2012 Toyota Camry

The 2012 Toyota Camry marked a significant redesign for the popular mid-size sedan. It was offered with a 2.5L inline-4 engine producing 178 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, a 3.5L V6 producing 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, and a hybrid variant using a 2.5L inline-4 with an electric motor. The Camry is generally praised for its reliability, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some owners have reported issues with specific components. Criticisms often revolve around the somewhat bland styling and driving dynamics.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some 2012 Camry owners, particularly those with the 2.5L engine, have reported excessive oil consumption. This can manifest as the need to add oil frequently between scheduled oil changes. It often leads to engine knocking or potential engine damage if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Toyota issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for this issue. A revised piston and piston ring design may be necessary to correct the issue, but the dealer usually performs an oil consumption test before authorizing the work.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+ (if engine rebuild or replacement is required).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The water pump may fail prematurely, causing overheating. Signs include coolant leaks near the water pump area, a whining noise from the engine, and the temperature gauge rising into the red zone.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

No Issues Found

Transmission

All Transmissions

No Issues Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Entune Radio Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The Entune infotainment system in some 2012 Camrys can experience glitches, including freezing, failure to connect to Bluetooth, and navigation errors.
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve the issue. In more severe cases, the head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 (software update), $500 - $1500 (head unit replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Daytime Running Lights (DRL) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that their daytime running lights fail prematurely.
  • Solution: Replacement of the DRL bulbs or assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported cracking on the dashboard, particularly in warmer climates, due to sun exposure.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Material Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat material can separate and delaminate
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat material.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Toyota Camry generally holds up well, but potential buyers should be aware of specific issues. The most concerning is the excessive oil consumption issue affecting some 2.5L engine models, which can be costly to repair. Other common complaints include Entune system glitches and, in some cases, dashboard cracking. Overall, while these issues exist, the Camry remains a reliable choice, especially if a thorough inspection is performed before purchase. The cost of repairs can range from minor fixes to significant engine work, so understanding these potential problems is crucial.