Used Toyota Camry Buying Guide: Best Years and What to Check

The Toyota Camry has a reputation as the car you buy when you want to stop thinking about your car. That reputation is mostly earned, but even a Camry has years, engines and recalls worth knowing before you hand over your money.

The short answer: The best used Toyota Camry years for most buyers are 2015-2017 (refined, proven 2.5-liter and six-speed) and 2020-2024 (current-generation design after first-year recalls). The 2018-2024 Camry Hybrid LE is the efficiency standout at 52 mpg combined. Check 2007-2009 four-cylinder Camrys for oil consumption.

Key takeaways

• The 2018-2024 Camry Hybrid LE is EPA-rated at 52 mpg combined, while the gas four-cylinder in those years is rated in the low 30s.
• Some 2007-2009 Camrys with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder were linked to excessive oil consumption; Toyota's program for it has ended.
• The 2018 Camry, first year of its generation, had recalls for oversized pistons on some 2.5-liter engines and V6 fuel delivery pipes.
• All-wheel drive became available on gas Camrys for 2020, which helps buyers in snowy states.
• The 2025 and newer Camry is sold only as a hybrid, rated at 51 mpg combined for the front-drive LE.

Which Toyota Camry generations should you consider?

Most used shoppers will look at Camrys from 2007 onward. Each generation has a slightly different engine lineup and fuel economy.

Ratings are from fueleconomy.gov for representative years and vary by trim. Sportier XSE trims with larger wheels score lower.

What are the best years for a used Toyota Camry?

The best years depend on your budget and whether you want a hybrid. These ranges offer the best mix of reliability, features and value.

2015-2017 (best value): The 2015 refresh improved the interior, styling and ride. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder and six-speed automatic are a proven, simple combination, and prices are well below the current generation.

2020-2024 (best overall): These later XV70 Camrys benefit from early-year fixes, and AWD became available on gas models starting in 2020. The eight-speed automatic and newer safety features make them the most modern choice short of a 2025.

2018-2024 Hybrid LE (best for fuel savings): At 52 mpg combined, the Hybrid LE matches a Prius while giving you a midsize back seat and trunk. It's a favorite among high-mileage drivers.

2010-2011 (budget pick): The 2.5-liter replaced the earlier 2.4-liter, avoiding the oil consumption concern. These cars are now older, so condition matters most.

Which Camry years should you research carefully?

Two parts of the Camry's history deserve a closer look: early XV40 four-cylinder engines and the first year of the XV70.

2007-2009 Camry with the 2.4-liter

Toyota's 2AZ-FE 2.4-liter engine in 2007-2009 Camrys was linked to excessive oil consumption, which Toyota attributed to piston ring design. Toyota ran a warranty enhancement program for qualifying engines, documented in a Toyota bulletin filed with NHTSA, but that program has ended. Ask the seller how often they add oil, look for blue smoke at startup and have a mechanic check for oil burning. The V6 and the 2010 and newer 2.5-liter weren't part of the program.

2018 Camry

The 2018 Camry was a full redesign, and NHTSA records show several recalls that year. Some 2.5-liter engines had pistons larger than specified, which could cause engine damage. Some V6 models had fuel delivery pipes that might not be properly connected. A separate recall covered vacuum pumps on 2018-2019 Camrys that could fail and reduce brake assist. None of these should stop you from buying a 2018 as long as all recall work is complete.

What other recalls should you check on a used Camry?

Run any Camry through NHTSA's recall lookup or Toyota's recall page. Other recalls to know about include:

• Low-pressure fuel pump (2018-2020 Camry and many other Toyotas): The pump may fail, which can cause the engine to stall.
• Engine block porosity (some 2020 Camry and Camry Hybrid 2.5-liter): Casting porosity could allow coolant to leak.
• Vacuum pump (2018-2019): Failure could reduce brake assist.

Recall repairs are free at any Toyota dealer.

Should you buy a gas or hybrid Camry?

For most buyers who drive a lot, the hybrid is the better buy. The 2018-2024 Camry Hybrid LE is rated at 52 mpg combined, compared with 31 to 34 mpg for the gas four-cylinder. At 15,000 miles a year and $3.50 per gallon, that's roughly $1,010 in fuel for the hybrid versus about $1,550 to $1,700 for the gas car.

The gas Camry makes sense if you drive fewer miles, want AWD on a 2020-2024 model, or find a gas car priced well below a comparable hybrid. The V6, available through 2024, is quick and smooth but uses more fuel. Toyota's hybrid system has a long track record, but get a hybrid system check during inspection. Our used hybrid buying guide explains what to look for.

What should you check on a used Camry test drive?

A Camry's issues usually show up in records and a careful test drive more than in obvious faults. Use this list alongside a professional inspection.

1. Cold start: Listen for rough idle, rattles or blue smoke.
2. Oil level (2007-2009 four-cylinder): Ask about oil top-ups and check the dipstick.
3. Transmission: On 2018 and newer cars, drive in town and on the highway, watching for harsh or delayed shifts.
4. Brakes: Check for a firm pedal and confirm the 2018-2019 vacuum pump recall if applicable.
5. Hybrid system: On hybrids, check for warning lights and ask for a hybrid battery health check.
6. Interior wear: Check seats, controls and the infotainment screen, especially on high-mileage cars.
7. Recalls and records: Confirm completed recall work and look for regular oil changes.

Our test drive checklist covers more, and an independent pre-purchase inspection is worth the cost.

How does the Camry compare with the Accord?

The Camry and Honda Accord are the two most popular midsize sedans and both make excellent used cars. The Camry generally has a softer ride and offered a V6 through 2024, while the Accord is often described as sportier to drive. Both offer strong hybrids. Compare them in our used Honda Accord buying guide.

How much should you pay for a used Camry?

Camrys hold their value well, especially hybrids, so prices often run higher than less popular rivals of the same age. Compare several cars in your area with similar years, mileage and trims. Use pricing guides as a starting point and adjust for condition and service history.

Let the right Camry come to you

Clean, well-priced Camry Hybrids can sell in days. Tell Scout's used car alerts something like "Camry Hybrid LE or SE, 2020 or newer, under 60,000 miles," confirm the search, and get an email when a dealer near you lists a match.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best year for a used Toyota Camry?

For most buyers, 2020-2024 is the best range. These later XV70 Camrys benefit from early fixes, offer AWD on some gas trims and include the 52 mpg Hybrid LE. On a tighter budget, the 2015-2017 Camry is a strong value with a proven 2.5-liter engine and six-speed automatic.

Which Camry years burn oil?

Some 2007-2009 Camrys with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine were linked to excessive oil consumption. Toyota ran a warranty enhancement program for qualifying engines, but it has ended. If you're considering one, ask about oil top-ups, check for blue smoke and have a mechanic inspect for oil burning. The 2010 and newer 2.5-liter wasn't part of that program.

Is a used Camry Hybrid worth it?

For most buyers who drive a lot, yes. The 2018-2024 Camry Hybrid LE is rated at 52 mpg combined, compared with low 30s for the gas model. At 15,000 miles a year, that can save several hundred dollars a year in fuel. Toyota hybrids have a long track record, but get a hybrid system check during inspection.

Is the 2025 Camry only available as a hybrid?

Yes. The redesigned 2025 Camry dropped the gas-only four-cylinder and V6 and is sold only as a hybrid, with front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The front-drive LE is EPA-rated at 51 mpg combined. That means anyone who wants a gas-only Camry or a V6 will be shopping 2024 and older models.

How many miles is too many for a used Camry?

There's no fixed cutoff. A well-maintained Camry with complete service records can be a good buy at higher mileage, while a neglected low-mileage car can be a poor one. Focus on maintenance history, a clean inspection and a fair price. Our guide to how many miles is too many explains how to weigh it.