Does a 1996 Camry have a distributor?
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The Toyota Camry used distributors in its engines up to 1996. If you have engines from those years that are 2.0L, 2.2L, 2.5L and 3.0L, then your engine has a distributor. If you’re handy with basic tools, then you can replace the distributor.
Does my distributor cap need replacing?

Replacing the distributor cap and rotor at the same time should be completed every 50,000 miles, regardless of whether or not they are damaged. If your vehicle does not put on a lot of miles every year, it’s also a good idea to replace them every three years.
Is it easy to change a distributor cap?
Regardless of the model of the car, it should be easy to remove the cap. If the distributor cap is held in place using clips, pull them away to free the cap. If however it needs unscrewing, use a Philips head screwdriver and turn the screws anti-clockwise to remove them.
What happens if your distributor cap is cracked?
A cracked distributor cap can cause a car’s engine to miss, which may lead to rough idling as well as hesitation during acceleration.

How do I know if my distributor cap and rotor is bad?
Usually a faulty distributor rotor and cap will produce a few symptoms that alert the driver that service may be required.
- Engine misfires. Engine misfires can occur for a number of reasons.
- Car doesn’t start.
- Check Engine Light comes on.
- Excessive or unusual engine noises.
What makes distributor cap go bad?
Ignition cap and rotor failure can be caused by failures elsewhere in the ignition system. The ignition wires and spark plugs should be thoroughly inspected. Old plugs or wires will burn out even a new cap and rotor. Engine fluid leaks can cause damage to the ignition cap and rotor.
Do I need to disconnect battery to change distributor cap?
Before removing the distributor cap, tag the lead to the cylinder used for timing and mark its position on the distributor body. Make sure that the battery is disconnected. Prise apart the two retaining clips to free the distributor cap or remove the screws if the cap is held on by screws.
Does a distributor cap only go on one way?
Reinstall the distributor cap in the same orientation that the old cap was installed. The cap will only go on one way that allows the clips or bolts to be properly fastened. Start the motor to ensure that it is running correctly and firing on all cylinders.
What causes distributor cap to crack?
There are several wear and tear that can cause the distributor cap to fail, which would then require replacement, including: Cracks in the housing: Due to exposure to freezing temperature in the winter and then sudden heat when the engine’s running, causing the housing to crack.
Can you repair a cracked distributor cap?
It is not advisable to attempt repairs on distributor caps as the inserts are moulded in the cap and cannot be removed. Also, the cost of a new cap is much less than the labor involved in attempting a repair.
What happens when distributor cap goes bad?
A faulty distributor cap can cause your engine to stall. Voltage must be produced by the spinning distributor rotor for the engine to keep running. If the rotor does not rotate properly, the engine loses power and stalls out as you’re trying to drive. The longer you let this go on, the worse it will get.