2012 Toyota Camry

Introduction: The 2012 Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan that comes in various trim levels, including SE, LE, XLE, and Hybrid. It is powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with 178 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 6-speed automatic or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Camry is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. However, there have been some reported issues with certain aspects of the vehicle.

Engine

• 2.5L Engine with 6-Speed Automatic:
  • Cylinder Misfire:
    • Description/Symptoms: Check Engine Light illumination, rough idle, decreased engine power, poor fuel economy.
    • Solution: Replace spark plugs and/or ignition coils.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Chain Issue:
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or ticking noise coming from the engine, loss of power.
    • Solution: Replace timing chain and related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 6-Speed Automatic:
  • Shifting Problems:
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifting, delayed shifts, slipping gears.
    • Solution: Replace transmission fluid or major transmission component repair.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• CVT:
  • Shuddering/Vibration:
    • Description/Symptoms: Vibrations or shuddering felt while accelerating or shifting gears.
    • Solution: Software update or replacement of transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, loss of power steering, battery warning light illumination.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $900+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Motor Problems:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t start or cranks slowly.
  • Solution: Replace starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Minor Panel Gaps:
  • Description/Symptoms: Small gaps noticeable between body panels.
  • Solution: Adjustment or replacement of body panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fog Light Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Fog lights not working properly or turning on unintentionally.
  • Solution: Replace fog light assembly or wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: AC not blowing cold air, heating system not working, irregular fan speeds.
  • Solution: Replace climate control unit or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power window not working or functioning intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace window motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 2012 Toyota Camry is generally a reliable vehicle; however, it has some reported issues with certain components. The most severe issues include the timing chain issue in the 2.5L engine and the transmission shuddering in the CVT. Other issues tend to be less costly to repair. It is important to note that not all Camrys will experience these issues, and the overall reliability of the vehicle is still commendable.