Is the Toyota Camry Reliable? Common Problems, Recalls & Risk Score

The Toyota Camry is consistently one of the best-selling sedans in America, and for good reason , it has a well-earned reputation for reliability. But is that reputation backed by data? We analyzed every NHTSA complaint ever filed against the Camry to find out.

What the NHTSA Data Shows

Across all model years, the Camry has fewer complaints per vehicle than the industry average. However, some model years stand out as significantly worse than others.

Best Model Years (Fewest Complaints)

• 2020 to 2024 , Very few complaints, modern safety tech, excellent reliability
• 2012 to 2014 , Mature platform, most issues well-documented and resolved
• 2005 to 2006 , Bulletproof generation, minimal issues

Model Years to Avoid

• 2007 to 2009 , Higher engine oil consumption complaints, dashboard cracking
• 2018 , First year of new generation, typical first-year teething issues
• 2002 to 2003 , Transmission hesitation complaints, some engine sludge reports

Most Common Problems

Based on NHTSA complaint data, these are the most frequently reported issues:

1. Engine , Oil consumption, especially in 2007 to 2011 4-cylinder models
2. Electrical , Dashboard rattles, infotainment bugs in newer models
3. Transmission , Hesitation on older models, generally reliable on newer ones
4. Brakes , Brake pulsation/warping, relatively common but inexpensive to fix

Recall History

Toyota has issued recalls for airbag inflators (Takata), floor mat entrapment, and fuel pump issues. Most are well-addressed by now, but always verify with a free CarAdvisr report to check for open recalls on a specific vehicle.

Bottom Line

The Toyota Camry remains one of the most reliable sedans you can buy. Stick with the recommended model years, avoid first-year redesigns, and always run a risk report before purchasing.

Want to check a specific Camry? Run a free risk report , it takes 30 seconds and analyzes every complaint, recall, and TSB on record.