Toyota Camry Transmission Problems

in Problems
Silver Toyota Camry in a showroom

Source: Pixabay

The Toyota Camry is a dominant mid-size car, providing stylish looks and an impressive performance for those who want something a little more affordable. Before looking at any vehicle, it’s critical to consider the dependability of parts like the transmission. Are there any significant Toyota Camry transmission problems to know about?

If you’re interested in learning more about the issues in the transmission of the Toyota Camry, you’re in the right place. The more you know about troubles in the system, the easier it will be to determine which years of the Camry are best for your driving preferences. Read on to learn about issues with the transmission, repair costs, and more.

Quick Answer: 2002, 2003, 2007, 2008, 2011, 2012

According to carcomplaints.com, transmission troubles in the Toyota Camry are most likely to appear in 2002, 2003, 2007, 2008, 2011, and 2012 models. Other years do a much better job managing the transmission and keeping it intact.

Which Years of the Toyota Camry Have the Most Transmission Troubles?

Overall, the worst year when considering Toyota Camry transmission problems is the 2007 Toyota Camry. Not only is this year terrible for the transmission, but it also has serious faults in the engine, interior accessories, and brakes.

The main issues in the 2007 Toyota Camry’s transmission included the system revving up and jerking when changing gears, transmission slippage, and hesitation when downshifting.

Toyota Camry Years With the Least Reliable Transmissions

The 2007 Toyota Camry is the worst year for the transmission. However, the 2002, 2003, 2008, 2011, and 2012 versions aren’t too far behind. They also have serious transmission errors that might force users to pay high prices for repairs.

Several transmission errors emerged over these years. A few of the most common include complete transmission failure, shifting gears offering an unbearable jerk, and hard shifting and acceleration when shifting. These are just a few transmission faults in these years.


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Do Toyota Camrys Have More Trouble Than Other Similar Models?

According to motorbiscuit.com, several transmission issues appear more often than in other similar mid-size vehicles. The most common include hesitation from the transmission while accelerating and improper shifting from the transmission. It’s a reliable machine, but it does struggle more than others with this portion.

Some years of the Toyota Camry are more prone to experience issues than others. Keep away from the 2002, 2003, 2007, 2008, 2011, and 2012 years for the best results.

What Is The Average Cost To Repair the Most Common Toyota Camry Transmission Problems?

Transmissions are never affordable to work with when they need repairs. According to getjerry.com, the typical replacement cost for a Toyota Camry transmission will cost $5,130-$5,528 to repair. Small fixes will cost less.

No matter what car you decide on, transmission repairs are never cheap. Thus, it’s vital to invest in a new or used selection with a top-notch history of reliability in the area of transmission.

Signs Your Toyota Camry Has Transmission Problems

It’s critical to look for issues in the Toyota Camry’s transmission as you drive. The sooner you see these, the faster you can repair them and get back on the road.

According to johnthornton.com, here are indications your Camry has transmission troubles:

  • Burning smell
  • Check engine light
  • Slipping gears
  • Neutral noises

These might demonstrate your Toyota Camry has transmission errors.

Watch for these when you own a Toyota Camry. Any fault warrants a trip to the repair shop, but this could mean something more serious.

How To Avoid A Used Toyota Camry With Transmission Problems

The best way to keep clear of a Toyota Camry with transmission problems is to take the car you want for a test drive before making a final investment. While you’re driving, keep an eye out for any signs that would show there is a problem with the transmission.

Another practical choice is to take your Toyota Camry to a professional mechanic. They will look at the transmission system to determine if there are any underlying issues you might have missed in the test drive. By using both methods, there should be a solid understanding of the transmission.


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Should You Buy A Used Toyota Camry?

There are several years of the Toyota Camry with serious issues. However, that doesn’t mean it’s a car you should run from on the market. The Toyota Camry has an excellent history of reliability and an excellent resale value. It provides a solid investment for the price point available. 

However, it’s valuable to note that there are a couple of versions of the Toyota Camry that aren’t ideal. However, most years will work well and will last for a long time. If you want a solid investment, go with the Toyota Camry.

Which Years of Toyota Camrys Are Safe To Buy Used?

There are several less-than-ideal years for the Toyota Camry. However, many are solid choices. There are a few on this list with transmission troubles - but the other benefits outweigh this error.

  • 2008 Toyota Camry
  • 2009 Toyota Camry
  • 2012 Toyota Camry
  • 2013 Toyota Camry
  • 2014 Toyota Camry
  • 2015 Toyota Camry
  • 2016 Toyota Camry
  • 2017 Toyota Camry
  • 2018 Toyota Camry
  • 2019 Toyota Camry
  • 2020 Toyota Camry
  • 2021 Toyota Camry

Toyota Camry Model Years to Avoid

Of course, there are also Toyota Camry transmission problems and other issues that appear in significant numbers across all years. Avoid these when possible.

  • 2001 Toyota Camry
  • 2002 Toyota Camry
  • 2003 Toyota Camry
  • 2004 Toyota Camry
  • 2005 Toyota Camry
  • 2006 Toyota Camry
  • 2007 Toyota Camry
  • 2010 Toyota Camry
  • 2011 Toyota Camry

Toyota Camry Problems: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive my Toyota Camry with transmission problems?

It’s possible to drive the Toyota Camry, even with the Toyota Camry transmission problems. However, it isn’t a good idea. It could lead to further damage in the system or even cause injury if it goes on for too long.


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What should I do if I suspect a transmission issue in my Toyota Camry?

If you think there could be damage in your Toyota Camry’s system, take the machine to a professional mechanic as soon as possible. They will diagnose the trouble and care for it before it turns into something more significant.



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