After four decades, the Toyota Camry remains a simple car. But in this case, simplicity translates into reliability, and reliability translates into a long list of accolades. Car buyers enjoy the abundance of solid options when shopping the used car market, but which is the best Toyota Camry year to go for?
Of course, like all automakers, Toyota
has occasionally succumbed to its own set of challenges with the midsize car. We’ll explore which Toyota Camry years to avoid, as well. The worst Toyota Camry years
Things were quiet on the complaint front for the first five generations of the Toyota Camry. This may be due to a lack of data since Consumer Reports
did not start collecting this information until the 2000 model year. But, it wasn’t until 2007 when things went sideways for the Camry. This is the year that Toyota introduced new power plants that had an alarmingly high oil consumption. Repairs cost around $2,500, and often on the owners’ dime because the issue would surface around 97,000 miles, after the warranty had expired.
Many 2007 models required an engine replacement after the factory one blew up. Speed control was another severe issue that led to several crashes. The 2008 Toyota Camry saw similar issues surface at higher mileages, according to Motor and Wheels
. In quick succession, the 2009 model was also one of the worst Toyota Camry years. In addition to the overconsumption of oil, the cruise control would stop working and the transmission would malfunction. The dashboard was prone to cracking and melting in the sunlight, which led to a dangerous blinding glare for drivers.
MORE: Toyota and Lexus Have Recalled Over 450,000 Vehicles Thanks to a Software Glitch
The best Toyota Camry years
Those few bad eggs aside, the Toyota Camry has remained a dependable family car. MotorBiscuit
believes that the second-generation models are as reliable as they come. Then, in 2000, the Toyota Camry hit its stride with a new sleek design and smoother drivetrain. Engine options included a 2.2-liter or 3.0-liter four-cylinder engine, making 133 hp and 194 hp, respectively. It was quiet and comfortable.
After a few tumultuous years, 2010 proved to be one of the best Toyota Camry years. This model was paired to a six-speed automatic transmission that contributed to an improved fuel economy of 26 mpg.
The 2012 Toyota Camry outshines the competition when it comes to reliability and owner satisfaction ratings. Its total cost of ownership is impressive thanks to the quality of the build and its fuel efficiency. It also boasts an extremely spacious interior.
The seventh generation came to a close with the 2016 and 2017 models. Both demonstrated improved crash test results and had a low volume of complaints, as per MotorBiscuit
. It even won the award for “Best Used Cars for Teens.” MORE: The Fastest Toyota Cars
The best insurance for a Toyota Camry
Car buyers are certainly pleased that this vehicle holds its value, especially in the best Toyota Camry wheels. Most recent model years, 2019 through 2022, are equipped with new technology and seem to carry on the Toyota Camry legacy of reliability with ease.
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