Where are the airbags in a Toyota Camry?
The airbags in a Toyota Camry are placed to protect occupants during a crash: the driver's airbag sits in the steering wheel, the front passenger airbag is in the dashboard in front of the glove compartment, side airbags are built into the outer edges of the front seats, and curtain airbags run along the roofline to shield both front and rear passengers. Knee airbags are also part of many modern Camrys, primarily for the driver and often for the front passenger depending on year and trim.
The exact layout can vary by model year and trim level. In newer Camrys, you’ll typically find a driver knee airbag beneath the steering column and, on many models, a front passenger knee airbag as well. Curtain airbags cover front and rear seating, while seat-mounted side airbags protect the occupants in the front seats. Rear-seat airbag configurations are less common and may depend on the market or trim. For a precise breakdown, checking the owner’s manual or the vehicle’s safety labeling is the best course.
Airbag locations in a Camry
Standard locations across most recent Camrys include:
- Driver airbag mounted in the steering wheel.
- Front passenger airbag mounted in the dashboard in front of the glove compartment.
- Driver knee airbag tucked beneath the steering column.
- Front passenger knee airbag in many newer trims and model years.
- Front side airbags embedded in the outer edges of the front seats.
- Curtain shield airbags along the roofline that deploy over the windows for both front and rear occupants.
Note: Rear side airbags are not typically standard on Camry models; curtain airbags generally provide protection for rear passengers in most configurations.
Variations by year and trim
The availability of certain airbags can differ by model year and trim level. Here is a general guide for recent Camry versions:
- Driver knee airbag: widely included as part of the driver’s SRS system.
- Front passenger knee airbag: common on newer trims; may be absent on some base configurations.
- Curtain shield airbags: standard across most recent models, protecting both rows.
- Seat-mounted side airbags: standard on the front row.
- Rear-seat airbags: not commonly included as standard; may be offered in specific markets or packages.
To confirm the exact configuration for your vehicle, consult the owner’s manual, check the airbag labels on the components, or contact a Toyota dealer with your VIN and trim information.
What to know and how to check
Airbags are part of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). They require proper maintenance and should never be tampered with. If you’re unsure about your specific Camry, verify through the vehicle’s documentation or a Toyota service professional. When replacing parts or performing repairs, always use OEM components to preserve the integrity of the airbag system.
Summary
In modern Toyota Camrys, airbags are strategically placed in the steering wheel (driver), the dashboard (front passenger), the outer edges of the front seats (side airbags), and along the roofline (curtain airbags) to protect occupants in various crash scenarios. Driver knee airbags are common, and front passenger knee airbags appear on many newer trims. The exact airbag configuration varies by model year and trim, so checking the specific vehicle’s manual or with a dealer provides the most accurate, up-to-date information.
