I moved to an apartment whose driveway ramp does not like my '96 Camry. When I back the Camry up the ramp, it is very hard -- impossible with a full payload of passengers -- to avoid scraping the bottom of the car. The driveway does not look steep or otherwise unusual, and my tiny Hyundai Accent handles it just fine. Going in forwards instead of backwards with the Camry is fine too. I had my regular mechanic inspect the Camry's suspension and it checked out OK. Any suggestions?
Chris
I suspect that the exhaust is scraping. Your regular mechanic should be able to tell what part of the exhaust is scraping by looking for marks on the exhaust. Also have him check to see if the exhaust is factory original or aftermarket, and if the aftermarket exhaust is hanging lower than the factory one (or vice versa)
There are several possible remedies:
1) Don't back into the driveway; 2) Have your regular mechanic go to techinfo.toyota.com and pay the $10 to access the Toyota factory service manuals to get the ride height specifications. If it is low, strut replacements may help. 3) Depending on what part of the undercarriage is actually scraping, perhaps aftermarket suspension bags may help.
Check that crazy bend they put in the exhaust pipe on those cars near the rear 'axle'. I bet you're pounding it flat.
Never could understand that bend in the pipe, or at least, having it go DOWN instead of UP!
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