Toyota Camry Common Problems and Repair Costs

Oil Consumption — 4-Cylinder (2007–2011)

The 2AZ-FE 4-cylinder engine in 2007–2011 Camrys can consume up to 1 quart per 1,200 miles. Toyota settled a class action and extended the warranty on many affected vehicles. By now most of those extensions have expired. Check oil level at every fill-up on these model years.

6-Speed Automatic Shudder (2018–2019)

The 2.5L 4-cylinder Camry with the new 8-speed automatic in 2018–2019 had complaints about a torque converter shudder at low speeds. Toyota extended the powertrain warranty on some affected vehicles and issued updated transmission fluid. Ask about this at a test drive — shudder is felt as a light vibration between 25–45 mph on light throttle.

Water Pump Failure — V6 3.5L (2007–2011)

The 3.5L 2GR-FE V6 uses a timing chain but has an internal water pump driven by the timing chain. When the water pump fails on this engine, it must be accessed through the timing chain cover — a $700–$1,200 repair. Coolant leaks or overheating on high-mileage V6 Camrys should be investigated promptly.

What's Actually Great

The Camry's 4-cylinder automatic transmission is extremely reliable across all generations. The 2012–2017 generation (7th gen) is widely considered one of the most reliable Camrys ever made. The current 8th generation (2018+) addressed most issues from the initial rollout by the 2020 model year.

Best Years

• Best: 2012–2017 4-cylinder automatic
• Very good: 2020+ (shudder issues largely resolved)
• Watch: 2007–2011 4-cylinder (oil consumption), 2018–2019 (shudder warranty check)