What year are the bad Camrys?

There isn’t a single year that makes a Toyota Camry universally “bad.” The Camry is celebrated for reliability, and most model years are solid choices when properly maintained. The main risks come from poor upkeep, incomplete recalls, or high mileage. This article breaks down reliability trends, notable recalls, and practical steps to evaluate a used Camry.

In this guide, you’ll learn how reliability has varied across Camry generations, which recalls have affected certain years, and a buyer’s checklist to help you spot a well-maintained, dependable example. The goal is to empower you to assess a used Camry on its own merits rather than labeling an entire model year as inherently faulty.

Reliability Across Camry Generations

The Camry’s reputation for longevity generally holds across generations, with many owners reporting trouble-free operation well into the 100,000+ mile range. Each generation brought refinements, especially in drivetrain and electronics, so newer models tend to offer improved performance and warranties. That said, age-related wear and the complexity of newer electrical systems can introduce issues if maintenance has been neglected.

Notable recall patterns and what to verify

The following notes summarize recall-driven concerns and things to verify when shopping for a used Camry. Remember to check each vehicle’s VIN against recall databases to confirm completed campaigns.

• Major campaign periods affecting several Camry years include gas-pedal/floor-mat-related recalls and Takata airbag inflator recalls. Ensure these campaigns have been completed for any model year under consideration.


• Older Camrys (late 1990s to early 2000s) may show wear typical of aging vehicles, such as suspension components and rust-prone areas in certain climates. A careful inspection of chassis, suspension, and trim is prudent for high-mileage examples.


• Modern Camrys (roughly 2012 onward) generally demonstrate strong reliability, but electronics, sensors, and infotainment systems can experience glitches. A thorough check of dashboards, wiring, and module communications is wise on higher-mileage units.

In short, while certain campaigns have touched multiple years, there is no single Camry year universally deemed “bad.” The true determinant is how well the car has been maintained and whether all recalls have been addressed.

Practical steps to evaluate a used Camry

Before buying a used Camry, use this checklist to gauge its reliability prospects and remaining lifespan.

• Maintenance history: Confirm regular oil changes, timing chain maintenance where applicable, brake service, and transmission fluid changes. A well-documented service log is a strong signal.


• Recall verification: Look up the VIN on official recall databases to confirm open or completed campaigns. Address any outstanding recalls before purchase or shortly after.


• Test drive indicators: Listen for unusual engine noises, check for smooth shifting in automatic transmissions, and note any rough handling or abnormal vibrations during acceleration, braking, and cornering.


• Visual inspection: Check for rust, frame integrity (especially on older regional cars), oil leaks, and signs of lemon-juice-like corrosion in critical components.


• Pre-purchase inspection: Have a trusted mechanic perform a comprehensive inspection focusing on the engine, transmission, suspension, cooling system, and electrical components.

Conclusion: A well-maintained Camry with up-to-date recalls and a clean maintenance history is typically a reliable choice, regardless of model year. Avoid examples with neglected service, mystery repairs, or unresolved recalls, and you’ll maximize your odds of long-term satisfaction.

Recalls and reliability data to consult

To gauge a Camry’s reliability prospects by year, use these sources and practices. They help separate anecdote from data-driven trends.

• NHTSA recall database: Search by model year or VIN to see open/closed campaigns and safety-related fixes.


• Toyota official recall site: Review campaigns specific to the Camry and verify completion dates.


• Consumer Reports and J.D. Power: Check reliability scores and owner satisfaction by model year for a broader view of trends.


• Owner communities and independent reviews: Use them for context, but confirm any claims with official recall or service records.

Remember that recalls are common across many models and years. A Camry that has addressed its campaigns and received timely maintenance tends to outperform a newer-looking car with an incomplete service history.

Summary

There isn’t a definite “bad” Camry year. The strongest signal of reliability is maintenance discipline and completed recalls, not the calendar year alone. If you’re shopping used Camrys, target well-documented maintenance, verified recall completion, and a clean pre-purchase inspection. When cared for, Camrys remain among the most dependable choices in the used-car market.

What's the most reliable year for a Toyota Camry?

The most reliable Toyota Camry years include the 2014, 2017, 2020, and 2021 models, noted for their strong reliability ratings and few recalls. Older models like the 2006 and the 2009-2011 generation are also considered dependable, while the 2012-2017 generation is frequently recommended for its overall reliability. 
Most reliable model years

• 2014: Earned a high score from J.D. Power and is a budget-friendly, reliable option. 
• 2017: The final year of the seventh generation, it is considered highly reliable and includes a functional infotainment system. 
• 2020: A top choice due to a history of zero recalls and complaints. 
• 2021: Features improved build quality and safety features, with 5/5 reliability ratings in key categories. 
• 2006: Part of the fifth generation, this model is praised for its durable engines and reputation for long-term reliability, often exceeding 200,000 miles. 
• 2009-2011: These model years from the sixth generation received high ratings and 5/5 reliability scores from Consumer Reports. 

What to consider when buying

• Age vs. technology: Older, more affordable models like the 2006 Camry may lack modern features but are mechanically very dependable. 
• Generation differences: The 2012-2017 seventh generation is frequently cited as a strong choice for overall reliability. 
• Potential issues: While generally reliable, some model years have specific issues, such as oil consumption problems in some 2007-2009 gasoline models, which should be investigated before purchase. 

What are the best Toyota Camry years to avoid?

The 2007–2009 Toyota Camry has earned a reputation as a car to avoid because of the sheer number of recurring problems reported by thousands of drivers.

Which year did Camrys burn oil?

Toyota Camrys from the 2007–2009 model years with the 4-cylinder 2AZ-FE engine are the most affected by oil burning issues, though the problem can extend to certain 2006-2011 model years as well. These engines had a design flaw with the piston rings that could lead to excessive oil consumption.
 
Affected vehicles

• 2007–2009 Toyota Camry: (and Camry Hybrid models from 2007-2011) 
• This issue primarily affects the 4-cylinder engines with the 2AZ-FE engine. 
• Other Toyota models from around the same time with this engine can also be affected, including the 2006-2008 RAV4 and 2007-2008 Solara. 

What to do

• Check your VIN and maintenance records: The issue is tied to specific engine and production dates. 
• Contact a dealership: Toyota has a limited service campaign to address some cases, but the warranty extension for many of these vehicles has already expired, says Ethen Ostroff Law. 
• Perform regular oil checks: If your vehicle is not eligible for a warranty repair, you will need to monitor the oil level regularly and add oil as needed to prevent engine damage. 
• Consider a repair: If the oil consumption is severe, a repair may be necessary. This could involve replacing the engine's piston and rings, or in some cases, replacing the entire engine. 

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.