Known for its legendary reliability, affordability, and longevity, the Toyota Camry has long been a favorite in the midsize sedan market. Over the past few years, the Camry has been the best-selling midsize sedan in the US, beating out the Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata. There is, however, a difference between each model year of the Camry. Others have faced their share of mechanical gremlins, even as some years have proven bulletproof. Our article covers the best Toyota Camry model years, which ones to avoid, and what makes certain models more reliable than others.
Data on reliability was obtained from the NHTSA, J.D. Power, and Car Complaints. Consumer feedback, as well as recalls and complaints, were considered. The article concludes with a list of credible sources. We will evaluate only models from 2000 to 2019 due to a lack of reliability data for earlier generations. Newer models are also excluded, as they haven’t been in the market long enough to accurately assess their reliability.
Toyota Camry History: A Favorite From The Start
From a compact sedan to the best-selling midsize sedan in the US, the Toyota Camry has evolved significantly since its debut. Engines ranging from 2.0-liter inline-fours to 2.5-liter V6s were available in the early generations (1983-1986) and second (1987-1991). By the third generation (1992-1996), the Camry adopted a more rounded design, adding safety features such as anti-lock brakes and dual airbags, while the fourth generation (1997-2001) improved interior space and engine performance, solidifying its reputation as a reliable all-rounder.
Camry’s popularity was maintained with enhanced safety features such as side-curtain airbags after its fifth generation (2002-2006). With the sixth generation (2007-2011), a hybrid option was introduced and fuel efficiency and upscale appeal were further refined. 7th generation (2012-2017) introduced sportier styling and Entune infotainment, while 8th generation (2018-2024) introduces the TNGA platform, which offers more dynamic handling and advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
The ninth-generation Camry was introduced by Toyota for the 2025 model year.The ninth-generation Camry was introduced by Toyota for the 2025 model year.
Toyota Camry: Generations And Key Specs
| Generation | Model Years | Engine Options | Transmission | Key Features |
| 1st Gen | 1983 – 1986 | 1.8L I4 Diesel, 2.0L I4, 2.0L I4 Diesel | 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic | A boxy design, an emphasis on fuel efficiency, and a front-wheel drive system |
| 2nd Gen | 1987 – 1991 | 2.0L I4, 2.5L V6 | 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic | The midsize segment is transitioning to a larger size, improved comfort, and improved performance |
| 3rd Gen | 1992 – 1996 | 2.2L I4, 3.0L V6 | 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic | It features rounded corners, improved aerodynamics, dual airbags, and anti-lock brakes |
| 4th Gen | 1997 – 2001 | 2.2L I4, 3.0L V6 | 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic | The interior is larger, sound insulation is improved, and the Camry Solara is introduced |
| 5th Gen | 2002 – 2006 | 2.4L I4, 3.0L V6, 3.3L V6 | 5-speed manual, 4- or 5-speed automatic | Redesigned with side-curtain airbags and stability control |
| 6th Gen | 2007 – 2011 | 2.4L I4 Hybrid, 2.5L I4, 3.3L V6, 3.5L | 5- or 6-speed automatic, 5- or 6-speed manual | Lines that are more sharp, hybrid version introduced, interior that is more upscale |
| 7th Gen | 2012 – 2017 | 2.5L I4, 3.5L V6, 2.5L I4 Hybrid | 6-speed automatic, CVT | Design with a sportier feel, Entune infotainment system, improved safety features, and no manual switching |
| 8th Gen | 2018 – 2024 | 2.5L I4 Hybrid, 2.5L I4, 3.5L V6 | 8-speed automatic, CVT | The TNGA platform offers a dynamic driving experience with advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, as standard |
| 9th Gen | 2025- | 2.5L inline-4 hybrid | eCVT | Hybrid powertrains are available for the first time in a Camry |
The Best Toyota Camry Models
These Toyota Camry models have been praised for their minimal complaints, no recalls, and excellent reliability records according to NHTSA and Car Complaints data. It’s best to purchase a Toyota Camry from these model years if you’re looking for a reliable used car.
2001 Toyota Camry
To date, there have been very few recalls for the 2001 Toyota Camry, according to the NHTSA. It was available with either a 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.0-liter V6, both of which were known for their durability and smooth performance. With its simple yet effective design, the 2001 Camry is well regarded for its long-term reliability. It is a fantastic choice for buyers seeking reliability on a budget, with many owners reporting exceeding 200,000 miles with routine maintenance.
2013 Toyota Camry
Toyota’s 2013 Camry is another top performer when it comes to reliability, with the NHTSA database showing a minimal number of recalls and complaints.
It continued to improve on safety and interior features during its seventh generation. It was available with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine as well as a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 as well as a hybrid option. With its fuel efficiency and quiet, comfortable ride, the 2013 Camry is an excellent midsize sedan for families and commuters. It is one of the best years for the Toyota Camry because of its reputation for reliability.
2020 Toyota Camry
Toyota’s 2020 Camry showcases the company’s commitment to quality and reliability. Its reputation for reliability is further solidified by the NHTSA’s report that the 2020 Camry has only five recalls across all models. The 2020 Camry features a host of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking, all based on Toyota’s TNGA platform. 2020 Camrys come with four-cylinder and V6 engine options, catering to drivers who seek performance without compromising on reliability.
Toyota Camry Years To Avoid
There are some model years of the Toyota Camry that have recurring issues, making them worth avoiding. The following Camry years have been associated with significant mechanical problems, high recall rates, and frequent complaints, according to Car Complaints and the NHTSA.
2007 Toyota Camry
In severe cases, excessive oil consumption on the 2007 Toyota Camry has led to engine damage. Car Complaints reports that many owners report excessive oil consumption, sometimes leading to engine failure. Although it was popular at first, the 2007 Camry has a poor reputation for reliability due to a long list of problems. A used Toyota Camry from this model year should be avoided if you’re looking for one.
2008 Toyota Camry
Similarly to the 2007 and 2009 models, the 2008 Toyota Camry consumes excessive oil. There were many complaints and recalls related to this problem, making it another unreliable year for the Camry. A well-maintained or replaced engine is the best way to find a dependable used Toyota Camry.
2009 Toyota Camry
Toyota
A significant problem with excessive oil consumption plagued the 2009 gasoline-powered Camry, as it did the 2007 model. There were many complaints logged on both the NHTSA and Car Complaints databases regarding this problem. The 2009 Camry Hybrid is surprisingly reliable, but its gasoline version should be avoided unless the previous owner has addressed its oil consumption issue.
| Camry Model Years With The Most Complaints | |
| Model Year | NHTSA Complaints |
| 2007 | 3,588 |
| 2009 | 1,387 |
| 2008 | 1,165 |
| 2002 | 1,041 |
| 2003 | 812 |
| 2004 | 797 |
| 2005 | 715 |
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Conclusion
You should choose used Toyota Camrys with high reliability ratings and few problems if you’re looking for one.
Models from 2001, 2014, and 2020 are top choices since they have no recalls or complaints. Performance, safety, and long-term dependability are all incorporated into these models. However, gasoline models manufactured in 2007, 2008, and 2009 are known for excessive oil consumption and other engine-related problems.
