2018 Toyota Camry Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Ryan Davis13 Critical Recalls
2018 Toyota Camry Report

Overall Score

Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Powertrain Hesitation: Expect potential issues with delayed acceleration and rough shifting, particularly at lower speeds.
  • Braking System Concerns: Investigate reports of sudden loss of brake assist, a critical safety and drivability issue.
  • Fuel Pump Recalls: Multiple recalls related to the fuel pump indicate a potential for engine stalling; verify remedy completion.
  • Below-Average Reliability: The combination of frequent complaints and recalls places the 2018 Camry below average for dependability.
Overview

2018 Toyota Camry

The 2018 Toyota Camry presents a mixed bag for used car shoppers. While it boasts excellent NHTSA safety ratings, achieving a perfect 5-star overall score, its reliability record is a significant concern. With 14 recalls and over 1000 complaints logged, potential buyers must be aware of recurring issues. The most frequent complaints center on the powertrain, service brakes, and engine. These issues, coupled with a high number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), suggest potential quality control challenges. Given the number of recalls, potential repair costs for underlying issues could be a factor for owners.

Critical Failure Risk

Owners frequently report issues with the powertrain, including hesitation, rough shifting, jerking, and delayed acceleration, particularly during low-speed maneuvers or when merging. This aligns with the top complaint category and suggests potential issues with transmission control or engine performance calibration.

Early detection can help you avoid a $600-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Reliability

Practicality

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing safety ratings and fuel efficiency.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Risk-averse buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Toyota Camry Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Toyota Camry.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Electronic Continuously Variable (e-CVT)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Wagon
EPA Combined MPG
26

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Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 151 reports

2. Braking System

Usage: 123 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Inspect Brake System, Powertrain Fluids, and Rotate Tires

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
14 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2018 Toyota Camry reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Toyota Camry is 3.9/10. Reliability score is 3.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 14. Owner complaints: 1,001.

How practical is the 2018 Toyota Camry for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.4/10. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Toyota Camry?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Toyota Camry is 6.4/10. Overall score is 6.4/10 (Mixed). Confidence 82%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Toyota Camry?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Inspect Brake System, Powertrain Fluids, and Rotate Tires at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Powertrain Control Module (PCM) (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1200).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Toyota Camry?

Base MSRP is $29,150.

What engine is in the 2018 Toyota Camry?

Engine specs list In-Line • 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2018 Toyota Camry use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Toyota Camry, transmission is Electronic Continuously Variable (e-CVT). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Toyota Camry?

EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Toyota Camry?

12 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2018 Toyota Camry?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Toyota Camry, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2018 Toyota Camry?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Toyota Camry, body style is wagon.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Toyota Camry use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Toyota Camry, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Electronic Continuously Variable (e-CVT).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Toyota Camry?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.

Is the 2018 Toyota Camry good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2018 Toyota Camry, a staple in the midsize sedan segment, prioritizes comfort, reliability, and fuel economy over performance.

What are the most common power train problems on the 2018 Toyota Camry?

Top complaint category: power train (151 reports, 15.1% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Toyota Camry?

This model year has 14 official safety campaigns listed.