2017 Toyota Camry

The 2017 Toyota Camry is a mid-size sedan known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. It was available with two engine options: a 2.5-liter inline-4 producing 178 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter V6 generating 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Camry for its smooth ride, comfortable interior, and reputation for longevity. Common dislikes include its somewhat bland styling and uninspired handling compared to some competitors.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warning lights, the need to add oil more frequently than expected, and potentially blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Monitor oil levels regularly. In severe cases, a dealer may perform an oil consumption test to determine the extent of the problem. Depending on the results, the fix could range from replacing valve stem seals to replacing piston rings, or even engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience a shudder or vibration, particularly at low speeds or during light acceleration, caused by the torque converter not locking up properly.
  • Solution: A transmission flush might alleviate the issue, but more commonly a replacement torque converter is required. In some cases, the entire transmission may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a clunking or rattling noise coming from the rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps or uneven road surfaces.
  • Solution: Inspect and potentially replace the rear sway bar links, bushings, or shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera may intermittently fail to display an image, or the image may be distorted.
  • Solution: Check the camera wiring and connections. If the wiring is intact, the camera unit itself may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Entune System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, slow response times, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and difficulty connecting to smartphones can occur with the Entune infotainment system.
  • Solution: Software updates may address some issues. In severe cases, the entire head unit may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $1000+ (Head Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that their windshields are prone to cracking more easily than expected, even from small impacts.
  • Solution: Windshield replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking (Rare)
  • Description/Symptoms: In rare cases, some owners have reported cracking of the dashboard material, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight. This is more common in hotter climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Toyota Camry is generally a reliable vehicle. However, some owners have reported issues such as excessive oil consumption in the 2.5L engine, torque converter shudder with the 6-speed automatic transmission, and problems with the backup camera and Entune infotainment system. The severity of these issues varies, but repairs can range from relatively inexpensive fixes to more costly engine or transmission work. While dashboard cracking is rare, it can be an expensive repair. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and thoroughly inspect any used Camry before purchase.