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Is the 2017 Camry a reliable car?

Yes. The 2017 Toyota Camry is widely regarded as one of the most reliable midsize sedans of its era, offering strong long-term durability and typically low maintenance costs. As with any used car, the actual reliability depends on how well the vehicle was maintained and how many miles it has racked up.

The following examination looks at reliability ratings from major outlets, what real-world owners report, and practical steps for evaluating a used 2017 Camry before purchase.

Reliability ratings and expert opinions

To gauge reliability, several respected outlets regularly review the Camry's long-term dependability and ownership costs. The 2017 model sits within Toyota's broad reputation for durability, and reviewers often highlight its predictable maintenance needs and strong resale value.

Consumer Reports and other consumer-review platforms consistently rate the Camry family, including the 2017 model, as highly reliable with favorable owner satisfaction and low maintenance costs.

J.D. Power's reliability and quality scores for the Camry lineup, including the 2017 model year, tend to be strong, reflecting Toyota's historical track record for durability.

U.S. News & World Report and similar automotive outlets typically place the 2017 Camry in the top tier for reliability among midsize sedans, noting durable construction and solid long-term performance.

Overall, major outlets converge on the view that the 2017 Camry offers strong reliability, which aligns with Toyota's longstanding reputation for durable, low-maintenance vehicles. Individual results still depend on how the car was cared for and its mileage.

Pros and cons in real-world ownership

Understanding what real-world owners report helps balance the reliability picture with practical ownership considerations. The list below highlights common strengths and potential drawbacks cited by owners and critics.

Pros: Comfortable ride, spacious interior, strong resale value, efficient engines (especially the 2.5L four-cylinder), and a robust warranty history in new-car terms that often translates to confidence in used models.

Cons: Some owners note infotainment quirks in the Entune system, and a few reports describe occasional transmission or sensor-related glitches; however, these issues are not widespread and typically resolved with software updates or maintenance.

In short, the 2017 Camry generally earns praise for reliability and ownership practicality, with occasional tech-related annoyances that are common to many modern cars. A well-documented service history tends to mitigate most concerns.

How to evaluate a used 2017 Camry

If you’re shopping for a used 2017 Camry, follow these steps to assess condition and minimize risk:

Check the maintenance history and request service records, focusing on regular oil changes, filter changes, tire replacements, and timing chain-related services (the 2017 Camry uses a timing chain, which typically requires less maintenance than a timing belt).

Run a VIN check for recalls and ensure all open recalls have been addressed; verify with Toyota or a dealership that the recall work is complete.

Inspect critical wear items and overall condition: brakes, tires, suspension, belts, hoses, and signs of leaks around the engine and transmission; listen for unusual noises during a road test.

Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection to catch issues not evident from a visual check or test drive.

Take note of the infotainment system’s responsiveness and Bluetooth connectivity, as some owners report glitches that can usually be resolved with software updates.

Following these steps helps you identify a well-cared-for example and reduces the likelihood of surprise repairs after purchase.

Bottom line

The 2017 Camry remains a standout choice for buyers prioritizing reliability in a midsize sedan. With Toyota’s reputation for durability, standard safety features across many trims, and typically reasonable ownership costs, a well-maintained 2017 Camry can offer years of dependable service. As with any used vehicle, the key is to verify maintenance history, confirm recall status, and arrange a thorough pre-purchase inspection.

Summary

In sum, the 2017 Toyota Camry is widely regarded as a reliable pick in its class, backed by strong ratings from major automotive outlets and a proven maintenance track record. Its timing-chain engine design reduces some long-term maintenance concerns, and the model year benefited from active safety features that remain relevant today. For buyers, the best path is a careful inspection, complete service history, and a clean recall record to ensure you’re getting a durable commuter with solid resale value.

How many miles will a 2017 Toyota Camry last?

A 2017 Toyota Camry will likely last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles with proper maintenance, though some owners report exceeding 300,000 miles. The lifespan depends heavily on how well it is maintained, including regular oil changes and addressing repairs promptly.

Factors that influence longevity

Maintenance: Adhering to the recommended service schedule, including timely oil and fluid changes, is crucial for longevity.
Repairs: Addressing small issues quickly can prevent them from becoming major, expensive problems down the line.
Driving habits: Smooth operation and consistent use can help a car last longer, as it keeps seals moist and prevents components from drying out, says Quora users.
Component durability: The Camry's reputation for durability is built on high-quality production materials and a reputation for lasting performance.

Are 2017 Toyota Camry reliable?

The 2017 Toyota Camry is generally considered a reliable car with a strong reputation, though common issues can include potential leaks from the power steering pump or valve cover gaskets and potential problems with the automatic transmission shifting. Owners should also be aware of the potential for rock chips on the hood due to its design and thin paint.

This video provides an overview of common problems found in the 2012-2017 Toyota Camry: 40sFixITYouTube · Apr 6, 2024
Key reliability points:

Overall reliability: The 2017 Camry is praised for its overall dependability and high owner satisfaction. Many owners report high mileage with only routine maintenance.
Potential issues:
- Leaks: Some owners have reported leaks from the power steering pump and hose, and from the valve cover gaskets.
- Transmission: Issues with the automatic transmission, such as hesitation when accelerating or incorrect shifting at higher mileages, can occur.
- Check engine light: The check engine light may come on due to a failed oxygen sensor component.
Aesthetic/minor issues:
- Rock chips: The hood's design can be susceptible to rock chips and the paint may be thin, so it's advisable to check for these on a used model and touch them up to prevent rust.
Electronic interfaces: While the mechanical components are reliable, the infotainment system is considered dated compared to newer vehicles and some touch-screen controls are less reliable than traditional knobs.

You can watch this video for a buying guide on 2015-2017 Toyota Camry models: 55sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Jul 9, 2020

What are the most common problems with a 2017 Toyota Camry?

Common problems reported for the 2017 Toyota Camry include automatic transmission issues like hesitation and improper shifting, check engine lights due to failed oxygen sensors, and power steering pump and hose leaks. Other common complaints include valve cover gasket oil leaks and potential brake system issues such as premature pad/rotor wear.
This video discusses the common problems in the 2017 Toyota Camry, including brake issues and engine problems: 56sFixITYouTube · Apr 6, 2024
Engine and electrical

Check Engine Light: Can be triggered by a failed oxygen sensor or an evaporative emission (EVAP) purge control valve.
Valve Cover Gaskets: May leak oil.
Water Pump: Failure has been reported.
Battery: Some owners have reported needing a new battery.

Transmission

Hesitation: The automatic transmission may hesitate when accelerating.
Shifting: The transmission may not shift correctly, especially at higher mileages.
Other issues: Some owners have reported grinding or jumping in low gears and a burning smell.

This video explains how to diagnose and fix the problem with the transmission in a Toyota Camry: 1mcar PROblemsYouTube · May 22, 2025
Brakes

Premature Wear: Some owners have experienced premature wear of brake pads and rotors.
Brake Malfunctions: Complaints include intermittent brake failure and the anti-lock brake (ABS) light coming on.

Steering and suspension

Power Steering: Leaks from the power steering pump and hoses have been reported.
Steering Complaints: The Center for Auto Safety notes recent complaints related to steering, suspension, and overall vehicle control.

Other issues

Paint: Some reports mention paint blemishes and issues with the finish.

What year of Toyota Camry should I stay away from?

The Toyota Camry years to avoid are primarily 2007–2011, due to excessive oil consumption issues in the 4-cylinder engine, and 2002, which had numerous complaints. Other years with significant reported issues include 2008 and 2009, as well as 2012-2014 for potential transmission problems and 2018-2019 for specific 8-speed automatic transmission and fuel system problems.

This video discusses the best and worst Toyota Camry years: 54scar PROblemsYouTube · May 22, 2025
2007–2011

4-cylinder engine: This generation is known for the 2AZ-FE engine, which has low-tension piston rings that can lead to excessive oil burning, especially at higher mileage.
Melting dashboards: These models are also prone to dashboards that melt and become sticky in hot weather.
Airbag system: Some 2010-2011 models had airbag failures, including unexpected deployment or failure to deploy in an accident.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.