What is the best year Toyota Camry to get?

In short, if you’re shopping used, aim for the 2018–2021 Camry years, with 2019–2020 often highlighted for a good balance of updated technology and proven reliability. If you’re buying new, the current model year offers the latest features and the strongest warranty.

To understand why this matters, it helps to consider how the Camry has evolved over its recent generations. The 2018 refresh marked the start of a newer generation with a quieter cabin, improved ride, and more comprehensive safety technology. In the following years, Toyota added smartphone integration and refined driver-assistance features, while hybrid options continued to boost fuel economy. For buyers on the used market, those mid-to-late model years tend to offer a favorable mix of modern conveniences, reliability, and resale value, without the steep depreciation of the oldest generations.

Best model years for used Camry

Before the list, here is a concise guide to model years on the used market that are commonly favored for reliability, safety tech, and value.

• 2018: First year of the current eighth generation, delivering a refined ride, quieter cabin, and modern safety tech. A strong baseline for a used Camry with up-to-date dynamics.


• 2019: Expanded tech options, including smartphone integration that many buyers expect, along with continued safety enhancements. A popular upgrade over 2018 models.


• 2020: Strong reliability and minimal mid-cycle changes; excellent value for a late-model used Camry.


• 2021: Hybrid versions available with improved efficiency and a well-equipped trim mix; solid resale and feature set.


• 2022–2023: Mild refresh and ongoing safety-tech improvements; modern styling and features keep these years competitive in the used market.

Concluding: In practice, 2018–2021 models are the sweet spot for most buyers seeking a balance of modern features, comfort, and dependable performance. If you want the newest tech and warranty coverage, look toward the current model year or certified pre-owned status from recent years.

What changed across these years

The 2018 redesign introduced a quieter cabin and improved ride quality, with more advanced safety systems becoming standard or widely available. From 2019 onward, smartphone integration and incremental tech updates became common, while hybrid options continued to offer strong fuel economy. By 2022–2023, the Camry carried forward a refreshed look and updated features, maintaining strong value on the used market.

New vs used: decisions for shoppers in 2024–2025

Before the list, consider how you weigh warranty, upfront cost, and access to the latest safety tech. The Camry remains a reliable, well-regarded sedan, but your choice between new and used will influence value and peace of mind.

• New Camry: You’ll get the latest styling, the most up-to-date safety technology, and the full factory warranty. The upfront cost is higher, but the risk of unknown wear is lower.


• Used Camry (2018–2023): You can save money while still enjoying modern features and safety tech. Prices vary with mileage and condition; prioritize lower-mileage, well-documented vehicles and plan for standard maintenance costs.

Conclusion: For many buyers, a newer used Camry (2019–2021) offers a favorable balance of cost and modern features, while the current-year model provides maximum warranty and the latest tech. Always check vehicle history and obtain a pre-purchase inspection.

Summary

The best years to buy a Toyota Camry, on balance, are 2018–2023 on the used market, with 2018 serving as the anchor year for the current-generation platform and 2019–2021 frequently cited as especially solid values. If you want the newest features and the strongest warranty, buy the latest model year. Regardless of year, diligent shopping—vehicle history, inspection, and a test drive—helps ensure you meet your reliability and comfort expectations.

Which year of Toyota Camry is best?

The best years for a Toyota Camry are generally considered to be 2012-2017 and 2019-2020 for their balance of reliability and modern features, though individual models like the 2001 and 2014 are also highly rated. For those seeking a newer model, the 2021 and 2023 years are noted for high reliability ratings. It's best to avoid the 2007-2009 models due to reported transmission and oil consumption issues.
 
This video discusses the best and worst Toyota Camry years: 59scar PROblemsYouTube · May 22, 2025
Top recommended years

• 2012-2017: This generation is frequently highlighted as a great "sweet spot" for used models, offering solid reliability and affordability. The 2017 model is often singled out as a strong pick within this group. 
• 2019-2020: These years are praised for their reliability and include the start of a new generation with modern hybrid options. 
• 2001: A very reliable model from an earlier generation, with few recalls and durable engines. 
• 2014: Specifically recommended as a model year with a strong reliability score and zero reported recalls. 
• 2021 and 2023: These newer models are noted for excellent reliability ratings, with the 2021 being a particularly strong pick for contemporary technology without major issues. 

Years to approach with caution

• 2007-2009: These gasoline models are best avoided due to well-documented issues with excessive oil consumption and transmission problems, which can lead to costly repairs. 

What's the best used Toyota Camry to buy?

The best used Toyota Camry models for reliability and satisfaction are the 2002-2006, 2012-2017, and 2019-2021 model years. The 2014 model is often cited as a particularly strong choice, and the 2005 model is an excellent budget-friendly option. Avoid the 2007-2009 gasoline models due to potential engine issues, and be aware that the 2019 model had some recall concerns, though it also introduced features like Apple CarPlay.
 
This video explains which Toyota Camry models to consider based on their reliability and value: 1mHotCarsYouTube · Nov 9, 2023
Best model years

• 2002–2006: An affordable generation known for extreme dependability, especially the 4-cylinder models. The 2005 model is a great budget pick. 
• 2012–2017: This entire generation received excellent reliability ratings from organizations like Consumer Reports. 
  • 2014: Often cited as a top pick for reliability, it also won awards for its value. 
  • 2015: Introduced design updates and maintained strong reliability scores. 
• 2019–2021: These models offer a good blend of modern features and reliability. 
  • 2019: Introduced Apple CarPlay, but be aware of recalls related to the fuel pump and brake vacuum pump. 
  • 2021: Highly praised for its reliability and modern technology features. 

This video explains the best and worst years for Toyota Camry models: 51sCar ComfyYouTube · Jul 29, 2025
Years to approach with caution

• 2007–2009: Gasoline models from this period are known to have issues with excessive oil consumption. 
• 2019: While it has modern features, be mindful of the fuel pump and brake vacuum pump recalls associated with this model year. 

Is it a good idea to buy a used Camry?

A used Toyota Camry is a fantastic investment, combining reliability, comfort, and performance. By focusing on model year, mileage, and maintenance history, and by considering the benefits of buying from a dealership, you can confidently find the perfect Camry to meet your needs.

Which Camry to stay away from?

You should stay away from the 2007–2014 Toyota Camry, particularly the 2007–2011 models with the 2.4L 2AZ-FE engine due to oil consumption issues, and the 2012–2014 models that had transmission and AC problems. The 2018–2019 models also had reports of transmission issues with their 8-speed automatics.
 
Specific model years to avoid and why

• 2007–2011: These models, especially those with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, are prone to excessive oil consumption due to a design flaw in the piston rings. This can lead to serious engine damage, like rod knock, if not maintained meticulously. 
• 2012–2014: These years experienced recurring problems with the automatic transmission, including slipping and torque converter issues. Owners also reported a musty smell from the AC system due to mold growth, and other issues with the AC compressor or heating. 
• 2018–2019: Some of these models had problems with the 8-speed automatic transmission, leading to funky shifting. 

What to consider instead
If you're looking for a reliable used Camry, focus on other model years like 2005–2006, 2015, or 2016–2017 models. You may also consider models from 2010 onwards, which had more reliable engines and safety features like standard stability control.