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Is the Toyota Camry a reliable vehicle?

Yes, the Toyota Camry is widely considered a highly reliable vehicle. According to extensive research and reviews, the Camry consistently ranks among the most dependable cars on the market, known for its long-lasting performance, low maintenance costs, and exceptional safety features.

Proven Reliability and Durability

The Toyota Camry has a well-earned reputation for reliability, with numerous studies and surveys consistently placing it at the top of the list for dependable midsize sedans. According to the latest J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study, the Camry scored above average in overall reliability, with owners reporting few mechanical issues or unexpected problems during the first three years of ownership. This long-standing reputation for durability is a key factor in the Camry's enduring popularity and high resale value.

Low Maintenance and Repair Costs

The Toyota Camry is also known for its low maintenance and repair costs, which contribute to its overall reliability and affordability over the long term. Owners can expect to spend less on routine servicing and unexpected repairs compared to many other midsize sedans, thanks to the Camry's well-engineered components and Toyota's commitment to producing high-quality, long-lasting vehicles.

Safety and Advanced Features

In addition to its reliability, the Toyota Camry is also recognized for its strong safety ratings and advanced driver assistance features. The Camry consistently earns top safety scores from organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), providing peace of mind for drivers and their families.

Conclusion
In summary, the Toyota Camry is widely regarded as one of the most reliable and dependable vehicles on the market, with a proven track record of long-lasting performance, low maintenance costs, and advanced safety features. Its reputation for reliability and durability is a key factor in the Camry's enduring popularity and high customer satisfaction ratings.

What are the most common issues with a Toyota Camry?

Common problems with the Toyota Camry include transmission issues like hesitation and rough shifting, engine troubles such as excessive oil consumption and a check engine light from a faulty oxygen sensor, and power steering leaks. Older models may also experience specific issues like melting dashboards or faulty airbags, while newer models have seen less frequent but still present problems.

This video discusses common problems in the 8th generation Toyota Camry: 1mNot-So-Handy Car GuyYouTube · Jan 31, 2025
Engine and electrical issues

Excessive oil consumption: Some models, particularly those with the 2AZ-FE engine from 2007–2011, are prone to burning oil due to faulty piston rings.
Check Engine Light: A common cause is a faulty oxygen sensor.
Ignition Coil Failure: Can occur after 100,000 miles.
Melting/cracking dashboards: Reported in certain model years, leading to glare and safety concerns.
Electrical problems: Examples include malfunctioning power windows, door locks, and dashboard lights.

Transmission problems

Hesitation and rough shifting: Especially when accelerating or shifting gears.
Delayed engagement: The transmission may lag when shifting into gear.
Slipping: Some owners have reported the transmission slipping out of gear.
Faulty solenoids: Higher mileage models can have issues with the 3-way lock-up solenoid.

This video explains some of the common problems found in older Toyota Camrys: 22sYourCarAngelYouTube · Apr 14, 2024
Steering and suspension

Power steering leaks: Leaks can occur in the pump or hoses, and some models may have a leaking steering rack and pinion.
Warped brake rotors: Can cause the steering wheel to shudder.
Motor mount wear: The passenger-side motor mount can wear out on higher mileage vehicles.

This video reviews the good, the bad, and potential reasons for selling a Toyota Camry: 59sExoticCar PlayPlaceYouTube · Apr 17, 2025
Other issues

Air conditioning problems: Weak airflow, poor cooling, or unusual odors.
Fuel system issues: Engine hesitation, stalling, or poor fuel economy can occur.
Exterior paint peeling: A problem reported by some owners.
Exterior light wiring harness: The wiring harness for the rear lights can break.

You can watch this video to learn about the long-term reliability of the Toyota Camry: 1mChris DrivesYouTube · Jul 7, 2024

Is a Toyota Camry a long-lasting car?

Many owners report that their vehicles remain dependable even after several years of use, making it a popular choice for those looking for a car that will last. Studies show that a well-maintained Toyota Camry can easily surpass the 200,000-mile mark, with some even reaching 300,000 miles with diligent care.

Which years of Toyota Camry are most reliable?

The most reliable Toyota Camry years include models from 2001, 2006, 2013, 2015-2017, and 2020-2021, with many sources highlighting the 2014 and 2017 models specifically. These years are praised for having low recalls, high scores in reliability ratings, and a strong track record of longevity.
This video discusses the most reliable Toyota Camry models: 1mHotCarsYouTube · Nov 9, 2023
Standout years with high reliability ratings

2001: Praised for having a strong track record with zero recalls.
2006: Part of the fifth generation and known for its durable 2.4L and 3.0L engines, with many owners exceeding 200,000 miles.
2013-2015: Considered a strong period for the seventh generation, with the 2014 model specifically scoring 92 out of 100 from J.D. Power.
2017: A highly reliable year from the seventh generation, with very few recalls and high scores.
2020-2021: These recent models are also noted for their reliability, although the 2020 model saw some battery-related complaints.

Years to approach with caution

2007-2009 (gasoline models): Avoid these due to engine issues, specifically excessive oil consumption.

This video discusses some reliable and unreliable Toyota Camry models: 59sCar ComfyYouTube · Jul 29, 2025

Which Camry to stay away from?

You should avoid the Toyota Camry model years 2007-2009 due to significant issues like excessive oil consumption, transmission problems, and potential engine damage. Other problematic years to be cautious of include 2002, 2010-2011, and 2018-2019, which have reported issues ranging from oil leaks to faulty 8-speed transmissions.
Years to avoid

2007–2009: These years are most frequently cited as problematic.
- Cause: They are known for excessive oil consumption in 4-cylinder engines, often requiring constant top-offs and potentially leading to engine damage.
- Other issues: Transmission problems and other engine-related complaints were also common.
2002: This model year is known for serious engine problems, including common oil leaks and high oil consumption.
2010–2011: These models continued to have oil consumption issues and other problems.
2018–2019: Some models experienced issues with the 8-speed automatic transmission, including problems with shifting.

Tips for buyers

Research thoroughly: Always check the vehicle's history report and research specific model years before buying.
Get a pre-purchase inspection: Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection to identify any potential issues.
Consider other years: Many other Toyota Camry model years have excellent reliability ratings and are considered good choices.

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.