New owner question.

[Joan]

Hi folks!
I've just bought a new '03 Camry LE with the 3.0 VVi V-6.
I pick it up next week. Can hardly wait. This will be a big change from my 13 year old 4-Runner.

I like to do some of my own maintainance, and I intend to buy the factory-issued repair manual. But until I can get it from the dealer, please tell me where the oil filter is located, and how easy is it to reach. I always change oil and filter in my cars twice as often as the factory recommends.

TIA for your responses. I hope I can contribute something to the Forum in the future.

[Silver Streak]

Welcome Joanie! How's Cha-chi doing these days? (Couldn't resist, sorry).

Congrats on your purchase...I have one as well, sans the VVTi. The oil filter is located at the front of the engine, just right below the exhaust manifold. It's just below that heat shield in the pic...I dunno why Toyota always hides their filters like that.

I dunno what kinda maintenance you're planning to do on a brand new 03 Camry, but you probably won't need factory service manuals for now...try getting a Haynes or Chiltons manual (not even sure if they have them out yet, but 10x cheaper.). They're pretty decent for the DIYer's...

Hope you enjoy the car!