EngineHigh
Excessive oil consumption on the 2.5L 2AR-FE — some cars burn oil between changes.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check oil level on the dipstick and ask for oil-top-up history; watch for blue smoke on start-up.
2012 Toyota Camry problems
A 2012 Toyota Camry is now 14 years old, so an average example has covered around 189,000 miles. This is the first model year of the generation · early-build cars carry the highest share of teething faults and the most recall activity, so check the service history for completed recall work. Check the state safety inspection and service history alongside the documented faults below, which are sorted by whether a 2012 car has usually reached the mileage where they appear.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team
Quick answer
The 2012 Toyota Camry is 14 years old, so an average example has covered roughly 189,000 miles. At that mileage 3 of the documented faults are already due, so check those first.
Faults a 2012 example has usually reached
Documented onset mileage is at or below the ~189k miles an average 2012 car has covered.
CoolingMedium
Water pump weeping coolant.
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Look for coolant residue around the pump and check the reservoir level.
TransmissionMedium
Occasional torque-converter shudder at light throttle.
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Test-drive at 35–45 mph light acceleration and feel for a vibration or shudder.
Faults that appear at any mileage
Age, electronics and build-related issues that are not mileage-driven.
InteriorLow
Melting / sticky dashboard in hot climates (subject to a warranty extension).
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Press the dash top for tackiness and glare; confirm any prior replacement.
Inspecting a 2012 Toyota Camry?
Generate a tickable pre-purchase checklist for this exact year, mileage and variant · add photos and notes as you inspect.
Check this exact carToyota Camry · frequently asked questions
Is the 2012–2017 Toyota Camry reliable?
Yes — it's widely regarded as one of the most reliable used midsize sedans. The main caveats are oil consumption on some 4-cylinder cars and minor cooling wear.
What mileage do Camry problems start?
Oil consumption and water-pump seepage typically appear after 60,000–80,000 miles.
Which engine should I look for?
Both the 2.5L four and 3.5L V6 are strong; the V6 avoids the oil-consumption concern but costs more to run.