Toyota brand mark

Is the 2012–2017 Toyota Camry reliable?

Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

5.7/ 10
Mixed

On our documented-fault scoring the Toyota Camry rates 5.7 out of 10 · mixed. We hold 8 known faults for it and 1 are rated high severity, so the risk is real but contained. The weak points cluster around engine, cooling and interior. A well-serviced example with evidence for the big-ticket items is usually a safe buy; the score describes the model, not the specific car in front of you.

Verdict · Negotiate · budget for the known faults

What the score is built from

Critical
0
High
1
Medium
5
Low
2

Weak points cluster around engine, cooling, interior, transmission.

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The faults that decide it

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.
Typical repair
Oil leak trace & seal / gasket · £180–£700
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.
Typical repair
Cooling component replacement · £220–£750
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.
Typical repair
Routine repair · £180–£700
SteeringMedium

Clunking or knocking sensation felt through the steering column due to intermediate shaft wear.

Typically appears
70,000-100,000 miles
What to inspect
With the engine running and the vehicle stationary, rock the steering wheel left and right a quarter turn; feel and listen for a mechanical knock.
Typical repair
Steering rack / column repair · £400–£1,500
SuspensionMedium

Premature tearing of the front lower suspension arm rear bushes, leading to vague steering and uneven tyre wear.

Typically appears
60,000-90,000 miles
What to inspect
Apply the handbrake, put the vehicle in drive, and lightly blip the throttle while a colleague watches the front wheels for excessive fore/aft movement.
Typical repair
Suspension refresh (per axle) · £250–£1,100

Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.

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