What are the most common problems with the 2021 Toyota Camry?

The **airbag system**, specifically the occupant classification sensor, is the most significant ownership risk, with a recall and numerous complaints highlighting potential passenger safety issues.

How many recalls does the 2021 Toyota Camry have?

The 2021 Toyota Camry currently has 2 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2021 Toyota Camry a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The **airbag system**, specifically the occupant classification sensor, is the most significant ownership risk, with a recall and numerous complaints highlighting potential passenger safety issues. Inspect the **service brake** system and **forward collision avoidance** features closely, as these have also been cited in owner complaints. While the NHTSA awarded a perfect 5-star overall safety rating, the airbag recall warrants careful verification of remedy completion. Fuel economy is respectable, with a combined EPA rating of 26 MPG, but potential repair costs associated with the noted issues should be factored into the purchase decision. The 'Below Average' reliability verdict suggests a higher likelihood of encountering issues compared to segment leaders, demanding a meticulous pre-purchase inspection. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2021 Toyota Camry?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2021 Toyota Camry.

2021 Toyota Camry Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Daniel Wilson2 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The airbag system, specifically the occupant classification sensor, is the most significant ownership risk, with a recall and numerous complaints highlighting potential passenger safety issues.
Inspect the service brake system and forward collision avoidance features closely, as these have also been cited in owner complaints.
While the NHTSA awarded a perfect 5-star overall safety rating, the airbag recall warrants careful verification of remedy completion.
Fuel economy is respectable, with a combined EPA rating of 26 MPG, but potential repair costs associated with the noted issues should be factored into the purchase decision.

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Overview

2021 Toyota Camry

The 2021 Toyota Camry offers a comfortable ride and strong safety scores, but used-car shoppers should be aware of its below-average reliability verdict. The primary concern revolves around the occupant classification system sensor, which can prevent the front passenger airbag from deploying. This issue is subject to a recall, but the remedy timeline has been protracted, raising ownership concerns. Beyond airbags, complaints also touch on service brakes and forward collision avoidance systems, suggesting potential vulnerabilities in critical safety areas. With 170 complaints logged, including a notable number related to airbags, buyers must prioritize thorough inspections.

Critical Failure Risk

Issues with the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor can prevent the front passenger airbag from deploying. This is a critical safety defect.

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

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns2

Service Bulletins16

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

170

Air Bags71

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing a comfortable ride and strong crash test scores.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

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

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Toyota Camry Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 5
Transmission: Automatic
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Wagon
EPA Combined MPG: 26

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Most Common Issues

1. Airbags

Most reported

Usage: 71 reports

2. Braking System

Usage: 11 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation

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 (4 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

2 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2021 Toyota Camry reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Toyota Camry is 7.2/10. Reliability score is 7.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 170.

How practical is the 2021 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 2021 Toyota Camry?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Toyota Camry is 7.5/10. Overall score is 7.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Toyota Camry?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1000. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag System (OCS Sensor) (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2021 Toyota Camry?

Base MSRP is $28,430.

What engine is in the 2021 Toyota Camry?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2021 Toyota Camry use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Toyota Camry, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Toyota Camry?

EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Toyota Camry?

13 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 2021 Toyota Camry?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Toyota Camry, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Toyota Camry?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Toyota Camry, body style is wagon.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Toyota Camry use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Toyota Camry, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Toyota Camry?

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

Is the 2021 Toyota Camry good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2021 Toyota Camry, while a reliable and comfortable sedan, is not a prime candidate for aggressive engine tuning. The 3.

What are the most common air bags problems on the 2021 Toyota Camry?

Top complaint category: air bags (71 reports, 41.8% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Toyota Camry?

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.