Your membership has expired

The payment for your account couldn't be processed or you've canceled your account with us.

Re-activate

Save products you love, products you own and much more!

Save products icon

Other Membership Benefits:

Savings icon Exclusive Deals for Members Best time to buy icon Best Time to Buy Products Recall tracker icon Recall & Safety Alerts TV screen optimizer icon TV Screen Optimizer and more
    GREEN CHOICE

    Toyota Camry

    EPA MPG: 29 mpg

    RECALL ALERT:
    There are 2 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    We expect the 2025 Camry will have about average reliability when compared to the average new car. This prediction is based on data from the 2025 model.

    The 2012 Toyota Camry has been recalled 2 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
    Most Common Trouble Spots
    Common Trouble Spot
    Common Trouble Spot

    Owner Reported Trouble Spots

    The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2012 Toyota Camry owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

    Exhaust

    Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Other/unsure

    "Outside door handle drivers side"

    Anonymous, SC (2012 Toyota Camry LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "auto acceleration, car was totaled"

    Anonymous, FL (2012 Toyota Camry SE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "tire pressure alert system on one tire doesn't work"

    Anonymous, NC (2012 Toyota Camry LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "sun roof will not open"

    Anonymous, IL (2012 Toyota Camry LE 3.5-L V6)

    "Alternators"

    Anonymous, MN (2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid LE)

    "alternator went bad"

    Anonymous, FL (2012 Toyota Camry LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "The battery does not charge. My mechanic said it would cost at least $2799 Canadian to fix the problem, because you can't just buy it of the shelf. The module would have to be purchased from Toyota because it's specific to that car."

    Anonymous A., ON (2012 Toyota Camry XLE 3.5-L V6)

    "Alternator died causing vehicle to stop working"

    Anonymous, ID (2012 Toyota Camry LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "had to replace alternator and battery within one month of buying it. Cost was close to $1,000. I consider this reasonable as car has high miles."

    Anonymous, NC (2012 Toyota Camry SE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "Radiator replaced shortly after purchase. New tires installed (Michelin Crossclimate 2)"

    Anonymous, ON (2012 Toyota Camry SE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Brakes

    Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

    What Owners Say

    Calipers

    "Car felt like the brakes were sticking off and on when braking causing a small, noticible jerking sensation. Took it to a mechanic who said 2 of the calipers were broken."

    Anonymous, IL (2012 Toyota Camry XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "Had to change a couple of times"

    Anonymous, MA (2012 Toyota Camry LE Unsure)
    Other brakes problem

    "Brake line rusted to the point that there was a risk of the line bursting."

    Anonymous, ON (2012 Toyota Camry XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Pulsation or vibration

    "one motor mount broke resulting in car stalling when braking. Took four times at the dealer to figure it out. I have never had a motor mount break loose before. The vibration is , according to the mechanic caused by warped rotors but was told it does not affect the braking and as I don't need new brakes I just live with it."

    Anonymous, CA (2012 Toyota Camry SE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "Brakes make noise and had vibrations the dealership could not identify or fix."

    Anonymous, NH (2012 Toyota Camry SE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Rotors

    "Ongoing brake problems with this vehicle, has never had quality braking despite multiple repairs."

    Anonymous, NH (2012 Toyota Camry SE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "Rotors had been pulsing, been turned, but not adequately and procedure was repeated. During that alignment was checked and corrected."

    Anonymous, NC (2012 Toyota Camry LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "Had to change the rotors and brake pads two years in a row"

    Anonymous, MA (2012 Toyota Camry LE Unsure)

    Climate System

    AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

    What Owners Say

    A/C compressor

    "Last summer, the AC stopped working. The mechanics at the usual shop where I get the repairs done, asked me to take it to the dealer. I tool it to the local dealer's repair shop. They fixed a new compressor, heat exchanger, etc., and charged me nearly $2000."

    Anonymous, MD (2012 Toyota Camry XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "Compressor failed"

    Anonymous, WI (2012 Toyota Camry XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "Mechanic told me the entire system failed"

    Anonymous, ME (2012 Toyota Camry SE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Evaporator

    "Ac cooling sporadic, repaired at the time with extended purchased warranty"

    Anonymous A., SC (2012 Toyota Camry XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Refrigerant leaks

    "Leaks started 10 months ago essentially disabling the AC system. Leaks are from compressor, evaporator, condenser, related tubing from system."

    Anonymous, TX (2012 Toyota Camry LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    In-car Electronics

    Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

    What Owners Say

    Display screen freezes up

    "display screen does not work - radio gets one station, volume will adjust but you can't select another station. can't get mileage or tire pressures from screen"

    Anonymous A., CA (2012 Toyota Camry LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Display screen goes blank

    "Display screen works in cold weather but does not work in hot weather."

    Anonymous, CT (2012 Toyota Camry SE 3.5-L V6)
    Other in-car electronics problem

    "We cannot pair a new phone because the touchescreen doesn't respond to touch. We also cannot access the trip monitor screens and tire pressure screens."

    Anonymous A., OR (2012 Toyota Camry LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Phone pairing (e.g., Bluetooth)

    "In hot summer weather the bluetooth will not always connect. When it does connect, sometime it works fine. Other times it works for one call, then freezes when I try to hang up until I restart my vehicle."

    Anonymous A., TX (2012 Toyota Camry XLE 3.5-L V6)

    Suspension/Steering

    Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

    What Owners Say

    Alignment

    "Seals on ball joints were cracked; joints were replaced and alignment was then needed."

    Anonymous, NC (2012 Toyota Camry LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Other steering/suspension problem

    "The vehicle had a rattling noise which turned out to be a Power Steering Electric Damper. It is a very common issue, I was able to find several videos on the defect on YouTube."

    Anonymous A., TX (2012 Toyota Camry XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Shocks or struts

    "Front struts had to be replaced"

    Anonymous, NY (2012 Toyota Camry 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "Struts worn, loose. Replaced with new along with rotors and brakes"

    Anonymous A., SC (2012 Toyota Camry XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Paint/Trim

    Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

    What Owners Say

    Loose interior trim or moldings

    "The biggest nuisance is the crappy plastic pins that will not hold the bumpers nor fenders or bumpers guards in place no Matter how many times are replaced. Embarrassing to have irreparable damage."

    Anonymous A., TN (2012 Toyota Camry XLE 3.5-L V6)
    Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, or peeling)

    "The paint is starting to become chalky or look like its blooming in various spots including the roof, hood and trunk."

    Anonymous, CA (2012 Toyota Camry LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Rust

    "Rust spot appear on roof near windshield. Need to have it sanded and repainted or may leak into cabin."

    Anonymous, WI (2012 Toyota Camry SE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Body Hardware

    Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

    What Owners Say

    Fuel door or charge port door

    "Fuel door doesn't always close properly after fueling."

    Anonymous, NJ (2012 Toyota Camry SE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Other body problem

    "Driver side seat bezel was awry when I purchased the car.Mostly just cosmetic but it interferred somewhat getting in & out of the vehicle & made seat adjustment difficult. I understand this problem is caused by large people getting in & out of the drivers seat!"

    Anonymous, GA (2012 Toyota Camry SE)
    Seat controls - power

    "Plastic panel where seat controls are broke."

    Anonymous, NJ (2012 Toyota Camry SE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Engine Minor

    Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Oil leaks

    "Oil pressure switch failed. Oil spewed out of car slowly while running. Two quarts Oil left in car when I noticed Oil on garage floor. Engine light did not come or any other warning light. $20 part plus labor. Total $80."

    Anonymous, WI (2012 Toyota Camry SE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "Mechanic said to repair the leak would be 2,000 dollars as the engine or transmission would have to be removed. I did not have the work done."

    Anonymous, IN (2012 Toyota Camry SE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Noises/Leaks

    Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Other noises & leaks problem

    "I heard squealing when driving intermittently and mechanic Said it.was serpentine belt and replaced it"

    Anonymous, MD (2012 Toyota Camry LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Squeaks or rattles

    "In dash rattle. Very load and annoying"

    Anonymous, TX (2012 Toyota Camry LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Electrical Accessories

    Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

    What Owners Say

    Keyless entry

    "Several times the driver door does not open with keyless entry. When I try to open the driver door, key fob alarm Beeps non-stop for a minute. I have to enter through the passenger door and unlock the driver side manually. This is is ongoing & intermittent."

    Anonymous A., CA (2012 Toyota Camry XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Other electrical system problem

    "at 196,000 the original factory alternator failed. This happened in February 2024 with only a single day notice (light on dashboard that it was failing). We replaced it at a shop for $600"

    Anonymous A., LA (2012 Toyota Camry XLE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Transmission Major

    Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

    What Owners Say

    Transmission rebuild or replacement

    "Did not drive smoothly, made noise"

    Anonymous A., NJ (2012 Toyota Camry LE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "started on my way home from purchasing. caused a rumble when it was shifting from starting to the next gear (auto transmission} around 40 mph which speed I drive quite often. Was afraid it would quit shifting completely so got it repaired."

    Anonymous, GA (2012 Toyota Camry SE)

    Drive System

    Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

    What Owners Say

    Driveshaft or axle

    "My mechanic found the problem and I had it fixed before it gave me any problems with driving."

    Anonymous A., NV (2012 Toyota Camry XLE Unsure)

    Transmission Minor

    Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Slipping transmission

    "The transmission has been slipping for a significant amount of time -gradually gotten worse to a point and started driving it less. Too costly to repair for the age of the car and not comfortable with our teen daughter driving it due to safety as acceleration lags can be dangerous."

    Anonymous, NC (2012 Toyota Camry XLE 3.5-L V6)

    Engine Major

    Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

    Engine Cooling

    Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

    Engine Electrical

    Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

    Fuel System/Emissions

    Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

    2012 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

    This Car
    vs. Similar Cars

    Toyota vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    Reliability History
    * Redesign year
    00
    01
    02*
    03
    04
    05
    06
    07*
    08
    09
    10
    11
    12*
    13
    14
    15
    16
    17
    18*
    19
    20
    21
    22
    23
    24
    Overall Reliability Verdict

    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
    Electric Motor
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    EV Battery
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Major
    Engine Minor
    Engine Cooling
    Engine Electrical
    Transmission Major
    Transmission Minor
    Drive System
    Fuel System/Emissions
    Exhaust
    Suspension/Steering
    Brakes
    Climate System
    Build Quality
    Electrical Accessories
    Body Hardware
    Paint/Trim
    Noises/Leaks
    In-car Electronics
    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for over 300,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2024 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes to power equipment and the electrical accessories. NA indicates that we did not receive a large enough sample size to provide data for a specific year. An X indicates that the vehicle was not manufactured for a specific year.
    Recalls
    PROVIDED BY
    AIR BAGS, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, EQUIPMENT
    Oct 17, 2013
    A short circuit may cause the air bags to become disabled or inadvertently deploy. An inadvertent airbag deployment can increase the risk of injury or the possibility of a crash. An inoperative airbag can increase the risk of injury in a severe crash. The power steering assist could also become inoperable resulting in increased steering effort and can increase the risk of a crash at low speeds.
    Summary:
    Toyota is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Avalon, Avalon HV, Venza, Camry, and Camry HV vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the drain hose for the air conditioning condenser may become clogged causing water to accumulate at the bottom of the air conditioning condenser unit housing. The accumulated water may then leak through a seam in the housing onto the air bag control module potentially resulting in a short circuit of the module.
    What should you do:
    Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will seal the air conditioning condenser unit housing and install a protective cover on the airbag control module, free of charge. The recall began on February 5, 2014. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 13V442000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 802769
    AIR BAGS, SEATS
    Jan 16, 2013
    If the front passenger seat occupant sensing system is out of calibration, the front passenger airbags may not deploy or they may deploy inappropriately for the passenger's size and position. This could increase the risk of personal injury during the event of a vehicle crash necessitating airbag deployment.
    Summary:
    Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model year 2010-2013 model year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; model year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; model year 2012 Prius V; and model year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During modification by SET to include accessories such as leather seat covers, seat heaters or headrest DVD systems, these vehicles may not have had the passenger seat occupant sensing system calibration tested. Without passing the calibration test, the occupant sensing system may not operate as designed.
    What should you do:
    Southeast Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will test the sensitivity of the occupant detection sensors, and recalibrate them as necessary. The recall began on March 21, 2013. Owners may contact Southeast Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 13V014000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 3235
    Check Vehicle for Unrepaired Recalls
    Enter a valid 17-character VIN
    Enter a valid 17-character VIN
    Change Vehicle