Because I've been told that my '97 Camry LE 4 with 88,000 miles needs new engine seals (a puff of white smoke on startup in the morning, sometimes -- no signs of sludge), and that it will cost $900 - $1200 to repair, I've looked into replacing it instead. I've driven the Accord, Passat, and Altima, but decided that the new car I would most enjoy driving until it craps out (perhaps prematurely again) would be another Camry. So yesterday I rented one and drove it 500 miles to see whether I'd really like it.
The driving experience is very similar to my current Camry. Some things have been improved, some are worse. (I'm 5'7" and the radio and A/C controls are a long reach for me.) But the big difference, and what will keep me from buying a new Camry unless a solution can be found, is the driver's seat. The front passenger seat and the back seat are all comfortable. But the driver's seat has an adjustable lumbar support that even at its minimum setting is sticking me in the back. An aftermarket lamb's wool seat insert helped alleviate the pressure, but I was still feeling it at the end of the day.
I've seen comments from other people that the driver's seat in the '97 - '01 Camry didn't have enough lower back support. (For me it's comfortable.) I think Toyota heard the complaints but went to the opposite extreme.
Does anyone know what's inside the seat there? Is it an air bladder? If so, what would happen if you let ALL the air out? Would the seatback collapse inward? Can anyone suggest any other solution?
As of now, it looks like the dealer will be reaching into my wallet for another $1200. For an engine that should have lasted a lot longer.