Toyota Camry research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide
The Camry is a comfortable, roomy and famously easy-to-own midsize sedan. 2012-2017 models are proven and affordable, 2017 adds standard Toyota Safety Sense, and the 2018 redesign brought sharper styling, an 8-speed automatic, a 301-hp V6 and a hybrid rated over 50 mpg. AWD arrived for 2020, and from 2025 every Camry is a hybrid rated up to about 51 mpg combined.
Model years covered: 2011–2026. The 2025-2026 Camry is hybrid-only; verify 2026 trims, specs and pricing against current Toyota data.
Last updated 2026-10-15.
Strengths
- Strong reliability reputation
- High resale value
- Excellent hybrid fuel economy
- Comfortable ride and roomy cabin
- Standard toyota safety sense 2017 and later
- Strong 301 hp V6 2018 2024
- Available AWD 2020 and later
Things to know before you buy
- Used prices are higher than rivals
- 8 speed shift complaints on some 2018 and later
- V6 and gas only models end after 2024
- AWD not available with V6
- Many former rental and fleet cars
- Recall status should be checked by VIN
Generations
Generation 6 (2007–2011)
The sixth generation offered a 2.5L four (169-179 hp), a 268-hp 3.5L V6 with a 6-speed automatic, and a 187-hp 2.4L Camry Hybrid.
Buyer takeaway: Inexpensive and proven; buy on condition and maintenance.
Generation 7 (2012–2017)
The seventh generation used a 178-hp 2.5L and 268-hp V6 with a 6-speed automatic, plus a 200-hp 2.5L hybrid (about 43/39 mpg LE). The 2015 refresh redid nearly all exterior panels and added the XSE, and 2017 made Toyota Safety Sense P standard.
Buyer takeaway: Great value used sedans; 2015-2017 for the refresh and 2017 for standard safety tech.
Generation 8 (2018–2024)
The eighth generation brought TNGA underpinnings, a 203-hp 2.5L with an 8-speed, a 301-hp V6 and a 208-hp hybrid rated about 51/53 mpg; AWD and the TRD arrived for 2020 and the 2021 refresh added Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ and new screens.
Buyer takeaway: Choose 2021-2024 for the refresh and safety updates, a V6 for performance, or the hybrid for mpg.
Generation 9 (2025–present)
The ninth generation is hybrid-only with 225 hp (FWD) or 232 hp (electric AWD), rated up to about 51 mpg combined, with standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 and an updated cabin.
Buyer takeaway: The best choice for efficiency and newest tech; no V6 or gas-only version is offered.
Toyota Camry by model year
2026 Toyota Camry
The 2026 Camry continues the hybrid-only ninth generation with 225 hp (FWD) or 232 hp (AWD), rated up to about 51 mpg combined in LE form, and standard Toyota Safety Sense. The SE Nightshade Edition returns with black trim and wheels. Verify 2026 trims and pricing against current Toyota data.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 225 hp FWD; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 232 hp AWD
- Transmissions: Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive electric rear motor
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- Nightshade edition returns on the se
- New paint colors
- Largely carryover
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Hybrid system warning lights; Warranty status and in service date; AWD system operation if equipped; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2025 Toyota Camry
The 2025 Camry is all-new and hybrid-only: every model uses a 2.5L hybrid with 225 hp (FWD) or 232 hp with the new electric all-wheel drive. The LE is rated about 51 mpg combined; sportier and AWD trims about 43-47. Standard safety includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise and blind-spot monitoring. Trims are LE, SE, XLE and XSE.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 225 hp FWD; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 232 hp AWD
- Transmissions: Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive electric rear motor
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- All new ninth generation
- Hybrid only lineup gas only and V6 dropped
- All wheel drive hybrid available for the first time
- Toyota safety sense 3 0 standard
- Standard 7 inch digital cluster 12 3 inch screens available
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Hybrid system warning lights; Warranty status and in service date; AWD system operation if equipped; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2024 Toyota Camry
The 2024 Camry continues the refreshed eighth generation: a 203-hp 2.5L four (about 28/39 mpg, AWD optional), a 301-hp V6 in XLE, XSE and TRD, or the 208-hp Hybrid (about 51/53 mpg LE), with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ standard. It is the last year of the V6, the TRD and gas-only Camrys before the 2025 hybrid-only redesign.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 203 hp 184 lb ft 206 hp xse; 3.5 liter V6 301 hp 267 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 208 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive 2.5 liter only
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- Last year of the eighth generation
- Last year of the V6 and trd
- Last non hybrid camry
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; AWD system operation if equipped; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2023 Toyota Camry
The 2023 Camry continues the refreshed eighth generation: a 203-hp 2.5L four (about 28/39 mpg, AWD optional), a 301-hp V6 in XLE, XSE and TRD, or the 208-hp Hybrid (about 51/53 mpg LE), with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ standard. It is one of the most proven midsize sedans; check recalls by VIN.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 203 hp 184 lb ft 206 hp xse; 3.5 liter V6 301 hp 267 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 208 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive 2.5 liter only
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- Largely carryover of the 2021 refresh
- Trim and package changes verify by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; AWD system operation if equipped; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2022 Toyota Camry
The 2022 Camry continues the refreshed eighth generation: a 203-hp 2.5L four (about 28/39 mpg, AWD optional), a 301-hp V6 in XLE, XSE and TRD, or the 208-hp Hybrid (about 51/53 mpg LE), with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ standard. It is one of the most proven midsize sedans; check recalls by VIN.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 203 hp 184 lb ft 206 hp xse; 3.5 liter V6 301 hp 267 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 208 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive 2.5 liter only
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- Largely carryover of the 2021 refresh
- Trim and package changes verify by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; AWD system operation if equipped; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2021 Toyota Camry
The 2021 refresh brought a revised front end, a new floating 7- or 9-inch touchscreen and Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which adds detection of vehicles and pedestrians during left turns at intersections. Engines continue: 203-hp four (about 28/39 FWD, AWD available), 301-hp V6 (22/33) and the 208-hp Hybrid (about 51/53 LE).
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 203 hp 184 lb ft 206 hp xse; 3.5 liter V6 301 hp 267 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 208 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive 2.5 liter only
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- Revised front fascia and grilles
- Toyota safety sense 2 5 plus standard
- New floating 7 or 9 inch touchscreen
- Cd player dropped
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; AWD system operation if equipped; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2020 Toyota Camry
For 2020 Toyota added all-wheel drive to most four-cylinder trims (about 25/34 mpg) and a sporty V6-powered TRD with lowered suspension and bigger brakes. Android Auto joined Apple CarPlay. The 203-hp four (FWD about 28/39), 301-hp V6 and 208-hp Hybrid continue. AWD is not offered with the V6 or Hybrid.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 203 hp 184 lb ft 206 hp xse; 3.5 liter V6 301 hp 267 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 208 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive 2.5 liter only
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- All wheel drive available on most four cylinder trims
- Sporty trd trim added with V6
- Android auto added
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; 8 speed automatic shift quality; AWD system operation if equipped; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2019 Toyota Camry
The 2019 Camry carries over the 2018 redesign with a 203-hp 2.5L four, a 301-hp V6 or the 208-hp Hybrid (about 51/53 mpg LE). Apple CarPlay arrived this year; Android Auto followed for 2020. Toyota Safety Sense P is standard. Check 8-speed shift quality, and confirm open recalls by VIN.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 203 hp 184 lb ft 206 hp xse; 3.5 liter V6 301 hp 267 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 208 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- Apple carplay added to entune 3 0
- Largely carryover from 2018
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2018 Toyota Camry
The 2018 Camry was all-new with sharper styling and handling. A new 203-hp 2.5L four (206 hp in XSE) with an 8-speed automatic is rated up to about 29/41 mpg, the V6 rose to 301 hp, and the 208-hp Hybrid LE reaches about 51/53 mpg. Toyota Safety Sense P is standard. Some owners report rough 8-speed shifts; a road test is key.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 203 hp 184 lb ft 206 hp xse; 3.5 liter V6 301 hp 267 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 208 hp combined
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- All new eighth generation on tnga platform
- New dynamic force 2.5 liter and 8 speed automatic
- V6 rises to 301 hp
- Hybrid le rated about 51 53 mpg
- Toyota safety sense p standard
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2017 Toyota Camry
The 2017 Camry is the last of the seventh generation and made Toyota Safety Sense P standard, adding pre-collision braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, automatic high beams and radar cruise. Engines carry over: 178-hp 2.5L, 268-hp V6 or 200-hp Hybrid. It is a strong value versus the redesigned 2018.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 178 hp 170 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 268 hp 248 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 200 hp combined
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- Toyota safety sense p made standard
- Last year of the seventh generation
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; V6 water pump and coolant leaks if V6; Toyota safety sense sensors and windshield camera; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2016 Toyota Camry
The 2016 Camry carries over the refreshed 2015 car with a 178-hp 2.5L four, 268-hp V6 or 200-hp Hybrid. The four-cylinder is rated about 25/35 mpg and the Hybrid LE about 42-43 city. Driver aids such as pre-collision braking were optional on some trims, so check equipment by VIN. It is a well-proven, easy-to-own sedan.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 178 hp 170 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 268 hp 248 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 200 hp combined
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2015
- Special edition and package updates verify by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; V6 water pump and coolant leaks if V6; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2015 Toyota Camry
The 2015 Camry got a big refresh: an almost completely redesigned exterior, a freshened interior, and revised steering, brakes and suspension, plus a sporty XSE trim. Engines carry over: a 178-hp 2.5L (about 25/35 mpg), a 268-hp V6 (21/31), and the 200-hp Hybrid (about 43/39 LE), all with 6-speed automatics except the hybrid.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 178 hp 170 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 268 hp 248 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 200 hp combined
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- Nearly all new exterior sheetmetal
- Freshened interior and technology
- Revised steering brakes and suspension
- Sporty xse trim added
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; V6 water pump and coolant leaks if V6; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2014 Toyota Camry
The 2014 Camry carries over the 2012 redesign: a 178-hp 2.5L four (about 25/35 mpg) or 268-hp 3.5L V6 with a 6-speed automatic, or the 200-hp Camry Hybrid rated about 43/39 mpg (LE). It is roomy, comfortable and efficient. On a hybrid, confirm battery health; on a V6, check for coolant leaks.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 178 hp 170 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 268 hp 248 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 200 hp combined
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Trim and feature updates verify by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; V6 water pump and coolant leaks if V6; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2013 Toyota Camry
The 2013 Camry carries over the 2012 redesign: a 178-hp 2.5L four (about 25/35 mpg) or 268-hp 3.5L V6 with a 6-speed automatic, or the 200-hp Camry Hybrid rated about 43/39 mpg (LE). It is roomy, comfortable and efficient. On a hybrid, confirm battery health; on a V6, check for coolant leaks.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 178 hp 170 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 268 hp 248 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 200 hp combined
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Trim and feature updates verify by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; V6 water pump and coolant leaks if V6; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2012 Toyota Camry
The 2012 Camry was all-new, with a 178-hp 2.5L four (about 25/35 mpg) or a 268-hp 3.5L V6 (21/30), both with a 6-speed automatic. The Camry Hybrid moved to a 2.5L with 200 hp combined and jumped to about 43/39 mpg in LE form. Cabin quietness and rigidity improved. It is a dependable-feeling, roomy sedan with low running costs.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 178 hp 170 lb ft; 3.5 liter V6 268 hp 248 lb ft; 2.5 liter I4 hybrid 200 hp combined
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- All new seventh generation
- Hybrid switches to 2.5 liter and gains about 30 percent mpg
- Quieter more rigid body
- Entune infotainment introduced
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; V6 water pump and coolant leaks if V6; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2011 Toyota Camry
The 2011 Camry is the last of the sixth generation (2007-2011). Most have a 169-hp 2.5L four (179 hp in the SE) with a 6-speed automatic, rated about 22/32 mpg; a 268-hp 3.5L V6 and a 187-hp 2.4L Camry Hybrid (about 31/35 mpg) were also offered. It is a proven, comfortable sedan; condition and maintenance matter most now.
- Engines: 2.5 liter I4 169 hp 179 hp se; 3.5 liter V6 268 hp; 2.4 liter I4 hybrid 187 hp combined
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; 6 speed manual base and se 4 cylinder verify by VIN; Ecvt hybrid
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- Last year of the sixth generation
- Camry hybrid sold alongside
- Smart key and feature updates verify by VIN
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and trim by VIN; Hybrid battery health and cooling fan if hybrid; Hybrid system warning lights if hybrid; V6 water pump and coolant leaks if V6; Dashboard condition in hot climates; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
Known issues and what to check
- Hybrid Battery and System Health on Older Hybrids (2011–2024)
Camry Hybrids have a strong durability record, but older, high-mileage hybrids can need a hybrid battery or inverter-related repair, and the battery cooling fan intake can clog with dust or pet hair. Toyota's hybrid component warranty may still apply to newer cars.
What to do: Have a Toyota dealer or hybrid specialist check the hybrid system on an older Camry Hybrid. - 8-Speed Automatic Shift Quality (2018+) (2018–2024)
Some owners of 2018-2019 and later gas Camrys report harsh, delayed or hesitant shifts from the 8-speed automatic, particularly at low speed. Software updates have addressed some cases. It is a drivability concern rather than a common failure.
What to do: Road test in city traffic and ask a Toyota dealer whether updates apply. - 3.5L V6 Water Pump and Coolant Leaks (2011–2024)
The 3.5L V6 is strong and long-lived, but high-mileage engines can develop water pump leaks. It is a known repair rather than a certain failure.
What to do: On a V6 Camry, check for coolant leaks and value records of water-pump replacement. - Toyota Safety Sense Camera and Radar Function (2017–2026)
From 2017, Toyota Safety Sense is standard. Windshield replacement, front-end repairs or misaligned sensors can disable or degrade these systems, which need calibration after such repairs.
What to do: Confirm all driver aids work on a test drive, especially after a windshield or collision repair. - Rental, Fleet and Accident History (2011–2026)
The Camry is very popular with rental fleets, rideshare drivers and commuters, so many used examples have high mileage or prior repairs. History and condition matter more than the badge.
What to do: Get a history report and a pre-purchase inspection. - Camry Engine, Hybrid and Generation Disambiguation (2011–2026)
Camry powertrains changed by generation: 2.5L four, 3.5L V6 and a hybrid through 2024 (2.4L hybrid in 2011), AWD on 2020-2024 four-cylinders, and hybrid-only from 2025 with optional electric AWD. The Camry Solara coupe and Toyota Avalon are separate models.
What to do: Confirm the engine, drivetrain and trim before comparing prices or mpg.
Recalls
Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, engine, equipment and VIN. Check the VIN for open recalls and completed remedies.
Similar vehicles to consider
- Honda Accord
- Nissan Altima
- Hyundai Sonata
- Kia K5
- Kia Optima
- Mazda Mazda6
- Subaru Legacy
- Ford Fusion
- Chevrolet Malibu
- Volkswagen Passat
- Toyota Avalon
Questions this guide answers
- What generation is this Toyota Camry?
- What engine does this Camry have?
- Which Camry years have all-wheel drive?
- Is the Camry Hybrid worth it, and what should I check?
- What changed in the 2015, 2018, 2021 and 2025 Camry?
- Is the 2025 Camry hybrid-only?
- What fuel economy does the Camry get?
- When did the Camry get Toyota Safety Sense?
- What recalls should I check by VIN?
- What similar vehicles should I consider?