Looking at a 1996 Camry

[stangballer]

I'm looking at buying a 1996 Camry for my winter car/beater. I found one with 137 000 miles on it. It has the timing belt and water pump replaced already. Are their any other common problems with these cars that I should look for? Also is the timing belt necessary? Because I've been looking at another one and the guy said you don't need it. Thanks

[abew330]

engines with overhead camshafts have timing belts that have a limited life span
recommend intervals range from every 60,000 miles to every 105,000 miles

[Camry LE 94]

(Assuming it's a 4cyl), look look look for oil leaks! (under oil filter, which would be the oil cooler gasket) and just anywhere noticeable. check the oil after test driving it and letting the oil drip down into the pan when you shut it off. take the car uphill. if you can hear and feel solid power, the engine will have good compression. if it drags and struggles to accelerate within reason, the compression is probably not up to par with what it should feel and sound like.
also while driving it, upon acceleration from a red light, look in the rear-view mirror. if you see a large cloud of gray smoke billowing from your exhaust, there's a very good indication of a head gasket leak and you should not purchase this car.

also look at the area under where the car is usually parked. Do you see any types of oil spots?

[Retrospekt]

Oil leaks, suspension condition, oil pressure. Listen tor knocking noises over bumps. The car may not have that many miles on it (for a 96 Yota), but the struts, mounts, and bushings may all be bad already.

[stangballer]

Originally Posted by abew330

engines with overhead camshafts have timing belts that have a limited life span
recommend intervals range from every 60,000 miles to every 105,000 miles

Not all overhead cam engines have timing belts. I know modular ford motors have timing chains. But thanks guys. I think I'm going to go look at it this weekend and I hopefully will end up buying it.