2006 is a good year for the Camry, with an outstanding 300,000 mile lifespan and no costly issues. Prices are high at $4,894 to $7,400, but the reliability is worth it.
2006 Toyota Camry: Quick Overview
- The 2006 Toyota Camry has great reliability with no major mechanical problems. Avoid the 2007–2009 models, where there are substantially more complaints.
- Three engine choices are available. The first is an efficient 4-cylinder, and the other two are V6s with less power than other sedans.
- Great fuel economy for a midsize car at 25 MPG.
- Safety ratings are okay, earning 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
- Consumer Reports found the 2006 Camry to be a capable and comfortable sedan with above-average owner satisfaction ratings.
- We recommend the 2006 Camry, which ranks 1st out of 15 midsize cars based on owner reviews. Long-lasting engines and low ownership costs make it a car to buy.
Expert Ratings
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2006 Toyota Camry Have?
There are significantly fewer problems on the Toyota Camry compared to other midsize cars from 2006, including the Accord and Fusion. The 2007 model has over 20 times the number of complaints, including engine problems, that are not fixed until 2010.
Interior problems, including speaker grills failing around 80,000 miles, are common. The parts wear down when exposed to UV light. The only fix is replacing the cover, which is easy to do at home, costing about $30.
Excessive oil consumption is a problem that shows up at around 160,000 miles. Toyota engines use more oil than other cars to protect components. The best solution is to check the oil regularly and top off as needed.
A clunking noise while turning is also common at 50,000 miles. A worn out ball joint usually causes the problem. Replacing the parts costs about $400, depending on local labor rates.
There are 5 recalls, an average amount for a car from 2006. The recalls include information labels and seat heater wiring. Most serious is the seat heater wiring, which can cause a fire.
How Much is the 2006 Toyota Camry Worth?
Blue book values on the 2006 Toyota Camry range from $4,894 to $7,400, which is more expensive than the Passat and Mazda6. When new, prices were $19,065 to $24,645. Depreciation is better than average, only losing 7% of its current value per year.
What Are the Models & Specs?
Standard is the entry-level model with:
- 15-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seats
- Power Locks
- Cruise Control
LE is a step up with:
- Keyless Entry
- Power Driver’s Seat
- Body Colored Exterior Mirrors
SE is next in the lineup, adding:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Unique Cloth Interior
- Sport Suspension
- Rear Spoiler
XLE is the luxury model and adds:
- 16-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Auto-Dimming Mirrors
- Sunroof
How Long Will the 2006 Toyota Camry Last?
A properly maintained 2006 Toyota Camry will last over 300,000 miles, which is one of the longest-lasting midsize cars. Repair Pal estimates regular annual maintenance costs to be $309 per year, which is cheaper than an Altima or Optima.
As a Camry ages and reaches 150,000 miles, there are some components which may need to be replaced. They include air conditioning expansion valves for $275, control arms costing $400, and mufflers which cost $775.
Very reliable, my car has only broken down once and that was my fault for not getting an issue checked out when I should have. The only recurring problem I have encountered with my car is that the windshield defroster does not work very well.
Until now, 2019 we do not had and have any problems with the Camry. The only thing we'll need to do is paint the front because has some spots because the heil other if this the car is in perfect shape.
Not that many problems. Just have to make sure to upkeep it. Do the oil change and the tune up and when it's time new tires.
It has been most reliable car I have ever owned. Only problem I had it with it was one year I needed to replace ac compressor. Other years were just normal services nothing major.
The 2006 Toyota Camry le is very reliable. A good car takes care of you if you take care of it! Gas is great!
Yes, very. I have replaced the alternator and water pump and brake pads, but that is all. The only other problem was issue with the locks. Overall, for 95k miles it has done very well.
Not at this time. Considering that the vehicle is 13 years old some issues may arise but, as of this moment all is good.
I have had no problems and judging by the performance so far, I do not anticipate any issues in the future. I have it serviced on a regular basis which helps to ensure the vehicle is reliable.
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is basic in the 2006 Toyota Camry and it’s the final year before a complete redesign with new features in 2007.
- Base technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system with 6 speakers.
- Optional upgrades include navigation, an 8-speaker JBL stereo system, and a 6-CD in-dash changer.
- Standard safety features include antilock brakes and air bags. Stability control is an available upgrade on vehicles with V6 engines.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance is not a strong point for the 2006 Camry. The most powerful engine takes the car from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 7.3 seconds.
- The base engine is a relatively weak 2.4L 4cylinder with 154 horsepower.
- Available on the LE and XLE models is an average-powered 3.0L V6 with 190 horsepower.
- Only found on the SE model is the most powerful 3.3L V6 with 210 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Camry?
The 2006 Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan similar in size to competitors including the Altima and Accord. Passenger room is great with more spacious back seats than any other midsize sedan. Cargo space is average, fitting 4 to 5 suitcases in the 16.7 cubic foot trunk.
How Does the 2006 Toyota Camry Compare to Other Cars?
The closest rival is the slightly more affordable Honda Accord. Where the Accord wins out is with a sportier driving experience, but the Camry is longer lasting. On the used market, the Camry is a better choice with fewer mechanical problems.
Another competitor is the Ford Fusion, which is also more affordable. The Fusion has a higher-quality interior, but the Camry has more technology available. Ownership costs are lower on the Camry, making it the winner between the two.
Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Toyota Camry a Good Car?
Yes, the 2006 Toyota Camry is a good car. A score of 4.4 out of 5 from 314 verified owner reviews, with no major mechanical issues make it easy to recommend.
Positives include the best reliability ratings, and a spacious comfortable cabin. Some downsides are less powerful engines than many rivals, and prices are higher on the used market.
Overall, 2006 is an exceptional year for the Camry, easily earning our recommendation. Avoid the redesigned 2007 model which has more problems that are not fixed until 2010.
Yes, the heating and a/c work really well and I have had no major issues with it. Since it is so old I am happily surprised to see it lasting this long, I hope that I can continue driving this car since it is really easy to drive.
Yes, the Camry is very good vehicle, we traveled all the us without problems or issues. Also the our Camry has the original paint, ac, leathers seats, motor and carpet. Everything is original and that is just prove that Toyota is the brand forever.
Yes it's super dependable. The parts are also super cheap and easy to access. Also the labor is easy so it's cheap.
The 2006 Toyota Camry has been a great car for me. Great gas mileage still and it may not feel like riding a new car but for 2006 the suspension is still great.
The 2005 Toyota Camry le is a great vehicle. It runs good on gas and has given me zero problems. This is great car to travel in!
It has been great. It has been very reliable, nice to drive. The gas mileage is good, not needed many repairs. Toyota makes quality vehicles.
It has been for me. I have found that it is a reliable brand, it can handle some serious mileage. I am very surprised at the performance of my car as I have always driven other vehicles made in the USA and never a foreign brand.
I bought it as a certified used vehicle and have never had a single issue with it. I have taken all day trips and it has performed perfectly as expected. Great gas mileage as well.