The Toyota Camry is one of the most popular sedans in the USA today. And for good reason. This model generally provides excellent fuel economy, comfort, and reliability. Camrys have been providing services to a huge number of customers since their release in 1983.
However, not all Camrys are manufactured equally.
Some model years are better than others.
In this article, I have discussed the best and worst model years of the Toyota Camry, along with reasons why to choose or avoid them. Hopefully this will assist you in making your decision on purchasing a used Toyota Camry.
Best and Worst Years for Toyota Camry
According to my own experience and extensive research, the best model years to buy used are the 2006, 2011–2019, 2021, 2022, and 2023.
In contrast, the worst Toyota Camry model years to avoid are 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2010.
Let’s discuss the year models to avoid first and then we will move onto the best year models.
Toyota Camry Years to Avoid
Toyota Camry worst model years to avoid are:
- 2001 Camry
- 2002 Camry
- 2003 Camry
- 2005 Camry
- 2007 Camry
- 2008 Camry
- 2009 Camry
- 2010 Camry
Avoid 2001-2002 Toyota Camry
2001 and 2002 Camry model years have received a lot of user complaints.
Especially the 2002 Camry got 4 recalls and 1032 complaints, according to NHTSA research.
According to some independent automotive research, these model years have 3.75 out of 5.00 overall ratings.
Common Problems With the 2001-2002 Toyota Camry
- Acceleration issue
- Broken head bolts
- Broken transmission
- Engine issues
- Oil leakage
Avoid 2003 Toyota Camry
2003 Toyota Camry has several engine problems.
There are a few other minor issues with the 2003 Camry, but its engine issues make it the worst one.
According to the NHTSA, 2003 model year has 398 engine complaints and 310 other complaints.
Common Issues with the 2003 Toyota Camry
- Transmission acceleration issues
- Frequent check engine light illuminates
- Power steering pump problems
- Oil leaks
Avoid 2005 Toyota Camry
The 2005 Camry is more problematic than the previous model year, and its repair costs are also high.
A faulty throttle body is common in every 2005 Camry.
Along with the throttle body failure, sudden brake failure makes it difficult to control the 2005 Camry model year.
Common Issues with the 2005 Toyota Camry
- Engine issues
- Transmission failure
- Electrical issues
Avoid 2007 Toyota Camry
The 2007 Toyota Camry is one of the worst Camry model years in its history.
This model year has received the highest number of complaints.
The major problems with the 2007 model year are engine overheating and excessive oil consumption.
So, I advise avoiding this model year if you want to purchase a used Camry.
Common Issues with the 2007 Toyota Camry
- Frequent check engine light appears
- Incorrect transmission shifting
- Oil leaks
Avoid 2008 Toyota Camry
The 2008 Camry model year also has transmission and engine issues.
Unfortunately, the excessive oil consumption issue in the 2008 model year has not been resolved yet.
According to the NHTSA, the 2008 Toyota Camry had 8 recalls and 1070 complaints.
Some independent automotive organizations rated the 2008 Camry a 3.60 out of 5-star rating.
Common Problems With the 2008 Toyota Camry
- Transmission acceleration issue
- Lower fuel economy than other model years
- Oxygen sensor failure issue
Avoid 2009 Toyota Camry
Toyota Camry’s second-most problematic model year is 2009.
According to the NHTSA, this model year has been recalled 10 times for different issues.
JD Power gave the 2008 Camry 84 out of 100 points.
Common Problems with the 2008 Toyota Camry
- Excessive oil consumption
- Dashboard issues
- Acceleration issue
Avoid 2010 Toyota Camry
Despite some improvements, the 2010 Toyota Camry still has some major problems.
Engine and transmission issues still persist in this model year.
Therefore, the 2010 Camry is listed as one of the worst model years.
NHTSA reports that the 2010 Camry has been recalled 9 times for braking system defects.
JD Power gave the 2010 model year 84 points out of 100.
Common Problems with the 2010 Toyota Camry
- Rear window issue
- Oil consumption issue
- Dashboard melting issue
- Car’s speed limiter issue
Best Toyota Camry Years to Buy
The best Toyota Camry model years to buy are:
- 2022 Camry
- 2023 Camry
- 2021 Camry
- 2019 Camry
- 2018 Camry
- 2017 Camry
- 2016 Camry
- 2015 Camry
- 2014 Camry
- 2013 Camry
- 2012 Camry
- 2011 Camry
- 2006 Camry
2022-2023 Toyota Camry
The 2022 and 2023 model years are reliable and provide excellent service.
In terms of complaints and safety ratings, the 2022 model year is superior to the 2023 model year.
There have been no recalls in these model years, and only three complaints have been filed.
2021 Toyota Camry
The standard safety features and attractive exterior design of the 2021 Toyota Camry make it an excellent choice.
There are no recalls for this model year, and it receives zero complaints.
2017-2019 Toyota Camry
These model years have relatively well-performing vehicles that have received positive reviews from many automotive experts.
From 2017 to 2019, the 2018 Camry received some reports of braking problems, but overall, these model years are some of the most reliable that you can count on.
2014-2016 Toyota Camry
There’s a lot of demand for these model years because they’re cheaper than others.
These Camry model years get some recalls for common problems, but their overall reliability rating is acceptable.
The 2014–2016 Camry received an average reliability score of 87 out of 100 from JD Power.
2011-2013 Toyota Camry
Toyota improved many aspects of the 2011 model year and introduced a completely new Camry design.
In short, from the 2011–2013 model years, Toyota began to improve in all areas to offer one of the most outstanding models on the market.
Despite this, the 2011–2013 Camry has received numerous complaints regarding interior accessories, paint, and transmission.
As a result, some experts believe these model years should be avoided, whereas others believe they are relatively acceptable.
Overall, I think the 2011–2013 Toyota Camrys are good, but if a newer model than 2011–2013 is available, I will advise you to choose the new one.
Toyota Camry Problems Count by Year
According to CarComplaints.com, the Toyota Camry has received the following complaints per year.
| Model Year | Reported Problem |
| 2023 Camry | 01 |
| 2022 Camry | 00 |
| 2021 Camry | 00 |
| 2020 Camry | 10 |
| 2019 Camry | 19 |
| 2018 Camry | 93 |
| 2017 Camry | 29 |
| 2016 Camry | 46 |
| 2015 Camry | 78 |
| 2014 Camry | 90 |
| 2013 Camry | 58 |
| 2012 Camry | 150 |
| 2011 Camry | 175 |
| 2010 Camry | 160 |
| 2009 Camry | 485 |
| 2008 Camry | 256 |
| 2007 Camry | 1,022 |
| 2006 Camry | 47 |
| 2005 Camry | 125 |
| 2004 Camry | 59 |
| 2003 Camry | 150 |
| 2002 Camry | 192 |
| 2001 Camry | 47 |
| 2000 Camry | 30 |
FAQs
Which Camry is most reliable?
Camry model years from 2013 and later are the most reliable.
On average, Toyota Camry lasts around 200k miles to 300k miles.
These model years received the fewest user complaints, which demonstrated their reliability.
These model years have good safety and other ratings.
Is Corolla or Camry better?
In short, the Toyota Camry is better for power output, while the Toyota Corolla is better for fuel efficiency.
Toyota Camry’s starting price is higher than the Corolla’s.
Choose Corolla if you prefer fuel efficiency and a low budget, but choose the Camry if you prefer more horsepower and torque.
Is Camry or Accord better?
It depends on personal demands because there are significant differences between the Toyota Camry and the Honda Accord.
Toyota Camry provides more power than the Accord, but the Accord has more torque.
Honda Accord is better at fuel efficiency.
Honda Accord is only available in front-wheel drive, while the Camry offers AWD.
Consequently, the Toyota Camry is better for power-hungry enthusiasts, while the Honda Accord is better for fuel efficiency.
Is Camry worth buying?
The Toyota Camry is the best mid-sized sedan in terms of horsepower, comfort, fuel efficiency, control systems, and a quiet cabin.
Its safety ratings are pretty good.
Therefore, the Camry is very popular among users and worth buying.
Final Thoughts
The Toyota Camry has earned a reputation as a reliable and long-lasting sedan, and millions of cars have been sold because of this. Most of the more modern Camry model years are considered the best.
However, most of the Camry earlier year model are problematic, and you should avoid them and look to another model if your budget limits you to an older car.
Always remember that maintenance is essential, so properly maintaining your Camry will make it last much longer than you expected.
Until next time,
Will