Toyota Camry Years To Avoid | 22 Model Tested Facts & Figures

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Source: toyotavacaville

Toyota’s Camry is a fantastic midsize car for families that was first introduced to the public in 1983 and rapidly became a fan favorite. It has a high market value and is quite durable, making it an excellent family vehicle.

It’s true that Toyota, like the rest of the auto industry, occasionally had problems with the medium size car. Latter models improved upon those shortcomings, making the automobile more fun to drive overall, yet some models still have flaws.

Model years 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2002, and 2001 of the Toyota Camry are the Years To Avoid. The best Toyota Camry model years are 2023, 2022, 2021, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, and 2003. This conclusion was supported by reviews from the Edmund, Kelley Blue Book, and JD power ratings, recalls, and customer complaints report.

We have categorized these models into the worst and best categories based on the ratings. A rating below 4 stars lies under the worst cars category, and the rest will be considered the best Toyota Camry models.

Let’s look at the worst and best years for the Toyota Camry.

What Are The Toyota Camry Years To Avoid?

The Camry has been the target of some complaints over the years, despite its generally positive reputation for dependability.

These are the following cars you should avoid:

9- Worst Year: 2004 Toyota Camry (3.93 Rating)

Source: OSX /Wikipedia

The 2004 Toyota Camry is likewise plagued with problems. A dead battery is the most likely reason for your Toyota Camry’s starting troubles, followed by issues with the alternator and the starter.

Frequent Issues:

  • Engine light issues
  • Knock on the steering 
  • Bad head gasket and bolts

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2004 Toyota Camry got 3 recalls and 794 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2004 Toyota Camry got 4.6/5.0 Edmund reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2004 Toyota Camry got N/A consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2004 Toyota Camry got 4.7/5.0 ratings.

8- Worst Year: 2001 Toyota Camry (3.88 Rating)

Source: William / wheels.ca

Problems with the engine, fuel system, climate control, suspension, brakes, exterior and interior finish, and interior technology were common in this model year of the Camry.

We don’t recommend buying a Camry manufactured in 2001 because they’re notoriously unreliable.

Frequent Issues:

  • Engine light issues
  • Oil Leakage 
  • Damaged Engine

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2001 Toyota Camry got 5 recalls and 329 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2001 Toyota Camry got 4.7/5.0 Edmund reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2001 Toyota Camry got N/A consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2001 Toyota Camry got 4.6/5.0 ratings.

7- Worst Year: 2006 Toyota Camry (3.88 Rating)

Source: Ruel / Flickr

The 2006 Toyota Camry, released two years after the 2004 model and right after the disappointing 2005 model, didn’t come up with an excellent car; instead gave the audience another dreadful Toyota Camry model.

According to CarComplaints.com, the Toyota Camry model years 2006 has the most common problem of leaking head gasket.

Frequent Issues:

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2006 Toyota Camry got 5 recalls and 418 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2006 Toyota Camry got 4.7/5.0 Edmund reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2006 Toyota Camry got N/A consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2006 Toyota Camry got 4.7/5.0 ratings.

6- Worst Year: 2005 Toyota Camry (3.79 Rating)

Source: Donutmoder / Jamesmods

With the 2004 model, Toyota appeared to have found its ground, but with the release of the 2005 Camry, the company lost its edge, and the number of complaints rose again.

Toyota has ignored a severe issue with the engine’s abrupt and unexpected acceleration. It was difficult to control the vehicle because of a faulty throttle body, and the brakes might have been broken, also.

Frequent Issues:

  • Breaks didn’t stop the vehicle.
  • Damaged Engine
  • Transmission Failure.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2005 Toyota Camry got 5 recalls and 712 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2005 Toyota Camry got 4.6/5.0 Edmund reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2005 Toyota Camry got N/A consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2005 Toyota Camry got 4.7/5.0 ratings.

5- Worst Year: 2002 Toyota Camry (3.75 Rating)

Source: Jbcarpages

The 2002 Toyota Camry has been labeled “Beware of the Clunker” by CarComplaints.com owing to reports of issues with vehicle speed control, unexpected acceleration, and a non-responsive accelerator pedal.

Frequent Issues:

  • Broken transmission
  • Broken head bolts
  • Flaming engine

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2002 Toyota Camry got 4 recalls and 1034 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2002 Toyota Camry got 4.4/5.0 Edmund reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2002 Toyota Camry got N/A consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2002 Toyota Camry got 4.7/5.0 ratings.

4- Worst Year: 2010 Toyota Camry (3.72 Rating)

Source: Motortrend

There were several problems with the 2010 Toyota Camry models, but the most noticeable was an issue with the car’s speed limiter.

Some sources state that it was widely known that this model would speed up unexpectedly.

Frequent Issues:

  • Rear Window Shattered
  • Dashboard melting 
  • Excessive oil consumption

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

3- Worst Year: 2008 Toyota Camry (3.63 Rating)

Source: cars.usnews

According to CarComplaints.com, the Toyota Camry model year 2008 are “clunkers,” meaning they have several issues and manufacturing faults.

The most common problem here is excessive oil consumption.

Frequent Issues:

  • Excessive oil usage
  • Dashboard melting 
  • Engine light goes on, car lurches and dies.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

2- Worst Year: 2009 Toyota Camry (3.44 Rating)

Source: foothillsalesandleasing

Regrettably, several serious problems were observed by vehicle models outside of recall campaigns, resulting in numerous complaints from automobile owners.

A common annoyance was a sun visor that wouldn’t stay up, blocking the driver’s vision.

Frequent Issues:

  • Excessive oil usage
  • Sun visors cracking 
  • Dashboard melting

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

1- Worst Year: 2007 Toyota Camry (2.97 Rating)

Source: OSX / Wikipedia

Data from CarComplaints.com shows that the 2007 Toyota Camry is the most problematic model year on this list. The main concern mentioned here is the engine overheating and using oil at an abnormal rate, accompanied by a burning odor.

Frequent problems:

  • Excessive use of oil
  • Hot oil flames
  • Melting dashboard material

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

What Are The Best Cars Of Toyota Camry?

The models we’ve chosen to highlight here represent the pinnacle of Toyota’s offering of the dependable Camry. Here is the list of top Toyota Camry models one should consider while looking for a perfect Toyota Camry.

13- Best Year: 2011 Toyota Camry (4.07 Rating)

Source: Carvana.com

There were four distinct trim levels available for the 2011 model. It had excellent crash-test ratings for a vehicle of its class and a cheap base model with a quiet, comfortable cabin and numerous safety measures.

The updated 4-cylinder and V6 engine gave the automobile remarkable performance, while the design launched in 2010 was carried over to this model.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

12- Best Year: 2003 Toyota Camry (4.09 Rating)

Source: Automanager

The 2003 Toyota Camry checks off almost every box as American family sedans go. It has plenty of space, is very comfortable, and has numerous high-end amenities for safety and comfort. The only substantial modification for the 2003 Toyota Camry includes power-adjustable pedals.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2003 Toyota Camry got 1 recall and 811 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2003 Toyota Camry got 4.6/5.0 Edmund reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2003 Toyota Camry got N/A consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2003 Toyota Camry got 4.7/5.0 ratings.

11- Best Year: 2019 Toyota Camry (4.15 Rating)

Source: Chris / Caranddrive

It’s natural for older designs to lose some of their sparkle and appeal after a period. Thankfully, the 2019 Toyota Camry is a modern, latest-generation Camry that has the redesign it got for the 2018 model year but substantially improves on it to produce a premium vehicle that holds its own against its competition and, in certain levels, outperforms them altogether.

This model has five variations, most of which have a standard pricing point, with the XE series being the most expensive.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

10- Best Year: 2017 Toyota Camry (4.18 Rating)

Source: Autoblog

The 2017 Camry did not get many updates regarding aesthetics or standard equipment. Apart from the roof panel, the entire exterior was redesigned for the 2015 model year, making it more robust and adding improved infotainment features.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

9- Best Year: 2016 Toyota Camry (4.21 Rating)

Source: Seyth / Motor1

The 2016 Camry is also a reliable and low-risk option because of how few complaints it has received. Again, since the 2015 model year, not many changes have been made.

The Special Edition grade, based on the SE but featuring unique touches like smoked taillights, a sporty-looking instrument panel, and blue interior accents, is the only new addition to the lineup.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

8- Best Year: 2014 Toyota Camry (4.26 Rating)

Source: CarGurus

If you’re shopping on a tight budget, 2014 is a great option. Yet, the 2018 Camry is a superior car overall and comes with a new-car guarantee if you’re willing to spend the extra money.

It also has a few issues, the most common of which is a/c issues (including musty odors).

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

7- Best Year: 2012 Toyota Camry (4.27 Rating)

Source: Toyota

In 2012, Toyota introduced a completely redesigned Camry, ushering in a new lineup generation and propelling sales to new heights.

The improved braking, fuel efficiency, luxurious cabin, and sleek dashboard make for a relaxing and enjoyable driving experience. The result of all this effort is a reliable car for the household.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

6- Best Year: 2018 Toyota Camry (4.29 Rating)

Source: The wheel network / YouTube

2018 Toyota Camrys are some of the best compact to midsize car options. It received three 2018 Best Vehicle categories: Best Midsize Car for Families, Best New Cars for Teenagers, and Best Midsize Car for the Money.

Several 2018 Toyota Camrys had powertrain and braking problems, making driving a chore.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

5- Best Year: 2021 Toyota Camry (4.35 Rating)

Source: Jon Wong / Roadshow

Both its extensive standard safety features and bold exterior design make the 2021 Camry a strong contender. The base L model has been discontinued for the current year, making the LE the most cost-effective choice.

Little changes were made to the vehicle’s outward appearance, including applying new paint jobs and wheel styles.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

4- Best Year: 2015 Toyota Camry (4.37 Rating)

Source: Don / caranddrive

Among cheap midsize cars, the 2015 Toyota Camry is among the best in many respects and a top pick for many buyers. Apart from the roof panel, the entire exterior was redesigned for the 2015 model year, making it more robust and adding improved infotainment features.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

3- Best Year: 2013 Toyota Camry (4.37 Rating)

Source: Edmunds

If you are looking for an old model of the camry, the 2013 is your best bet. The 2013 Toyota Camry saw several significant revisions, most of which were made to the vehicle’s electronic components and user interface.

The blind spot monitoring system was upgraded this year to include a new standard 6-inch infotainment display screen, and the rear cross-traffic alert capability was included.

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

2- Best Year: 2023 Toyota Camry (4.47 Rating)

Source: toyotavacaville

There isn’t much of a change between the 2022 and 2023 models. However, the 2023 version adds extra driver-assistance features like automatic high beams and a front-facing camera that can read sure traffic signs and display them on the infotainment display.

Edmund Review:

“I love this car! I love this car. It is comfortable to ride in – both front seats and back. There is very little road noise. Although I have the smaller engine, it has plenty HP for what I need from a daily driver. Pano moon roof is a nice feature. The JBL stereo system is nice. As of now I have no complaints at all.”

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

1- Best Year: 2022 Toyota Camry (4.49 Rating)

Source: theautochannel

It’s no wonder that the newest models are at the top of the list; they have the most impressive specs, sophisticated interiors, and arguably the best exteriors. The 2022 Toyota Camry is most commendable among consumers, with more amazing reviews and fewer complaints than the 2023 model.

Edmund Review:

Great Car! “I upgraded to a 2022 SE from a 2019 SE. At the same time, the cars are the same. I appreciate some standard things you get in the 22 (heated mirrors with integrated turn signals, dual climate control, transmission drive modes, lane tracing assist).

Toyota gets the transmission tuning right in the 22. The car drives smoother and feels more buttoned down. The 19, while overall is a great car ( no problems at all), it didn’t have a smoothest transmission when moving at lower speeds. So far, very satisfied with the 22.”

Consumer Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2022 Toyota Camry got 0 recalls and 1 complaint.
  • Edmunds: 2022 Toyota Camry got 4.5/5.0 Edmund reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2022 Toyota Camry got 82/100 consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2022 Toyota Camry got 3.9/5.0 ratings.

Most Common Problems With The Toyota Camry

If you’re considering purchasing a Toyota Camry, I’ve compiled a list of the three most severe and frequent issues with this model year.

1. High Oil Consumption

That’s a problem with a few Camrys from every generation. Most 6th-generation models were notorious for their excessive oil consumption.

An engine that uses too much oil can still run the risk of exploding, which poses a danger to the vehicle’s other components, the lives of its occupants, and any nearby onlookers.

2. Transmission Issues

Camrys often had transmission problems, which included everything from complex shifting to complete transmission failure. Unpredictable acceleration and deceleration were also brought on by the transmission slipping in and out of gears.

3. Faulty Brakes

The brakes are the essential safety feature of any vehicle. Regrettably, there has been a long history of brake issues with the Camry series. It was generally observed that brake failure was widespread, and the brake pedals felt soft and squishy.

Sometimes it would be easy to press the brake pedal, but other times it would be tough. The brakes prefer not to operate or hold on for extremely long distances.

Conclusion

With good reason, the Toyota Camry is among the most popular sedans. Most models and items the company produces are incredibly high-quality and long-lasting.

Specific latest models, like the Camry 2022 and 2023, are the most reliable Toyota vehicles. While a few models in the lineup are bothersome at best and outright terrible at worst (like the 2007 Camry), there are still many excellent options to pick from.

Now you will be able to distinguish between the best and worst Toyota Camry years and pick the one that suits your needs.

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