2021 Toyota Camry Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
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.
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.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
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
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Toyota Camry.
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 reportedUsage: 71 reports
2. Braking System
Usage: 11 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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Full FAQ
Is the 2021 Toyota Camry reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Toyota Camry is 7.5/10. Reliability score is 7.5/10. 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 7.6/10. Overall score is 7.6/10 (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.