(Beginner) Toyota 1999 Camry 4 cyl.

[eatmybunnies]

Hi guys,

I am 18 and know absolutely nothing about cars. I want to learn as much as I can about how to tune, repair, mod and stuff.

First of all I wanted to ask if a 1999 Camry is worth spending money on?

Secondly anyone know any good starter threads or sites where i can just learn the basic layout of the 1999 Camry car and engine?

Third what do I start off with? I do not really have anyone to help me, but I am good with figuring things out.

[Pauloil]

From cold start if you don't have hot air and gauge at 3pm position, then think about new thermostat. Learn how to change the oil and inspect cv boots. Think about a drain and fill of the tranny. Not a bad idea to measure mileage and see if car drives straight and has good safe tires. How many miles do you have? v6?

[blizz86]

to answer your question of is the car worth the money?
if you are using it for its intended purpose (commuter family car) then it works great at that: im getting 27 mpg combined, and have plenty of space if i need to move stuff around

any questions you may have about repair or maintenance can be answered in a haynes manual (one of the best investments for a car)

from what i know about the same car, you're gonna want to make sure all the components are working properly and if not have a tune up

if ur camry is driving like a boat then new struts might be a good idea as well
not too much power can be squeezed out of the 5s FE so good luck with that

[JohnGD]

Among the readings also check out:
Camry FAQ ------> READ FIRST -----> Comprehensive List of Gen 3/4 INFO and DIY

[eatmybunnies]

its a v4 drives perfect with 70k milage

[houra]

Originally Posted by eatmybunnies

its a v4 drives perfect with 70k milage

I4 not V4


http://www.ericthecarguy.com/videos.aspx

[pmesfun]

Yup take a look at EricTheCarGuy, I enjoy watching his videos. Scotty Kilmer and RealFixesRealFast are other good channels.

[Stillrunning]

Originally Posted by eatmybunnies

Hi guys,

First of all I wanted to ask if a 1999 Camry is worth spending money on?

No one can answer that for you without knowing the condition of the car and the mileage.

Third what do I start off with? I do not really have anyone to help me, but I am good with figuring things out.

Spend $21 on a Haynes Manual from a parts store.

[Jimnist]

Originally Posted by Stillrunning

Spend $21 on a Haynes Manual from a parts store.

^ That. Will be the best money you ever spend. Though, it'll be in your best interest to make friends with someone who knows a bit about cars. Some of the instructions in the book are there to make things idiotproof.

[bdy0003]

70K is practically a new car. As previously stated, its good to know what you want in a car. Since you're 18, you might want something reliable and reasonably gas efficient, so this really might be it.

For layout, this forum has tidbits here and there, you just need to use the stickies or the search fxn. As for guides, I personally have not used Haynes, Chilton is crap, so I'd go for the Toyota manual.

To start out, what is the history of the car? When were things last replaced? Was it just sitting there for 10 years?, etc...

[Stillrunning]

Originally Posted by bdy0003

70K is practically a new car.

Oops missed that part. Yea, worth the money unless it's been beaten up and not serviced in 70K.

As for guides, I personally have not used Haynes, Chilton is crap, so I'd go for the Toyota manual.

I have both the FSM and Haynes. The Haynes has a lot of useful info and tips and is a quick reference - for a beginner the Haynes is the place to start for basic stuff. As well I can't remember what the FSM cost but I think upwards of $150.00. It's a good investment but probably best with some knowledge first.

When I first started out working seriously on cars I used a Haynes exclusively to tear down a Honda engine and did pistons, crank bearings, head etc. Put it all back together and it started on first try - perfect.

[eatmybunnies]

To clear things up, yes an i4 my bad i was tired.
The car is extremely good condition. 70k miles driven most days to station and back.
It was checked out a week ago and mechanic said it was perfect.
I got new tires as well.

So I'm reading your responses and thank you btw!
but where do i get these guides? anyone know a site? or a store?
Also i do not want to do anything to heavy like tearing this engine to pieces because i use it everyday. and rebuilding takes time.

Anyone know where i can maybe buy the same engine? to see exactly how it works for cheap?

[Stillrunning]

Advance Auto, Auto Zone, O'Reilly's, etc.