Best Years to Buy a Used Toyota Camry | Reliable Models for Every Budget
📌 Overview: Why the Toyota Camry Is a Smart Used Car Choice
When it comes to buying a used midsize sedan, the Used Toyota Camry consistently ranks at the top of the list. Known for its bulletproof reliability, strong resale value, and low cost of ownership, the Used Toyota Camry has been a favorite among commuters, families, and budget-conscious drivers for decades.
But not all model years are created equal.
Some years stand out for their impeccable reliability and advanced safety features, while others are best avoided due to known mechanical or design issues. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down:
- The best Toyota Camry years to buy used
- Model-specific highlights (engines, trims, tech upgrades)
- Years to avoid due to reliability concerns
- Average pricing (as of 2025)
- Tips for buying a quality used Camry
Let’s dive into the best-value Camry model years on the used car market.
🚗 Best Years to Buy a Used Toyota Camry – Expert Buyer’s Guide (2025)
🥇 Best Toyota Camry Years to Buy Used
✅ 2015 Toyota Camry – The Hidden Gem
The 2015 model year of Used Toyota Camry is considered one of the most reliable used Camrys, thanks to Toyota’s mid-cycle refresh that year.
🔹 Key Highlights:
- Updated exterior styling and interior materials
- Strong 2.5L 4-cylinder engine or optional 3.5L V6
- Excellent fuel economy: ~25/35 MPG (city/highway)
- Top safety scores from IIHS and NHTSA
- Available trims: LE, SE, XLE, XSE
💰 Average Used Price (2025): $11,000 – $15,000
🧠 Why buy? Great reliability, good resale value, and solid features make this year a fantastic budget buy.
✅ 2017 Toyota Camry – Last of the Generation
The 2017 Used Toyota Camry is the final model of the XV50 generation, making it a refined and reliable option with all the bugs worked out.
🔹 Key Highlights:
- Superb ride quality
- Strong resale and reliability scores
- Full suite of standard features
- Less tech-heavy = fewer electronic failures
💰 Average Used Price (2025): $13,000 – $17,000
🧠 Why buy? Known for low repair costs and solid build quality. A dependable choice for families and daily commuters.
✅ 2018 Toyota Camry – Major Redesign, Big Rewards
The 2018 model kicked off the latest Camry generation (XV70), offering modern styling, upgraded tech, and enhanced safety features.
🔹 Key Highlights:
- New TNGA platform = better handling and efficiency
- Standard Toyota Safety Sense™ (TSS-P)
- Apple CarPlay (added via 2019 update)
- Optional hybrid model with up to 51 MPG
- New 8-speed automatic transmission
💰 Average Used Price (2025): $17,000 – $22,000
🧠 Why buy? You get a modern design, active safety features, and improved driving dynamics at a great used price.
✅ 2020 Toyota Camry – Tech, Safety & Efficiency
The 2020 Camry introduced a refined infotainment system and further enhancements to driver assistance systems.
🔹 Key Highlights:
- Standard Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Available AWD for the first time in decades
- Camry TRD performance trim introduced
- Toyota Safety Sense 2.0™
- Excellent crash-test scores
💰 Average Used Price (2025): $20,000 – $25,000
🧠 Why buy? It combines modern tech, fuel economy, and great safety—all in a recently redesigned package.
✅ 2021 Toyota Camry – A “Near-New” Used Value
The 2021 model Used Toyota Camry saw infotainment upgrades, improved interior trim, and an available 9-inch touchscreen. It’s a great buy if you want near-new quality without paying new prices.
🔹 Key Highlights:
- Refreshed styling
- Wireless smartphone charging
- Better touchscreen ergonomics
- Same reliable engine options
💰 Average Used Price (2025): $22,000 – $26,000
🧠 Why buy? Modern, connected, and built for comfort—without new car depreciation.
🚫 Toyota Camry Years to Avoid
While most Camry years are dependable, a few are known for recurring issues:
❌ 2007–2009 Camry
- Oil consumption problems in 4-cylinder models
- Transmission issues
- High-frequency brake wear
❌ 2012 Camry
- Early reports of interior rattles
- Suspension and steering complaints
- Less refined infotainment experience
🧠 Tip: If you’re considering these years, check service history and recall completion carefully.
⚙️ Engine Options and What to Look For
🔹 2.5L 4-Cylinder
- Found in most trims
- Excellent fuel efficiency and longevity
- Best for commuters and daily drivers
🔹 3.5L V6
- Found in XSE, XLE trims (up to 301 hp)
- Smoother, faster acceleration
- Slightly lower MPG
🔹 2.5L Hybrid Powertrain
- Available since 2007, refined in 2018+
- Up to 51 MPG city in 2018+ trims
- Lower emissions, great for urban driving
🧠 Recommendation: Unless you need more power, the 4-cylinder or hybrid options offer the best value and fuel savings.
💰 What’s the Best Year by Budget?
| Budget Range | Recommended Model Years |
|---|---|
| Under $12,000 | 2015, 2014, 2013 |
| $13,000–$16,000 | 2017, 2016 |
| $17,000–$20,000 | 2018, 2019 |
| $21,000–$25,000 | 2020, 2021 |
| $25,000–$28,000 | 2022, 2023 |
🧠 Tips for Buying a Used Camry
- ✅ Check service records and oil change history
- ✅ Avoid overly modified or “tuned” vehicles
- ✅ Verify recalls and TSBs were addressed
- ✅ Look for Toyota Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) if possible
- ✅ Ask for a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic
📉 Depreciation Advantage of Buying Used
Did you know? A new car loses 15–25% of its value in the first year. By buying a 3–5-year-old Used Toyota Camry, you:
- Avoid the biggest drop in value
- Get modern features and low mileage
- Still enjoy excellent reliability
🧠 Best value window: Camrys that are 3–6 years old offer the best mix of affordability and dependability.
❓ FAQ Section- the best used Toyota Camry
🔎 What are the best used Toyota Camry years to buy?
The best years include 2015, 2017, 2018, 2020, and 2021, offering a blend of reliability, safety, and modern features at good prices.
🔎 What is the most reliable year for Toyota Camry?
The 2015 and 2017 Used Toyota Camry are known for excellent reliability with few reported mechanical issues and strong resale value.
🔎 Which Camry year should I avoid?
Avoid 2007–2009 due to engine oil consumption and transmission complaints. The 2012 model also had interior and suspension issues.
🔎 Is the Toyota Camry a good used car?
Yes! The Used Toyota Camry is one of the most reliable used cars on the market, with a low cost of ownership and long lifespan.
🔎 How many miles can a used Toyota Camry last?
With proper maintenance, a Used Toyota Camry can easily last 250,000–300,000 miles, especially from the 2015+ model years.
🔑 Suggested- automotive parts
- Power Stop Brake Kit For 2013-2017 Toyota Camry
- TOPINSTALL Center Console Tray Compatible with 2018-2024 Toyota Camry XLE XSE and 2020-2024 Camry LE SE
🏁 Final Thoughts: Your Ideal Used Camry Awaits
The Best Years to Buy a Used Toyota Camry offers one of the safest, smartest, and most reliable choices for used car shoppers. From the budget-friendly 2015 model to the tech-forward 2021 version, there’s a Camry for every lifestyle and price point.
By targeting the best model years and avoiding the few trouble-prone versions, you’ll drive away in a sedan that delivers longevity, comfort, safety, and fuel economy—without breaking the bank.
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