Toyota Camry Problems

It's almost an automatic thing these days to machine the disc rotors at the first change of pads and then replace them at the second pad change. The first skim is usually to smooth the surface so the pedal doesn't pulsate under braking, and shouldn't really affect the braking performance. The replacement of the discs is usually because they are worn out, and below the minimum thickness. Now this varies considerably from brand to brand, European brands generally have softer discs that wear faster than discs on Japanese brands like your mate's Toyota. Getting 400,000 km out of a set of discs is amazing.

It's not unusual for the clear coat to peal off plastic parts like your spoiler. The technology for painting plastic parts wasn't as well developed back when your car was built as it is now. While it is frustrating the car is now eight years old, and I doubt that you will get anywhere with this issue. If you want to pursue it get a report from an independent paint specialist such as Graeme Cuthbert (0422 444 335) and consider lodging a claim through the courts.

It's most likely a wheel imbalance problem. Take it to a reputable tyre dealer and have the wheels and tyres balanced.

There is nothing in particular to be concerned about; the Camry is generally a robust and reliable car. You did the right thing in having the auto transmission serviced, but that was 100,000 km ago, so I would have it serviced again. Keeping the transmission fluid fresh and not working the transmission too hard are the keys to keeping it alive in the long term.

Electrolyte evaporates as the battery warms up when being used and the vapour escapes from the vents and finds its way to the battery terminals where it becomes the crystalline deposit you see. The best way to clean it off is to use boiling water, as you are doing, and then apply a smear of petroleum jelly over the outside of the terminal and clamp once the clamp is tightened on the terminal to provide a protective shield.

Your car as the 2.2-litre four-cylinder engine, which can be converted to run on LPG with confidence, and there are kits available for it. It can also use 98-octane unleaded petrol, and Toyota says it can also use E10.

Impco has a certified kit for your car that is available through IMPCO installers. Check www.impco.com.au for your nearest installer or call 8788 1000. Typical price is around $3600.

It’s not something that has been regularly reported by Camry owners, but our readers might be holding back on us. I would suggest you swap tyres from side to side and see if that makes any difference. After that I would consult a suspension specialist and get their advice.