What Year Camry To Avoid? What Are The Best Camry Years?

The Toyota Camry is a popular midsize sedan that has been on the market since 1982. It has gained a reputation for its comfortable ride, reliable performance, and modern tech features.

Over the years, several generations of the Camry have been released, and each one offers something unique. The last few decades have seen some of the best Camry years, with an array of features that make the car a great option for daily driving and long-distance road trips.

What Are The Best Years For The Toyota Camry?

1.     2011 Toyota Camry

The 2011 Toyota Camry is often regarded as one of the best years for this model. Drivers praised its solid construction and comfortable interior while noting an impressive array of safety features.

It came in 4 trims (L, LE, SE, and XLE) with engines ranging from a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder to a 3.5-liter 6-cylinder. Drivers also appreciated the availability of manual and automatic transmissions and their fuel efficiency.

The 2011 Toyota Camry is an impressive midsize sedan that remains popular among drivers today.

2.     2004 Toyota Camry

When it comes to the best Camry years, 2004 stands out as a particularly good option. This year featured significant improvements in performance and safety, including increased horsepower and improved airbags.

The 2004 Camry also had an updated exterior design, making it look more like a luxury sedan than the traditional model. Additionally, it was one of the first cars to offer convenience features like keyless entry and power windows, further increasing its desirability.

The six trims offered this year also gave buyers more options, allowing them to customize the vehicle to fit their lifestyle. All these features combined make the 2004 Toyota Camry a top contender for the best Camry years ever.

3.     2006 Toyota Camry

Reviewers regard the 2006 Toyota Camry as one of the best years for this popular sedan. The redesign features a longer wheelbase, and the vehicle was praised for its roomy interior and improved ride quality.

The 3.3L V6 engine offered good acceleration while achieving respectable fuel economy numbers. Safety ratings were also high with standard safety equipment such as six airbags and electronic stability control.

It also came with various modern technology features, including Bluetooth audio streaming. The 2006 Toyota Camry was well-loved by drivers and still holds up as one of the best years for this classic car.

Overall, the 2006 Toyota Camry is reliable, stylish, and safe, with great features. Its combination of performance and efficiency makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a sedan that can do it all.

4.     2010 Camry

You can’t go wrong with the 2010 Toyota Camry. It has a reliable engine, a comfortable interior, and plenty of standard features to keep you entertained. The cabin is roomy and spacious, with plenty of legroom for tall passengers in the back seat.

The V6 engine gives you ample power when accelerating on the highway while still getting great fuel economy. Safety features are abundant including nine airbags and an advanced brake system that helps reduce stopping distances. It also has an appealing exterior design for those who want something more stylish than the average sedan.

The resale value of the 2010 Camry is also high, making it a great investment if you plan on keeping the car for a few years.

5.     2012 Camry

This model year was a major change for the Camry, introducing more aggressive styling and an updated interior. The 2012 Toyota Camry is powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces up to 268 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. It features redesigned suspension and steering components to give it greater responsiveness while maintaining comfort.

It has improved safety features such as standard stability control and ten airbags. The Toyota Camry is considered one of the most reliable cars on the road, and this model year was no exception. You can find the 2012 Toyota Camry in 5 trim levels, each offering its features. It’s an excellent all-around car that offers reliability, comfort, and value.

6.     2013 Camry

After the success of the 2012 Camry, the 2013 Camry took it up a notch with its refined interior, improved handling, and better fuel economy. It also included more tech features, such as Toyota’s Entune infotainment system that could sync with mobile phones.

The changes were well-received by critics and owners alike. It’s no wonder the 2013 Camry was named one of the best cars of that year. Additionally, Consumer Reports gave it an overall score of 81 out of 100, making it one of their top picks.

It offers room for five passengers, smooth ride quality, and good fuel economy ratings. The cabin is also very quiet and features an intuitive infotainment system. Moreover, the 2013 model comes with more driver aids than previous years, including lane departure alerts and adaptive cruise control.

You can find a 2013 Camry with a four-cylinder engine or a V6. The four-cylinder is more fuel efficient and can get up to 25 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the V6 offers better power but lower fuel economy ratings of 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

7.     2019 Camry

The 2019 Camry was an excellent year for the Toyota Camry, with reviewers praising its efficient and powerful engines, smooth ride quality, comfortable interior, and plenty of standard features. It also has an updated look with a more angular design that gives it a sportier appearance.

The 2019 Camry is available in six trim levels, offering various engine options ranging from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder to a 3.5-liter V6. Inside, drivers will find plenty of amenities such as available heated seats, dual-zone climate control, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2019 Camry received two major updates: it dropped its old 6-speed automatic transmission for an 8-speed automatic and introduced the TRD performance trim. The TRD trim offers a sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch wheels, and improved brakes for added performance.

It’s a modern car with all the features you’d expect, and its fuel economy ratings are among the best in its class. Safety tech is also plentiful, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and a bevy of other driver assistance technologies.

8.     2020 Toyota Camry

When it comes to modern sedans, the 2020 Toyota Camry is a great choice. It has advanced technology, comfort, and safety features, making it one of the best Camry years ever released. Its exterior design is sporty and sleek, while inside the cabin, there is plenty of room for five passengers with supportive seats and plenty of legroom.

The 2020 Toyota Camry also comes equipped with standard driver-assistive safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, warning system, and automatic high beams.

Additionally, this model comes with Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and Wi-Fi Connect Powered by Verizon. In terms of powertrain options, the 2020 Toyota Camry offers an impressive 2.5-liter 4-cylinder paired with 8-speed automatic transmission for a smooth and comfortable ride.

You will be hard-pressed to find a better sedan than the 2020 Toyota Camry! With its advanced features, comfortable cabin, and powerful engine, this model is one of the best Camry years ever.

What Are The Worst Years For The Toyota Camry?

1.     2009 Camry

The 2009 models experienced various technical problems that caused them to be labeled one of the worst years for the Toyota Camry. One issue was with its V6 engine, which had an oil consumption problem that could cause it to fail suddenly and without warning.

The 2009 Camry also had issues with its brakes, including an increased risk of premature wear and cracking noises. Additionally, some 2009 models had suspension problems linked to a faulty rear strut mount design. Fortunately, Toyota took steps to address these issues through free recalls and extended warranties, making the later model years much better for vehicles than those from 2009.

2.     2007 Camry

This year was a bad year for the Toyota Camry. Reports of transmission problems, engine stalling, and other issues made it one of the year’s least reliable models. There were also reports of excessive oil consumption, power steering failure, and suspension issues.

The 2007 model came with a 6-speed automatic transmission with some inherent design flaws, leading to many transmission failures and huge repair bills. It is not surprising, then, that Consumer Reports rated this as one of the worst years for this generation of Camry.

3.     2003 Camry

The 2003 Camry had many problems, including transmission failure, engine stalling, and rattling noises from the interior. In addition, reports surfaced that some models were prone to sudden acceleration, which could be dangerous if left unchecked. All these issues caused owners to have to pay out-of-pocket costs for repairs and servicing—not ideal for a vehicle marketed as reliable and dependable.

This model year also had a recall over an issue with the front passenger airbag. The Takata-made inflator was declared defective and needed to be replaced under the manufacturer’s warranty. Still, due to its age, many owners could not take advantage of this free fix.

4.     2005 Camry

The 2005 Toyota Camry may have been the worst model year for this popular sedan. Many drivers experienced problems with the transmission, which caused jerky shifting, rough ride quality, and acceleration hesitation.

Other common issues included water leaks from the moonroof, unexpected braking system failure, electrical problems (interior lights flickering or not working correctly), and faulty fuel gauges. Fortunately, these issues can usually be remedied through regular maintenance and service visits.

5.     2014 Camry

This model year of the Camry was plagued with transmission issues, including delayed shifting and difficulty getting into gear. In addition, drivers reported powertrain malfunction warnings as well as checking engine lights coming on randomly.

The 2014 model also had several recalls for various parts, such as airbags, fuel pumps, and suspension arms.

6.     2015 Camry

The 2015 Toyota Camry received complaints from drivers about a rattling noise from the dashboard when braking or turning corners. Additionally, owners had to contend with problems with the steering system, which caused a “jerking” feeling in the wheel when driving at highway speeds.

There were also reports of defective brakes that made it difficult to stop quickly or safely in an emergency.

What Years Have The Most Complaints?

2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004 Toyota Camry are the years that have received the most complaints from consumers. Most of these issues involve poor performance, fuel economy, transmission problems, and electrical system issues.

Additionally, many owners of later-model cars (2007- 2009) have complained about suspension and handling problems. The 2008 Camry has also been the subject of several complaints due to poor reliability.

It is important to note that some of these issues may have been caused by improper maintenance or misuse, not necessarily Toyota’s defective parts.

The Toyota Camry has been one of the best-selling cars in the United States for many years, but Toyota is having difficulty keeping up with consumer expectations. The company has taken several steps to address customer concerns, such as offering extended warranties and changing the design of newer models.

Additionally, some owners have found success by having local mechanics perform preventive maintenance services on their vehicles.

What Problems Do Toyota Camrys Have?

The Toyota Camry is known as a reliable and dependable vehicle, but it has some issues that must be addressed.

Common problems include:

Transmission problems

The Toyota Camry is no exception when it comes to transmission problems. Many drivers have reported issues with their Toyota Camrys not shifting properly or jerking and shuddering while accelerating.

Other reports include a grinding noise when attempting to shift gears and rough shifts. These problems can be caused by worn-out components in the transmission system or low transmission fluid levels.

You must get your Toyota Camry regularly serviced to ensure there are no issues with the transmission system. Additionally, regular fluid changes can help reduce potential wear and tear on the components in the system, which can lead to costly repairs down the line.

Engine Problems

The Toyota Camry also has its fair share of engine-related issues. Some drivers report engine stalling or misfiring issues, which many underlying problems can cause. The most common issue is a faulty spark plug, leading to decreased fuel efficiency and overall performance.

Additionally, an intake manifold gasket leak can cause the Camry’s engine to overheat and put too much strain on the system. Regular maintenance can help spot potential issues before they become major problems.

Electrical Problems

Toyota Camrys are also known to have electrical issues such as malfunctioning power windows, doors, and locks and flickering headlights. In some cases, these issues may require professional assistance to diagnose and fix them properly.

Brake Malfunction Issues

The Camry also has brake issues, including decreased braking power and excessive noise. The root cause of these issues can vary from lack of lubrication on the brakes, to worn-out pads/rotors, and even air bubbles in the brake lines.

The best way to combat brake issues is through regular servicing by a certified mechanic, as this can help spot and address any potential problems before they become major issues.

What Are The Best Alternatives To The Toyota Camry?

1.     2022 Honda Accord

The Honda Accord is an excellent alternative to the Toyota Camry in terms of styling and comfort. The 2022 Honda Accord offers a sleek exterior design with a host of comfort features that make it one of the most desirable midsize sedans on the market. From its spirited engine power to its roomy interior, the Honda Accord has something for everyone.

2.     2021 Hyundai Sonata

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata is another great alternative to the Toyota Camry. It boasts an eye-catching aerodynamic profile and plenty of interior space for passengers and cargo alike. Its available turbocharged engine provides plenty of peps to get you where you need to go, while an array of driver assistance and safety features ensure you always have a safe journey.

3.     2021 Kia Optima

The 2021 Kia Optima is a great choice if you’re looking for a reliable sedan with plenty of value. It offers a comfortable ride and the convenience of many advanced technologies throughout the cabin. With its powerful engine options and stylish exterior design, the Kia Optima will ensure that you turn heads wherever your travels take you.

4.     2021 Nissan Altima

The 2021 Nissan Altima is another good option for those seeking an alternative to the Toyota Camry. Its sleek exterior and spacious interior provide excellent comfort and convenience on any drive. You can also count on the Altima to provide plenty of power, thanks to its available V6 engine. The Nissan Altima is a great choice for a reliable and stylish sedan.

What Are Some Typical Problems That Affect Toyota Camry Cars?

Toyota Camry owners may experience seemingly incessant transmission issues, shaking during motion, shift delays, high-pitched noises, conspicuous burning odors, and stalling may all point to shifting issues in the Toyota Camry realm.

Starter failure is another issue that regularly pops up for individuals who own these cars. If a Camry fails to start seemingly out of the blue, starter woes or a dead battery may be to blame. A problem with the alternator of the car may be to blame, too.

Brake malfunctioning difficulties, finally, are in many cases problematic for Toyota Camry owners. If the brakes of your Camry fail to respond, it may interfere with your control of the vehicle. If the ABS light of your Camry seems to perpetually switch on, then it may signify a brake malfunctioning issue that you should address without a second of hesitation.

Conclusion

The Toyota Camry is a reliable and comfortable sedan that has been popular with drivers for years. However, if you are looking for an alternative to the Camry, then the 2022 Honda Accord, 2021 Hyundai Sonata, 2021 Kia Optima, or 2021 Nissan Altima might be better options for you.

Each of these cars offers unique advantages and amenities best suit your needs. However, the Toyota Camry should remain a strong consideration for affordable and reliable sedans.