2012 Toyota Camry Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Airbag System Concerns: A significant recall and numerous complaints point to potential issues with the airbag control module, including water intrusion and possible malfunctions. Confirm any recall work has been completed.
- Powertrain Issues: Complaints frequently cite issues with the transmission, including hesitation, rough shifting, and getting stuck between gears, particularly at higher mileage.
- Vehicle Speed Control: Reports of unintended acceleration and stalling warrant careful examination of this system.
- Electrical System Vulnerabilities: Broad electrical system complaints suggest potential for various malfunctions.
2012 Toyota Camry
The 2012 Toyota Camry is a mid-size sedan known for its comfortable ride and solid safety scores. However, its 'Below Average' reliability rating stems from numerous complaints and recalls concerning critical systems like airbags and the powertrain. With 5 recalls and 798 complaints, potential buyers must prioritize thorough inspections, especially for the airbag system, powertrain, and vehicle speed control. The high number of TSBs (286) also suggests a history of common, though often minor, issues.
Critical Failure Risk
Intermittent shuddering or hesitation during light acceleration, particularly between 25-50 mph. This can be caused by a faulty torque converter and/or ECM software issues. Some owners report delayed acceleration or loss of motive power.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,200-$2,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing safety ratings.
+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a completely worry-free ownership experience.
+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2012 Toyota Camry Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Toyota Camry.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic (S6)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Wagon
- EPA Combined MPG
- 24
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Most Common Issues
1. Powertrain
Most reportedUsage: 127 reports
2. Airbags
Usage: 74 reports
First Service Interval
- Inspect Brakes, Tires, Fluids, Rotate Tires (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter, Drain Plug Gasket)
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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Full FAQ
Is the 2012 Toyota Camry reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Toyota Camry is 6.8/10. Reliability score is 6.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 798.
How practical is the 2012 Toyota Camry for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2012 Toyota Camry?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Toyota Camry is 7.2/10. Overall score is 7.2/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Tuning 5.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Toyota Camry?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Inspect Brakes, Tires, Fluids, Rotate Tires (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter, Drain Plug Gasket) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $650 - $900. Repair prediction highlight: Torque Converter (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $2,500).
What engine is in the 2012 Toyota Camry?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.
What transmission does the 2012 Toyota Camry use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Toyota Camry, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Toyota Camry?
EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Toyota Camry?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2012 Toyota Camry?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Toyota Camry, body style is wagon.
What drivetrain does the 2012 Toyota Camry use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Toyota Camry, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Toyota Camry?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2012 Toyota Camry good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 5/10. The 2012 Toyota Camry is a reliable and comfortable mid-size sedan, but not a performance-oriented vehicle. Popular platforms: Toyota Camry.
What are the most common power train problems on the 2012 Toyota Camry?
Top complaint category: power train (127 reports, 15.9% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Toyota Camry?
This model year has 5 official safety campaigns listed.