how do I tell if my 96 Camry was made in Japan or in USA?

Look at the 17-digit Vehicle Idenification Number (VIN). If the first character is a "J" then it is made in Japan. It doesn't matter where the mirror is made, only the final assembly plant. Look at the sticker ont he driver's door jamb for the VIN. While you are at it, note the color and trim code if the mirror is body-colored and the production date to give to the parts deparment.

Amazingly when I owned a Nissan that was assembled in the US, the only problems I had were the US made parts. The engine never gave any problems but that was back when they made them right on the Nissan, not any more. So, I would think the same applies to the Toyota parts ? PS: My current cars are Toyotas.

Ray O wrote:

Ray,

Thanks a lot. It is useful.

--peter

The VIN number. One of the first 3 or 4 digits will tell yoiu what country the car was built in. The dealer can tell you ...

You're welcome! good luck!

In my experience, parts sourced in North America are not that much worse than parts sourced in Japan. Of course, most parts sourced in N.A. are made with the same process and specifications as the ones sourced in Japan.

Yes on some parts you need to know whether US or Japanese -- as the parts are different (like mount differently).