With its legendary reliability, affordability, and reputation for longevity, the Toyota Camry has long been a favorite among midsize sedans. Among midsize sedans in the US, the Camry has outsold the Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata for some time now.
There are, however, differences between model years of the Camry. While some years have been nearly bulletproof, others have encountered mechanical gremlins. This article examines the best Toyota Camry model years, the best years to avoid, and the factors that make certain models more reliable than others.
Several sources of reliability data have been used, including the NHTSA, J.D. Power, and Car Complaints. Consumer surveys and recalls have been taken into account, as well as complaints and recalls. At the end of the article, a list of authoritative sources is provided. Sadly, older Camry generations do not have reliable data, so only models from 2000 to 2019 will be evaluated. Models from 2020 and newer are also excluded since they haven’t been on the market for a long enough time to be able to judge their reliability accurately.
Toyota Camry History A Favorite From The Start
From a compact sedan to the US’s top-selling midsize sedan, the Toyota Camry has evolved significantly since its debut. With engines ranging from a 2.0-liter inline-four to a 2.5-liter V6, the early generations focused on fuel efficiency and practicality.
It was redesignated by the third generation (1992-1996), adding safety features such as anti-lock brakes and dual airbags, while the fourth generation (1997-2001) improved interior space and engine performance, cementing its reputation as a reliable all-rounder.
The Camry maintains its bestseller status with a bolder design and advanced safety features like side-curtain airbags from generation five (2002-2006). During the sixth generation (2007-2011), a hybrid option was introduced, as well as further refinements to the fuel economy and upscale appeal of the vehicle.
With the seventh generation (2012-2017), sportier styling and the Entune infotainment system were introduced, and with the eighth generation (2018-2024), TNGA platforms were introduced, which improved handling and offered advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist.
Last but not least, Toyota introduced the 9th-generation Camry for 2025.
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 | Boxy design, fuel efficiency focus, front-wheel drive |
| 2nd Gen | 1987 – 1991 | 2.0L I4, 2.5L V6 | 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic | Larger size, improved comfort, midsize segment transition |
| 3rd Gen | 1992 – 1996 | 2.2L I4, 3.0L V6 | 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic | Rounded design, enhanced aerodynamics, dual airbags, anti-lock brakes |
| 4th Gen | 1997 – 2001 | 2.2L I4, 3.0L V6 | 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic | Larger interior, improved sound insulation, introduction of Camry Solara |
| 5th Gen | 2002 – 2006 | 2.4L I4, 3.0L V6, 3.3L V6 | 5-speed manual, 4- or 5-speed automatic | Bold redesign, side-curtain airbags, 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 | Sharper lines, introduction of hybrid version, upscale interior |
| 7th Gen | 2012 – 2017 | 2.5L I4, 3.5L V6, 2.5L I4 Hybrid | 6-speed automatic, CVT | Sportier design, Entune infotainment, improved safety features, no more manual |
| 8th Gen | 2018 – 2024 | 2.5L I4 Hybrid, 2.5L I4, 3.5L V6 | 8-speed automatic, CVT | TNGA platform, dynamic driving experience, standard advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control |
| 9th Gen | 2025- | 2.5L inline-4 hybrid | eCVT | First Camry to feature exclusively hybrid powertrains |
The Best Toyota Camry Models
The following Toyota Camry models have earned praise for their lack of recalls, minimal complaints, and excellent reliability records from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). You can find the best reliability in these model years if you’re looking for a used Toyota Camry.
2001 Toyota Camry
In accordance with the NHTSA, the 2001 Toyota Camry remains one of the most reliable Camry models to date. In this model, part of the fourth generation, you could choose between a 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.0-liter V6, both of which were known for their smooth performance and durability. It provides years of trouble-free driving thanks to its simple yet effective design. This is a great choice for buyers looking for reliability at a reasonable price, since many owners report exceeding 200,000 miles with routine maintenance.
2013 Toyota Camry
Toyota
Another top performer in terms of reliability, the 2013 Toyota Camry has minimal recalls and complaints on the NHTSA database. This model continued to improve on safety and interior features as part of the seventh generation. There were three engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 3.5-liter V6, and a hybrid. This midsize sedan excels in fuel efficiency and offers a quiet, comfortable ride, making it an excellent choice for families and commuters. For Toyota Camry, it was one of its best years because of its reputation for reliability.
2020 Toyota Camry
Toyota USA
With the 2020 Toyota Camry, Toyota continues to demonstrate its commitment to quality and reliability. Among all models of the 2020 Camry, there have only been five recalls, further cementing its reputation for reliability. It features a host of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and auto emergency braking, thanks to Toyota’s TNGA platform. This 2020 Camry caters to drivers looking for performance without sacrificing reliability with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder or 3.5-liter V6.
Toyota Camry Years To Avoid
There are some model years of the Toyota Camry that have recurring issues, so it would be wise to avoid them if they are available. As determined by Car Complaints and the NHTSA, the following Camry years have been associated with high recall rates, serious mechanical problems, and a high number of complaints.
2007 Toyota Camry
Toyota
Oil consumption issues are notorious for the 2007 Toyota Camry, which can cause severe engine damage. Several owners reported their engines were consuming oil at an alarming rate, sometimes resulting in engine failure, according to Car Complaints. Its initial popularity was tempered by a long history of reliability issues that earned it a poor reputation. This is a model year to avoid when looking for a used Toyota Camry.
2008 Toyota Camry
Toyota
As with the 2007 and 2009 models, the 2008 Toyota Camry consumes excessive amounts of oil. In another unreliable year for the Camry, many complaints and recalls resulted from this problem. When looking for a reliable used Toyota Camry, you should steer clear of the 2008 model unless the engine has been well-maintained.
2009 Toyota Camry
Toyota
There were similar issues with excessive oil consumption on the 2009 gas-powered Camry as on the 2007 model. NHTSA and Car Complaints both logged many complaints regarding this problem, which often resulted in engine failure. Camry Hybrids are surprisingly reliable, but gasoline versions should be avoided unless the previous owner has addressed oil consumption issues.
| 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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Summary: Avoid Early Sixth-Gen Models
It’s best to look for used Toyota Camrys with strong reliability ratings and minimal issues if you’re looking for a used model. Due to their track records of zero recalls and complaints, the 2001, 2014, and 2020 models are top choices. Designed for long-term dependability, these models offer the perfect combination of performance, safety, and reliability. However, gasoline models from 2007, 2008, and 2009 should be avoided due to excessive oil consumption and other engine-related problems.