To Buy or Not to Buy a Toyota Camry This Year

The media and the Toyota company itself have greatly impacted whether to buy or not to buy a Toyota Camry. The Toyota company worked hard to establish its place in the automobile market, however, after hearing that recalled autos are still causing accidents, I believe drivers must consider the safety of themselves and others when considering whether or not to buy a Toyota Camry.

The following seven reasons explain why I would not buy a Toyota Camry this year.

[Other drivers may choose these automobiles and be satisfied driving them thousands of miles.]

1. Recall
At first the recall had no big impact on me. Toyota has been a very reputable company and we all know the media loves issues. Now we learn that Toyota drivers are still having the same problems after taking their cars in to their dealers for the recall. I am concerned about the safety of Toyota cars. I expect the car I drive to be as safe as possible for myself and others.

2. Warranty
Compared to the Hyundai Sonata, the Camry has a 36 month, 36,000 mile warranty. The Hyundai Sonata has a 60 month, 60,000 mile warranty. I would be driving the car more than three years, so would opt with the longer warranty.

3. Rear Vision
The head rests of the Toyota Camry hinder vision to the rear. Because I am short, good vision on all sides is very important to me.

4. Price
Of course any automobile can be purchased in a variety of price ranges. If the owner wishes to have more bells and whistles, the car will likely be more expensive. However, with the current recall situation, Toyota could be more willing to wheel and deal. They were not. Prices, depending upon options, run from $20,000 for bare minimum to nearly $40,000.

5. Options and/or upgrades
I found that options available on other cars, such as the Hyundai Sonata, were available in the Toyota Camry. However, these options were also treated as upgrades. In comparison, the Camry 's options increased the buying price. True, some of these were fun to have, but if they come with the car, it seemed foolish to pay an additional several hundred dollars.

6. Toyota Company
It is saddening to learn that, for many years, Toyota followed a specific plan through the whole process of selling cars. As new leaders came on board, they chose to cut some corners. We learn that Toyota knew of problems concerning drivers being unable to stop their cars. The fact they chose to cover it up puts the Toyota company in the same group as many large corporations today. Truthfully they are concerned mainly with greed and power.

7. Resale value
As of now, dealers and media tell us that these cars are moving from the showroom as always. I'm concerned because of continued and increased attention to flaws in the ability to stop the Toyota automobiles. I fear the problems will only increase. Unless Toyota quickly and truly steps up to the plate, the resale value of the Toyota Camry may plummet.

Of course none of us know the outcome of the Toyota story. We hope the corporation's leadership will address problems thoroughly and provide customers with a great product. Many people in the United States are employed by Toyota. Our economy is troubled enough. People must be able to trust those in power to do the right thing.

Toyota products were stylish and previously were great cars for all ages. Young people to the elderly proudly drove them for many years. They were free of much maintenance and kept their value. Showrooms and dealerships drew buyers inside. Interior and exterior colors were favored and attractive. Many people were drawn to Toyota products because of the great gas mileage. We hope this glitch can soon be overcome and Toyota won't be in the business of back peddling or covering up.