Toyota Camry Problems Common Issues and Repair Costs
The Toyota Camry is a mid size saloon with a global reputation for comfort, refinement, and reliability. Popular in North America and Asia, the Camry has also found success in the UK, especially in hybrid form. While it is well known for durability, no car is completely free from faults. This guide looks at the most common Toyota Camry problems and typical repair costs in the UK.
About the Toyota Camry
The Camry is built to be a dependable family car. It offers:
- Petrol and hybrid engine options
- Smooth automatic transmission
- Spacious interior with comfort in mind
- Toyota’s proven record for long lasting reliability
Although among the most durable cars in its class, some issues can appear as the car ages or with high mileage.
Common Toyota Camry Problems
- Hybrid battery wear
Hybrid versions can suffer from battery degradation over time, reducing fuel economy and performance. - Transmission problems
Automatic transmissions may slip or delay shifts if the fluid is not changed on schedule. - Oil consumption
Older petrol engines sometimes burn oil as mileage increases. - Water pump failures
Both engine water pumps and hybrid cooling pumps can leak or fail, leading to overheating. - Suspension wear
Struts, shocks, and bushings wear with age, causing knocking noises or a less comfortable ride. - Steering faults
Electric power steering systems may develop problems, showing warning lights or heavy steering. - Air conditioning issues
Compressors and pipework can leak or fail, reducing cooling. - Brake wear
Hybrid versions may see faster brake wear if regenerative braking is not working correctly. - Electrical faults
Sensors, dashboard lights, and infotainment screens are known to develop faults occasionally.
Typical Repair and Service Costs in the UK
Average UK servicing and repair costs for the Toyota Camry are as follows:
| Repair or Service | What is Included | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Annual service | Oil, filter, checks | £170 to £240 |
| Major service | Plugs, fluids, filters, inspection | £300 to £450 |
| Hybrid battery repair | Module or cell replacement | £700 to £1,300 |
| Full hybrid battery replacement | Complete pack | £1,400 to £2,200 |
| Automatic gearbox service | Fluid change and inspection | £180 to £300 |
| Gearbox rebuild or replacement | Full repair | £1,000 to £2,000 |
| Suspension repairs | Struts, shocks, bushes | £220 to £450 per axle |
| Water pump replacement | Engine or hybrid pump | £250 to £450 |
| Steering rack replacement | Electric rack and labour | £700 to £1,200 |
| Air conditioning repair | Re gas or compressor replacement | £130 to £400 |
| Brake pad and disc replacement | Front or rear set | £180 to £350 |
| Electrical repairs | Sensors, wiring, infotainment | £120 to £400 |
How to Keep Costs Down
- Service with Toyota or hybrid specialists
- Change transmission fluid on time to prevent wear
- Monitor oil levels on older petrol engines
- Inspect suspension and brakes regularly
- Run the air conditioning often to keep it working properly
- Address hybrid battery warnings early to avoid large bills
Conclusion
The Toyota Camry is one of the most dependable family saloons on the market, offering strong comfort and reliability. Its most common issues are hybrid battery wear, gearbox faults, oil use, suspension knocks, and electrical faults.
Routine servicing is affordable, though major repairs such as gearbox rebuilds or hybrid batteries can be expensive. With timely care and proper maintenance, the Camry can provide many years of reliable and comfortable driving in the UK.
Buying a used VW. Buying used vauxhall, BMW, Jaguar, Ford, Volvo, Range rover, Bentley, Aston Martin, Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Hyundai, Tesla, Honda, Pagani