adhesive, so its outer ring can slip, causing noise or a battery warning light. Ask for proof the recall work was done. NHTSA
Recall 05V539000 2006The tire and loading placard gives the wrong spare tire size. Ask for proof the recall work was done. NHTSA
Recall 04V595000 2004–2005Fitting some rear-facing infant seat bases with a very tight belt can unseat the buckle's status switch. Ask for proof the recall work was done. NHTSA
Recall 04V346000 2002–2004One or both curtain airbags may be twisted near the inflator. Ask for proof the recall work was done. NHTSA
Recall 01V372000 2002The bottom of the driver's airbag cover can tear away when the airbag deploys. Ask for proof the recall work was done. NHTSA
Recall 01V306000 2002The passenger front airbag may not deploy fully in a crash. Ask for proof the recall work was done. NHTSA

What owners and the press say to steer clear of.

2002SlashGear names the 2002 as the 5th gen year to avoid, with over 1,000 complaints and a warning badge from CarComplaints.com. CarComplaints.com's top problems for it are transmission failure, stripped head bolts and overheating. SlashGear, owners' reports (unofficial)

The boxes are for you: nothing you tick is sent or kept.