New to me 1999 Camry - questions

[balingwire]

I just purchased a 4-cylinder 1999 Camry LE, automatic with 178,000 miles. It was a one-owner car, and so far, I have really been pleased with it. It's first tank of gas got me 30 mpg. It has a few things that need attention, though.

1. It probably needs shocks/struts. There is some clunking/knocking on bumpy roads. I know a lot of you like Tokico's and KYB's, but this is my gas-saving daily-driven commuter car, and I would like to limit costs. What is your take on shocks/struts such as Monroe and Gabriel from auto parts stores?

2. The timing belt and water pump were replaced at 168,000 miles. Are there any other things that I should watch for/do to increase longevity?

3. Currently, the car has the 14-in steel wheels and hubcaps and 195/70 tires, which look way too narrow. What's the widest tire that I can run without rubbing or dropping gas mileage? Is an upgrade to at least 15-in wheels advised?

I'm impressed with the car. It runs/idles smooth, shift great, and the air blows really cold. Good to be back in a Toyota. I had a 2001 Tacoma Doublecab 4WD a couple of years ago. Thanks for the help.

[deezeejoey]

I got a 98 I4 camry with 103000 miles and i hear that clunking over bumpy roads also.
My mechanic said that it's the struts but it's nothing to fret about. If i had the money i would go ahead and replace them.

My car has the Alloy wheels, (i think 15" is the standard for those) they're good.

[islandboy57]

You should probably check out the serpentine belt, along with the usual fluid changes. I just did a transmission fluid drain and refill (twice) on my gen 5.5 and the fluid looks much better on the dipstick - the added smoothness and responsiveness was the best part . If you can find some OEM rims (even if they're just steelies) I'd go with 205/65/15. That's the tire size on the V6 for the gen 4 (the V6 XLE gen 4.5 had 16" alloys) so I wouldn't expect any problems - hopefully someone else can chime in.