The Toyota Camry has a strong reputation for being reliable, comfortable, and long-lasting. Most people choose it because they want a car that can run for many years with little trouble.
Avoid buying certain Toyota Camry years, especially 2002, 2004, 2007–2009, 2010–2011, 2012, 2015–2016, 2018–2019. Four-cylinder models from 2007–2009 often burn oil, and late-cycle Camrys may have higher repair issues.
In this guide, you will learn the Camry years that are known for issues, what problems they had, and which years are better choices.
Quick Answer: What Toyota Camry Years Should You Avoid?
Here are the main Camry years that most experts and owners say to avoid:
- 2007
- 2008
- 2009
- 2002
- 2011
- Early 2012 models
These years reported more engine issues, more oil consumption, higher repair costs, and various interior problems. Not every car from these years is bad, but the risk is much higher.
Why Some Toyota Camry Years Are Problematic
The Camry has been through many generations. Some generations were excellent, while others had design flaws that created long-term trouble. Here are the main reasons certain years became unreliable.
Engine Design Problems
Some Camry engines, especially the 2.4L four-cylinder used around 2007–2009, were known to burn oil too quickly. This was a design issue with the pistons and piston rings.
Transmission Hesitation
Some model years suffered from transmission hesitation, slow shifting, or jerky movements, especially when accelerating from a stop.
Dashboard Melting
Heat caused dashboards in certain years to become sticky, soft, or cracked. Many owners reported this problem.
High Oil Consumption
This is one of the biggest reasons the Camry had bad years. Some cars burned a lot of oil between oil changes, even when maintained properly.
Complaints and Recall Patterns
Troubled years received far more complaints than others. These patterns help buyers understand which models are riskier.
2007 Toyota Camry – The Worst Year to Avoid
The 2007 Camry is often considered the most problematic year. It had several issues that affected engine life and driving comfort.
Oil Consumption Issues
The 2.4L engine in this model often burned oil very quickly. Many owners had to add oil every few hundred miles. If ignored, the engine could fail.
Transmission Problems
Shifting was rough in many cars. Drivers experienced slipping, hesitation, and delayed gear changes.
Cost of Repairs
Fixing the oil burning issue may require rebuilding the engine, which can be expensive. Transmission repairs can also cost a lot.
Common Complaints
Owners reported warning lights, power steering trouble, and noisy driving. Together, these problems make this year one to avoid.
2008 Toyota Camry – Continued Engine Trouble
The 2008 model carried over many of the same issues as the 2007 model.
Same Oil Burning Problem
Many drivers reported the same excessive oil use because Toyota used the same engine design.
Dashboard Melting
In warm areas, dashboards became sticky, cracked, or shiny. This is not a safety issue, but it is expensive to fix.
Reliability Rating
Compared to other years, the 2008 Camry received more complaints and required more repairs.
2009 Toyota Camry – Another Problematic Year
The 2009 model is slightly better than the 2007 and 2008 versions, but it still had several issues.
Oil Consumption
The oil burning problem continued for many cars. This could lead to engine wear if not monitored.
Electrical Issues
Drivers reported problems with sensors, power windows, and lighting systems.
Transmission Hesitation
Some owners felt jerks while driving or noticed delays when the car changed gears.
2002 Toyota Camry – Early Generation Issues
The 2002 Camry belonged to a new generation at the time, but early models had their own problems.
Overheating
This year faced overheating issues caused by weak head bolts. When the bolts failed, coolant leaked and the engine overheated.
Engine Failures
Some engines suffered major damage because of these cooling problems.
High Repair Bills
Fixing a head bolt problem is expensive, and many owners spent a lot of money on repairs.
2011 Toyota Camry – Mixed Reputation
The 2011 Camry is better than the 2007–2009 models, but it still has a few problems worth noting.
Steering and Suspension Problems
Some drivers heard clunking or felt looseness in the steering wheel.
Interior Quality Issues
The interior materials wore out quickly in some cars.
Oil Consumption
A small number of 2011 models also burned oil faster than normal.
Early 2012 Toyota Camry Models – Things to Watch
The 2012 Camry introduced a new generation. It was better than the older models, but early production units still had issues.
Suspension Noise
Some owners heard rattling in the suspension when driving on rough roads.
Steering Rattles
A few cars reported noise coming from the steering column.
Build Quality
Small build quality issues showed up in early versions before Toyota improved the later production units.
Most Common Problems in These Years
Across all the “years to avoid,” the problems fall into a few main categories.
1. High Oil Consumption
The biggest issue by far. Many engines used more oil than expected, which caused damage over time.
2. Transmission Slipping
Some cars had trouble shifting smoothly, leading to uncomfortable and risky driving.
3. Dashboard Melting
Heat caused dashboards to crack or melt, especially in older models.
4. Engine Overheating
In some years, cooling system issues caused overheating and engine failure.
5. Electrical Problems
Faulty sensors, power accessories, and warning lights were also common.
Best Toyota Camry Years to Buy Instead
If you want a reliable Camry, here are the years most experts recommend.
2013–2015
These years improved engine performance, reliability, and fuel economy.
2016–2017
These models received strong reliability scores and fewer complaints.
2018–2021
This newer generation focused on comfort, safety, and better engine technology.
Most Reliable Engine
The V6 engine is known for lasting a long time with fewer issues. The four-cylinder engines are also good in the safe years listed above.
Used Toyota Camry Buying Tips
If you still want to buy a Camry from one of the risky years, or any used car in general, follow these tips.
Check the Oil Level
A car with oil burning issues will often have low oil. Ask the seller how often they add oil.
Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection
A mechanic can check for engine leaks, transmission wear, and other hidden problems.
Review the Service History
A well-maintained Camry is always a safer choice.
Check Mileage
High mileage is not a problem if the car was cared for, but low-maintenance cars with low mileage can still have issues.
Toyota Camry Resale Value Insights
Camrys usually hold their value well, but problematic years lose value faster.
Why Bad Years Depreciate More
Cars with known issues scare buyers, so sellers lower the price.
How to Judge Fair Pricing
Look at the car’s age, condition, mileage, and repair history.
Signs the Car Has Been Abused
Check for worn tires, rough shifting, loud engine noise, or too many warning lights.
Toyota Camry Best Years
The best Toyota Camry years are generally 2013–2015, 2016–2017, and 2018–2021. These cars are reliable, have fewer engine or transmission problems, and offer better comfort, making them a safe choice for buyers looking for long-lasting vehicles.
Toyota Camry Reliability by Year
Toyota Camry reliability varies by year. Early 2000s and 2007–2009 models had engine or oil problems. Newer models after 2013 are more reliable, with fewer issues, better parts, and longer-lasting performance for everyday driving and resale value.
Best and Worst Years for Toyota Camry
The best Camry years are 2013–2017 and 2018–2021, while the worst are 2002, 2007–2009, 2010–2011, and early 2012. Problems include oil burning, transmission issues, and dashboard defects, so choose carefully when buying used.
Camry Years to Buy
For a worry-free Camry, buy 2013–2015, 2016–2017, or 2018–2021 models. They are reliable, have fewer repairs, and maintain good resale value. Avoid older models with engine, transmission, or oil consumption problems.
Toyota Camry Years to Buy Used
When buying used, focus on Camry models from 2013 onward. These years had fewer engine and transmission problems, better fuel efficiency, and improved interior quality. Avoid early 2000s, 2007–2009, and late-cycle models for safer choices.
5 Worst Toyota Camry Years to Avoid and 5 Years to Own
Worst years to avoid: 2002, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010. Best years to own: 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2018. Choosing the right year helps avoid oil burning, transmission problems, and high repair costs, ensuring reliability and long life.
FAQs
Are Toyota Camry Models All Reliable?
Most Camrys are reliable, but some years had engine, transmission, or oil problems. Always check the year before buying used.
What Camry Models Should I Avoid?
Avoid 2002, 2007–2009, 2010–2011, early 2012, and late-cycle models due to engine, oil, and transmission issues.
What Can I Do to Verify Whether to Purchase a Used Camry or Not?
Check service history, oil levels, engine condition, and get a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic before buying.
Can I Still Buy a Toyota Camry From a Year to Avoid if It’s Cheap?
Yes, but only if inspected carefully. Repairs for oil or transmission issues can be costly.
Best and Worst Camry Years?
Best: 2013–2017, 2018–2021. Worst: 2002, 2007–2009, 2010–2011, early 2012. Choose wisely to avoid major issues.
Is there a Camry model year I should avoid buying?
Yes, 2002, 2007–2009, 2010–2011, and early 2012. These years have more engine and maintenance problems.
Conclusion
The Toyota Camry is one of the most reliable and long-lasting cars, but not every year is trouble-free. Certain years, like 2002, 2007–2009, 2010–2011, and early 2012, had engine, oil, or transmission problems and may require costly repairs. Choosing the right year can save you money, time, and stress. The safest options are 2013–2015, 2016–2017, and 2018–2021, which offer better reliability, fewer repairs, and long-term comfort. Always check service history, get a pre-purchase inspection, and focus on well-maintained cars to enjoy a worry-free Camry experience.