2002 Toyota Camry Valve seal

Tiny
JT129
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 TOYOTA CAMRY
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 14,700 MILES
I have a 2002 Camry xle V4 (very well kept and up to date with schedule maintenance). Slowly started making a noise (not loud but not heard before) the car sat- for about 4-5 days. Now, when I turned on the car he makes the noise and started smoking when started after it has sat. The smoke is white or some say light blue and it only last for a few seconds after I turned the car on so does the noise. I also notice my car feeling heavy and slow performing, little change in gas millage. I took the car to the dealer and after waiting 5 hours they stated "we don't know what’s wrong it maybe the valve seal but we need to let it cool" After 5 hours? I don't know about any recall or if there is an advisory out from Toyota of a smoke problem on start up on the 02 Camry’s but the mechanic has said it maybe the valve stem seals or valve guide seals but he has not actually looked at the vehicle completely to be sure (I guess still cooling) Can somebody please tell me why this maybe happening and what price or ball park range I may be looking at for this repair? Are there any other options for this repair.I really appreciate if you can assist me with these questions. My car is seating at the dealership and I can't sleep just thinking about what price tag they come on with.
My sincere thanks
Julie T
Friday, August 27th, 2010 AT 4:25 AM

1 Reply

Tiny
MMPRINCE4000
  • MECHANIC
  • 8,548 POSTS
Blue smoke on startup that stops a few seconds later is generally valve stem seals, unusual for an '02, but possible.

They can change seals with head on, using compressed air.

If white smoke, then that would indicate coolant, which is much more serious, this could be a head gasket, cracked head.
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Friday, August 27th, 2010 AT 8:26 AM

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