2014 Toyota Camry
The 2014 Toyota Camry is a mid-size sedan known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. Available engine options included a 2.5L inline-4 (178 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque) and a 3.5L V6. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. People generally appreciate the Camry’s comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong resale value. Common dislikes include the somewhat bland styling and less engaging driving experience compared to some competitors.
Engine
2.5L Inline-4
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include the low oil pressure light illuminating or the engine making unusual noises due to low oil levels.
- Solution: Toyota released a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for this issue. Some owners have had success with an updated PCV valve or piston ring replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ for piston ring replacement.
3.5L V6
No Issues Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners experienced harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between lower gears.
- Solution: Some have had success with transmission fluid changes or software updates/reprogramming the transmission control module (TCM). In more severe cases, valve body replacement might be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for fluid change; $100 - $250 for TCM reprogramming; $800 - $1500+ for valve body replacement.
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Noise
- Description/Symptoms: Owners reported clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps. The noise is typically caused by worn or loose sway bar links.
- Solution: Replacement of the sway bar links is the typical fix.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
Electrical
- Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent loss of connection, difficulty pairing devices, or distorted audio during phone calls.
- Solution: Software updates for the infotainment system can sometimes resolve these issues. Replacing the Bluetooth module is another option.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update is available); $300 - $500 for Bluetooth module replacement.
- Backup Camera Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Backup camera displaying a black screen, distorted image, or not functioning at all.
- Solution: Check the camera connections. The camera itself may need replacement or the wiring harness might have issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 for wiring repair; $200 - $500 for camera replacement.
Exterior
- Headlight Condensation
- Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
- Solution: Removing the headlight and resealing it. In some cases, the headlight will need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$100 for resealing; $200 - $400 for headlight replacement.
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight. This is more prevalent in hotter climates.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard. Installation of a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+ for dashboard replacement; $50-$150 for dashboard cover.
Recalls
- Fuel Delivery Pipe
- Description/Symptoms: Fuel may leak from the fuel delivery pipe. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Solution: Dealers will inspect the fuel delivery pipe assembly and, if necessary, replace the pipe with a new one, free of charge.
- Recall: 14V743000
- Front Suspension Lower Arm
- Description/Symptoms: Fatigue cracks may develop in the front suspension lower arms if the vehicle is repeatedly operated with frequent turning and acceleration/deceleration, which may result in the front suspension lower arm fracturing. If a front suspension lower arm fractures, the vehicle may lose steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Solution: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front suspension lower arms and replace them if necessary, free of charge.
- Recall: 14V242000
Summary
The 2014 Toyota Camry is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners have reported some common issues. The most concerning is excessive oil consumption in the 2.5L engine and cracks forming on the dashboard, which can be relatively expensive to fix. Other issues like transmission harsh shifting, suspension noises, and electrical problems are generally less severe and less costly to address. Owners should be aware of these potential problems and inspect the vehicle thoroughly before purchasing.