Most Common Failures of the Toyota Camry: Problems and Reliability
You can never go wrong with a Toyota Camry. Its agile handling, magnificent engine and comfortable interior make it one of the most reliable cars in its segment. But like every other vehicle on the market, it’s not perfect. Discover here everything about the common faults of the Toyota Camry .
Whether you’re planning to buy a Camry or already drive one, it’s helpful to have an idea about its reliability ratings and the most common problems you may encounter with it as it gains mileage.
How good is the Toyota Camry?
The Toyota Camry has a good reputation in terms of reliability . RepairPal gave it an above average rating of 4.0 out of 5.0, ranking it third out of 24 midsize vehicles.
Earlier-generation Camrys also scored well in this category. For example, RepairPal gave the 1998 Toyota Camry a reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.0. Meanwhile, JD Power named the Camry one of the highest-rated sedans by consumers from 2014 to 2016.
In addition to topping the charts for reliability, the Camry also has great safety ratings. For example, the 2021 model received a 5-star rating in the front and side crash safety categories from the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA) in the US . Earlier models also got good safety ratings. For example, the 2019 Camry earned an overall safety rating of 5 stars after earning perfect scores in all safety categories .
The Camry can have a useful life of up to 200,000 to 300,000 miles (321,800 to 482,800 kilometers). With proper care and maintenance, it can last up to 15-20 years. All these data show that the Toyota Camry is one of the best in its segment.
Reliability of the Honda Accord vs. the Toyota Camry
The Camry and Accord are two exceptional midsize sedans, which is why they are often compared to each other. Both top the list in terms of quality, value, popularity, and most of all, reliability.
RepairPal rated the Accord 4.5 out of 5, while the Camry, as noted above, received a 4.0 rating. The most obvious differences between these two models are the sportier feel of the Accord and the spacious rear seating area.
Common faults of the Toyota Camry
There is no doubt that the Camry is one of the best-selling Toyota vehicles on the market. However, just like any other sedan, it is not uncommon for it to develop common problems and faults as it ages.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common breakdowns and failures that Toyota Camry owners have encountered over the years:
1- Problems with air conditioning and heating
Several owners of the 2012, 2013 and 2014 Camry reported that they smelled something musty coming from their vents. In fact, a class action lawsuit was filed alleging that 2012 Camrys have faulty air conditioning systems that cause mold growth.
Most of the plaintiffs had their vehicle’s air conditioning serviced in an attempt to resolve the problem.
Some Camry owners have also complained that their air conditioning compressor stopped working or their air heater stopped blowing air. Luckily, these problems can be fixed by replacing the faulty component.
2- Failure of the torque converter
Torque converter failure is the most common problem involving the 2014 Toyota Camry. Owners of affected vehicles said they experienced the symptoms around 69,350 miles (111,600 kilometers).
Some customers have reported that their sedan suddenly shudders at very low or high speeds. Fortunately, this problem can be resolved by getting a replacement torque converter or, in some cases, the transmission.
3- Door lock malfunction
The most common problems with the 2011 Toyota Camry also have to do with the interior accessories of the model. Some Camry owners complained that their door locks were malfunctioning around 85,000 miles (136,700 kilometers). A door lock actuator replacement is usually the solution to this problem.
Aside from the door lock failures, there were also several complaints related to other interior parts and accessories. Some owners complained of sticky or melting dashboards and a faulty sun visor. Fortunately, all of these problems can be fixed by replacing the faulty components.
4- Damage to the rear window
Meanwhile, some 2010 Camry owners reported problems with their rear window . Most of the complainants said that their rear window was smashed. Based on the data from the reports, this usually happens around 47,750 miles (768,000 kilometers). The average repair cost for this issue is around $480 (may vary depending on which country you are in).
5- Excessive oil consumption
This problem seems common on several model years, and is most prevalent on 2007-2009 models. In fact, excessive fuel consumption is on the top list of problems for the 2007 Toyota Camry , making this year one of the worst for the Camry.
Excessive fuel consumption is one of the top 2009 Toyota Camry faults reported on CarComplaints.com , which logged at least 219 complaints related to the subject. The solution varies depending on the cause of the problem. The most common fixes include replacing faulty engine block oil pistons, and/or piston rings.
Toyota issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) in 2011 to acknowledge that some Camry models did consume excess oil, specifically those released between 2006 and 2011. In addition to replacing faulty engine components, this problem can also be fixed by rebuilding. the motor.
6- Transmission problems
Like most vehicles on the market today, the Camry is not spared from transmission-related problems. Some of the reported failures include transmission slippage , gear shift problems, and delayed engagement.
These transmission problems can vary depending on the model year. For example, the Toyota Camry’s gear shift problems for the 2002 model year were just a few. Meanwhile, hesitation when accelerating is on the top list of 2003 Toyota Camry problems.
The good and the bad of the Toyota Camary
Since you know the common faults of the Toyota Camary, but it is also good that you know the positive aspects that this vehicle has:
Advantages of the Toyota Camary
The most notorious pros or benefits of the Toyota Camary are the following:
1. Spacious cabin
The Toyota Camry, like a true family car, has enough room to fit everyone. It can accommodate up to five people comfortably and offers occupants plenty of head, shoulder and legroom. Taller people can also sit in the back or front with ease.
2. Impressive fuel economy
When buying estate cars, performance often has to be sacrificed to increase fuel economy. This is not the case with the Camry. The 2019 base model has a 4-cylinder engine that delivers 203 hp while returning an impressive 32 mpg (combined). It also offers a Hybrid that has even higher fuel economy ratings.
3. Comfortable seats
The seats in Camry models are plush and comfortable. In addition, they are well padded and offer lumbar support to avoid back pain.
4. Advanced security features
Families trust Camry models for their high safety ratings. The 2019 Camry model received high scores in NHTSA crash tests and is ranked as one of the safest vehicles in its class.
More importantly, all Camry models come with Toyota’s high-tech safety system known as the Toyota Safety Sense Package. Some of the security features of the TSSP include:
- Collision Warning System
- smart cruise control
- Lane change warning.
Other features like overhead parking cameras and blind-spot monitoring are optional.
5. Dynamic handling
While the Camry has been described as a “boring” car in the past, newer models offer sportier handling and precise steering ability.
For a Camry vehicle that’s both sporty and practical, opt for the sportier, higher trims like the Camry SE and Camry XSE models. These models have carefully modified suspension systems and tuned steering that offer an exceptional driving experience.
Disadvantages of the Toyota Camary
The drawbacks or cons that stand out the most about the Toyota Camary are:
- excessive oil consumption
- transmission faults
- brake malfunction
To end
These problems are not unique to Toyota Camrys. They also affect other Toyota models and vehicles. If you’re in the market for a Camry, know that there’s little risk in buying one, as long as you’re aware of potential problems it may have or develop.
