The Toyota Camry is one of the best-selling cars in America for a reason. It’s comfortable, fuel-efficient, affordable to maintain, and has a long track record of dependability. For millions of drivers, it’s the definition of a sensible, reliable vehicle.
But even the Camry has its weak spots. Across different generations and model years, owners have reported a consistent set of issues that are worth knowing about – whether you already own one or are considering buying used. Some are minor. Others can lead to significant repair bills if ignored.
Here’s what Camry owners need to know.
1. Excessive Oil Consumption (2007–2011 Four-Cylinder Models)
This is the most widely reported and well-documented Camry problem of the past two decades. Owners of 2007–2011 Camrys equipped with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine reported that their cars were burning through oil at an abnormal rate – sometimes a quart or more every 1,000 miles.
Toyota acknowledged the issue and extended warranties for affected vehicles, but the fix wasn’t always permanent. Many owners continued to experience the problem even after repairs were made. Left unaddressed, excessive oil consumption can cause serious engine damage.
What to watch for: Oil levels dropping significantly between changes, blue smoke from the exhaust, or a burning smell from the engine bay.
2. Transmission Issues (V6 and Older Automatic Models)
Camry owners — particularly those with V6 engines and older automatic transmissions — have reported issues including rough shifting, hesitation, and in some cases, sudden lurching when accelerating from a stop. Transmission fluid breakdown and torque converter problems have been cited as contributing factors.
More recent Camry generations have largely addressed these concerns, but older models – particularly those from the early-to-mid 2000s – are worth inspecting carefully before purchase.
What to watch for: Hesitation or roughness when shifting gears, a shudder during acceleration, or a delay when moving from park to drive.
3. Dashboard Cracking (2007–2011 Models)
This one won’t affect how your Camry drives, but it’s a persistent cosmetic complaint. Owners of 2007–2011 models reported that the dashboard material was prone to cracking and warping – particularly in hot climates. Toyota faced a class action lawsuit over the issue and at one point offered dashboard replacement for affected vehicles.
If you’re buying a used Camry from this generation, inspect the dashboard closely. Replacement can be expensive if it’s not covered.
What to watch for: Visible cracks or warping across the dashboard surface, particularly along the top where sun exposure is greatest.
4. Power Steering Issues (2007–2011 Models)
Another issue concentrated in the 2007–2011 generation involves the electric power steering system. Some owners reported a stiff or unresponsive steering feel, particularly at lower speeds. In some cases the steering would require noticeably more effort than expected, making parking and low-speed maneuvering uncomfortable.
Toyota issued technical service bulletins addressing the problem, but not all owners found the fixes fully resolved the issue.
What to watch for: Stiff or heavy steering at low speeds, inconsistent steering feel, or a steering wheel that doesn’t return to center smoothly.
5. Brake Wear and Rotor Warping
Brake complaints are common across multiple Camry generations. Owners frequently report faster-than-expected brake pad wear, and rotor warping is a recurring issue – producing a pulsing or vibrating sensation through the brake pedal when stopping.
This is partly a function of the Camry’s weight and the brake pad compounds Toyota uses from the factory. Upgrading to higher-quality aftermarket pads and rotors is a popular solution among long-term Camry owners.
What to watch for: A pulsing feeling through the brake pedal, squealing or grinding when braking, or reduced stopping performance.
6. Water Pump Failure (2018–2021 2.5L Four-Cylinder Models)
Newer Camry generations equipped with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine use an internal water pump driven by the timing chain rather than an external belt-driven unit. While this design is more efficient, it also means water pump replacement is a significantly more involved – and expensive – repair when it does fail.
Owners of these models have reported water pump issues earlier than expected, and the repair can run $800 to $1,500 or more due to the labor involved in accessing the internal pump.
What to watch for: Engine overheating, coolant leaks, or a warning light indicating coolant temperature is running high.
7. Catalytic Converter Theft
This isn’t a mechanical defect, but it’s a very real problem for Camry owners, particularly those with older models. The Camry’s catalytic converter is relatively easy to access from underneath the vehicle, making it a frequent target for theft. Replacement catalytic converters can cost $1,000 to $2,500 or more.
If you park on the street or in unsecured lots, a catalytic converter shield is a worthwhile investment.
What to watch for: A sudden loud roaring or rattling noise from underneath the car. A stolen catalytic converter is immediately obvious when you start the engine.
8. Infotainment and Technology Issues (2018–2021 Models)
The infotainment system in 2018–2021 Camrys received mixed reviews from owners. Complaints ranged from a sluggish touchscreen response to Bluetooth connectivity problems and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto dropping connections unexpectedly. Toyota has released software updates addressing some of these issues, but they remain a source of frustration for some owners.
What to watch for: A slow or unresponsive touchscreen, frequent Bluetooth disconnections, or features that work intermittently.
Which Camry Model Years Are Most Reliable?
The 2012–2014 and 2015–2017 generations are widely regarded as among the most reliable Camrys ever built, largely free of the oil consumption and dashboard issues that plagued the previous generation. The 2022 and newer models have also received strong reliability scores and addressed many of the infotainment complaints of the 2018–2021 generation.
If you’re shopping used, the 2007–2011 generation deserves extra scrutiny: inspect for oil consumption history, dashboard condition, and power steering feel before committing.
What These Problems Mean for Your Wallet
Most Camry problems are manageable with attentive ownership. But water pump failures, transmission repairs, and catalytic converter replacements can each run well over $1,000 – and that’s before factoring in labor costs that vary widely by region.
The Camry’s reputation for reliability can actually work against owners in one specific way: because the car runs so well for so long, people sometimes get caught off guard when something does go wrong. A repair bill that would feel expected on a less reliable car can feel surprising on a Camry.
Protect Your Camry With Complete Auto Protect
If your Toyota Camry is out of its factory warranty, or approaching the end of it, a vehicle service contract from Complete Auto Protect can cover major mechanical repairs like transmission failure, water pump issues, and more. You’ve invested in a reliable car. Make sure that investment is protected.
Get a free quote for your Toyota Camry today.
A Great Car Gets Even Better With the Right Protection
The Toyota Camry earns its reputation. With regular maintenance and an awareness of its known weak spots, most owners enjoy years of trouble-free driving. But knowing what to watch for, and having coverage in place when something unexpected happens, means you’re never caught off guard.