2020 Toyota Camry Reliability: What To Know
We explore the 2020 Toyota Camry's reliability based on consumer complaints, common issues, and recalls. Read on to learn just how much you can trust this year model.
When it comes to reliable cars, the Toyota Camry has built a solid reputation over the years. It’s known for being dependable and long-lasting, which is why so many people love this midsize car. However, not every Camry is the same, and the reliability can change from one year to the next.
In this post, we’ll talk about the 2020 Toyota Camry’s reliability by evaluating consumer complaints, known issues, and recalls. By the end, you’ll have a good idea of what to expect if you’re thinking about buying a 2020 Camry or if you’re just curious about how it stacks up.
How is the Toyota Camry’s Overall Reliability?
As expected, the Toyota Camry’s reliability is top-tier, as evidenced by consumer feedback and expert assessments. RepairPal, a leading resource for auto repair and maintenance information, has scored the Camry an impressive 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating, placing it in an enviable third position among 24 midsize vehicles. Furthermore, the Camry’s yearly repair expenses are projected to be a modest $388, significantly undercutting the $526 midsize car average and the $652 all-vehicle model average.
Consumer Reports, a trusted consumer advocate organization, echoes these sentiments with their glowing appraisal of the Camry’s dependability. Drawing from the experiences of Consumer Reports members and their collective ownership of more than 300,000 vehicles, the 2021 Annual Auto Surveys saw the Camry earn a perfect 5.0 out of 5.0 predicted reliability rating. This achievement is no flash in the pan, as the Camry has consistently garnered praise from Consumer Reports for its reliability over the years.
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2020 Toyota Camry Reliability: How Is It?
To gauge the overall reliability of the 2020 Camry, we’ll look at several ratings and critics by reputable organizations, as well as owner experiences from automotive forums.
When it comes to the 2020 Toyota Camry’s reliability, the assessments from respected sources like Consumer Reports and J.D. Power paint a consistent picture of dependability.
Consumer Reports gave a glowing recommendation of the 2020 Camry, awarding it a perfect 5 out of 5 predicted reliability rating. This score is derived from data provided by Consumer Reports members, who share their real-world experiences with the vehicle. It also received top-notch safety ratings according to the consumer advocate outfit.
J.D. Power, another respected name in the automotive industry, gives the 2020 Toyota Camry an impressive reliability score. In their 2020 Vehicle Dependability Study, which examines the performance of 3-year-old vehicles, the Camry secured an above-average rating. This study takes into account various factors, including the number of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100). The lower the PP100 score, the better the vehicle’s reliability.
Meanwhile, according to comments from the Toyota Nation Forum, the 2020 Toyota Camry continues to uphold its long-standing reputation for reliability. Many users have shared positive experiences with their Camrys, reporting minimal to no mechanical issues even with higher mileage.
Although there’s general confidence in the Camry’s reliability despite material changes and increased electronic components in newer models, some users have expressed concerns about the potential long-term effects of these changes. These include worries about the durability of plastic parts and the complexity of electronic systems.
Yet, common sentiment suggests that if past performance is an indicator, the 2020 Camry should remain a dependable choice for buyers.
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2020 Toyota Camry: Consumer Complaints and Common Issues
This section provides a general overview of the 2020 Toyota Camry’s reliability based on owner complaints and known reliability woes.
According to CarComplaints.com, the 2020 Camry has 191 complaints and three recalls, which is pretty great as far as reliability goes. Below, we break down the major issues that received the most complaints from Camry owners.
Battery Drain
Camry owners have reported issues with parasitic electrical drains, leading to situations where vehicles wouldn’t start or were completely dead, requiring jump starts. Some have noted that the car battery and alternator are in excellent condition, yet the battery continues to drain. Symptoms include abnormal noises and smoke from under the hood due to battery explosions, warning lights flashing, loss of motive power, and parked vehicles not starting due to battery drainage.
Problematic Engine
Although not widespread, the 2020 Camry also struggled with engine problems. Various issues have been reported, ranging from malfunctioning coolant bypass valves, reported even at low mileages, to defective parts, such as the crankshaft position plate, which can cause sudden engine shutdowns during driving.
Furthermore, a specific case highlighted the vehicle’s engine turning off unexpectedly, which was attributed to a broken piece of the air intake resonator box that got stuck in the throttle—Additionally, some cars displayed concerning behaviors like stuttering and complete engine shutdowns in hot weather.
Fuel System Issues
A few people also complained about fuel system problems with their 2020 Camrys. These difficulties include issues with the fuel pump or fuel system that remain unresolved despite multiple dealership visits. In some instances, drivers experienced their engines shutting off suddenly, accompanied by warning lights signaling failures in the brake and fuel systems.
Furthermore, some vehicles displayed error messages related to the fuel pump control circuit, affecting the car’s ability to start. This situation also impacted the vehicle stability module and braking system. Owners have noted decreased fuel efficiency and the smell of gas.
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2020 Toyota Camry Recalls
The 2020 Camry only has three recalls (so far), which bodes well for its overall reliability. The recalls are as follows:
- Engine coolant leak: The earliest recall, from February 2020, deals with potential cracks in the engine castings due to porosity. These cracks can lead to coolant leaks, both internally and externally. If coolant leaks into the engine, it can cause the engine to overheat and stall, particularly in conventional gasoline vehicles.
- Fuel pump failure: In November 2020, Toyota recalled the low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank. The concern is that this pump may fail, causing the engine to stall while the vehicle is in motion.
- Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor issue: The most recent recall, dated December 19, 2023, involves a potential short circuit in the OCS sensor. This sensor detects the presence and weight of a passenger in the front seat, which helps determine whether the airbag should deploy in the event of a crash. If the sensor short-circuits, it may prevent the front passenger airbag from deploying when needed.
Regardless of these reliability concerns, the 2020 Camry is shaping up to be a reliable midsize car with modern tech and safety features.
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