2021 Toyota Camry problems
The Toyota Camry (/ˈkæmri/; Japanese: トヨタ・カムリ Toyota Kamuri) is an automobile sold internationally by the Japanese auto manufacturer Toyota since 1982, spanning multiple generations. Originally compact in size (narrow-body), the Camry has grown since the 1990s to fit the mid-size classification (wide-body)—although the two widths co-existed in that decade. Since the release of the wide-bodied versions, Camry has been extolled by Toyota as the firm's second "world car" after the Corolla. As of 2022, the Camry is positioned above the Corolla and below the Avalon or Crown in several markets.
In Japan, Camry was once exclusive to Toyota Corolla Store retail dealerships. Narrow-body cars also spawned a rebadged sibling in Japan, the Toyota Vista (トヨタ・ビスタ)—also introduced in 1982 and sold at Toyota Vista Store locations. Diesel fuel versions have previously retailed at Toyota Diesel Store. The Vista Ardeo was a wagon version of the Vista V50.
Etymology
The name "Camry" derives from the Japanese word kanmuri (ja:冠, かんむり), meaning "crown". This follows Toyota's naming tradition of using the crown name for primary models starting with the Toyota Crown (1955), continuing with the Toyota Corona (1957) and Corolla (1966); the Latin words for "crown" and "small crown", respectively. Maintaining this theme was the Toyota Tiara (1960) named after the "tiara" form of crown. The Atara trim level name used on the Camry in Australia since 2011 means "crown" in Hebrew. The rebadged Camry variant for Japan, the Toyota Scepter (1991)—took its name from "scepter", a royal accessory to a crown.
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Common 2021 Toyota Camry problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2021 Toyota Camry, several common problems have been reported:
- Transmission Problems: Reports indicate an increase in transmission issues with recent models of the Toyota Camry. Symptoms include shifting delays, stalling, grinding or jumping during low gear acceleration, shaking while in motion, burning smells, and whistling sounds from under the hood. Decreased fuel economy can also be a sign of transmission problems, necessitating a thorough diagnosis and repair by certified professionals.
- Starter Failure: Starter failure has been a common issue reported by owners, with instances where the car simply wouldn't start. This problem is often linked to a dead battery, alternator issues, or starter malfunctions. Proper diagnosis and repair, which may involve replacing the battery, alternator, or starter, are essential to address no-start issues effectively.
- Powertrain Problems: Powertrain issues have caused accidents with the 2021 Camry, with reports of cars lurching unexpectedly, leading to collisions. Engine problems, such as engine leaks due to porous casting leading to oil leaks, have also been highlighted. These issues underscore the importance of thorough inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle.
- AC and Heater Issues: Complaints have been raised about musty smells from the air conditioning vents in 2012, 2013, and 2014 Camry models. Some owners have faced problems with the AC compressor not working or the heater failing to blow hot air. While these issues are relatively easy to fix by replacing the affected components, they can impact the comfort and functionality of the vehicle.
These common problems reported by owners of the 2021 Toyota Camry highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and thorough inspections to address issues promptly and ensure the safety, reliability, and performance of the vehicle.
Does 2021 Camry have transmission problems?
If you don't routinely change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your 2021 Toyota Camry transmission will slip. Check your car's owner's manual for more information on the explicit mileage intervals in which your transmission needs the fluid replaced.
What are the cons of the 2021 Camry?
The 2021 Toyota Camry expertly combines quality and value with impressive passenger space, a great safety rating, plenty of family-friendly features, good fuel economy and a comfortable ride. Downsides include a somewhat noisy cabin and some cheap materials in the lower trims.
What is the most common problem with Toyota Camry?
The motor mounts at higher mileage May wear out causing extra stress on other motor mounts. It's best to replace these motor mounts as they go.
What is the recall on the 2021 Camry?
2021 Toyota Camry Recalls
A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
What is the most common problem with Toyota Camry?
The motor mounts at higher mileage May wear out causing extra stress on other motor mounts. It's best to replace these motor mounts as they go.
How good is a 2021 Toyota Camry?
Highs Frugal four-cylinder engine, truly sporty TRD model, standard driver assists. Lows Tepid four-cylinder acceleration, polarizing exterior design, has to compete against the Honda Accord. Verdict The Camry has returned to glory with its exciting lineup, improved build quality, and priority on safety.
What is the recall on the 2021 Camry?
2021 Toyota Camry Recalls
A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
How long can a 2021 Toyota Camry last?
between 200,000 and 300,000 miles
How long do Toyota Camrys last? The Toyota Camry life expectancy is typically between 200,000 and 300,000 miles according to asurvey from Consumer Reports. This survey examined years of analysis, as well as road-test scores and other ratings.
2021 Toyota Camry car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Camry problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Service brakes problems
- Forward collision avoidance problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2021 Toyota Camry vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2021 Toyota Camry
The NHTSA has received 83 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2021 Toyota Camry. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2021 Toyota Camry vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 4T1G11AK2MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Camry. The contact received NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (AIR BAGS) in February 2024 however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms that the parts are not available.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 4T1G11AKXMU
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The transmission on this vehicle has a delayed shifting between 1st and 2nd gears when accelerating. I am concerned that there is a transmission issue happening.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 4T1G11AK2MU
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Transmission when shifting at lower gears
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-01
- VIN: 4T1F31AK5MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Toyota announced a recall in December 2023, and has not yet provided a repair for this.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-03
- VIN: 4T1K61AK0MU
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: SRS Airbag
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-09
- VIN: 4T1K61AK2MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Camry. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the SRS air bag system malfunction warning light illuminated, with an audible chime. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer but was not diagnosed. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the part to the recall repair was not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 50,000.
AIR BAGS,SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- VIN: 4T1G11AK4MU
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I started to get the ringing noise I do not have my seatbelt buckled and the SRS Airbag warning started popping up. I learned after taking my car in for service it is due to the recall related to the sensor under my passenger seat.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- VIN: 4T1G11AK8MU
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: The contact's wife owns a 2020 Toyota Camry. The contact stated that on several occasions when the vehicle was turned off, the rear doors failed to unlock manually or by using the remote, from the inside or outside the vehicle. The contact stated that on one occasion, the contact had to climb through the passenger’s side rear window to exit the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-05
- Number Of Injuries: 4
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4T1C11AK9MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Air Bag malfunction, Car was total loss. Message of the car screen attach to this report.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-20
- VIN: 4T1T11AK3MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Manufacturer Recall Number23TB15 NHTSA Recall Number23V865 Toyota still does not have a remedy for this recall. It’s dangerous to have passengers in my vehicle and I haven’t been able to have anyone ride with me for almost 1 year.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-17
- VIN: 4T1G11AK5MU
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: When turning on the ac while driving the Master Warning Light comes on along with Engine Maintenance Required flashing across screen. It seems the Engine Coolant Bypass Valvue is faulty. I am in the process of getting the vehicle fixed.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-23
- VIN: 4T1C11AK7MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The subject vehicles have Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensors in the front passenger seat, that could have been improperly manufactured.
LANE DEPARTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-01
- VIN: 4T1G31AK3MU
- Components: LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: When I do these checks I have my hands lightly on the wheel ready to correct the car when needed. The lane control assist tends to stay to the left of the lane, crossing over the left side lane markers, it also tends to head towards the right side of the lane, crossing over the right side lane markers without compensating. At times it does compensate but it causes the car to go back and forth in the lane without settling out. There have been times when the car is steered to the right with no compensation and without my correction would have gone off the road. The lane warning system doesn't always work. If I did not have diligence when using the system I would no doubt have gone off the road and crashed. The dealer has not checked the car, they say this is how it works even on their personal Toyotas. These problems have been prominent and have existed since the purchase of the car in 2021.
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- VIN: 4T1G11AK0MU
- Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: 2021 Camry only 24k miles received an engine maintenance required light pop up on my car. Took it to the Toyota dealer and was told i needed REPLACE ENGINE COOLANT BYPASS VALVE-CODE P268115 ENGINE COOLANT BYPASS VALVE. Car is only 3 years old and should not be having this issue. Was told warranty does not cover definitely is a manufacturing issue. There should be a recall.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-24
- VIN: 4T1K61AK1MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Camry. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4T1F31AK5MU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Driving very slowly into my 36 foot deep garage I took my right foot off the accelerator pedal when the 2021 Toyota Camry suddenly unintended accelerated forward 15 feet and crashed through the rear garage wall, the automatic brake didn't work,. Then with my foot on the brake pedal, it continued at high speed across 35 feet of concrete patio and came to rest on top of thick hedge with front wheels spinning off the ground. I then shut the engines off. I believe this accident was caused by 'Sudden Unintended Acceleration", a fault in many Toyota and Lexus vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-20
- VIN: 4T1R11BK6MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Camry. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags). The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 14,600.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-11
- VIN: 4T1K61AK1MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I am trying to get this resolved as a preventative measure and there is no remedy yet.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-05
- VIN: 4T1C11AK6MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Camry. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-15
- VIN: 4T1K61AK4MU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Shut off car but system didn’t shut off so the next day car won’t start…once jump started, it will start ok. Took car to shop but they can’t find anything wrong since it starts ok…recurring problems in the last few years.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-26
- VIN: 4T1G31AK5MU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: The driver side rear door would not open from the inside or outside. Once the dealership opened the back door, the vehicle would no longer lock at all. There was nothing to indicate this would be a problem. Now my car will not lock at all and this is a safety hazard. Also, not being able to open a door from the inside or outside is a major safety issue and my vehicle is available for inspection.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-24
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Camry. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. The VIN was not available.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-15
- VIN: 4T1T11AK3MU
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine maintenance required is showing on dash when AC is turned on. This seems to be common among 2019 and newer Toyotas. The code says the coolant sensor needs to be replaced
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-15
- VIN: 4T1G11AK2MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Camry. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-06
- VIN: 4T1G11AK5MU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I am a disabled individual and I have a pregnant wife which doesn't feel safe driving this vehicle with a defective airbag. We contacted but unfortunately they don't seem to care.
2021 Toyota Camry recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2021 Toyota Camry.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short circuit may develop in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) sensor, preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed February 2, 2024. A second notice will be mailed once the remedy is available. Multiple phases are planned through 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexus 23LB03/23LA03.
Negative 2021 Toyota Camry car reviews
Positive 2021 Toyota Camry car reviews
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Don't worry about the price, just buy it. It will be worth it!
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I can tell you, I absolutely adore this car! In fact, I loved it so much that I decided to lease it for a second time, but this time I went for the newer model. Honestly, I don't think I'll ever want to own any other car again.
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This is an excellent vehicle, and I completely disagree with the reviews about the 4cyl being sluggish. I own a XSE FWD, and I find it to be fairly quick for a small engine. However, during my test drive of both the AWD and FWD vehicles, I did notice a difference in performance. It's worth noting that AWD cars typically use more gas, which may explain the difference, but overall, I thought both cars were great.
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I'm not really into cars, but this one is truly wonderful!
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I've had my car for a year now since the 5-22 update and I'm happy to report that it's been a great experience. With an average of 46 mpg and 15,000 miles, it's been a reliable and comfortable ride, especially on road trips. We even added a clear bra cover on the hood to prevent rock chips. In our updated review, we're pleased to say that our 2021 Camry SE hybrid has been a fantastic purchase. With 8000 miles on it, we're getting a total MPG of 48, even with more local driving than freeway. I get a kick out of seeing it hit 78 mpg on a 4-mile downhill stretch that I sometimes drive. Some reviews have mentioned that the braking can be a bit abrupt, but I haven't had any issues with it. My husband tends to brake harder than I do, but it's still not a big deal. I also have no concerns about connecting my phone for maps and other features, which has been mentioned as a concern in some reviews. I did my homework before buying and I'm glad I chose the SE over the LE for its additional features. While it doesn't have butt warmers, that's not a concern for me. I would buy another Camry SE in a heartbeat!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2021 Toyota Camry problems:
2021 Camry Potential Problems | Toyota Nation Forum
Apr 29, 2021 ... 2021 Camry Potential Problems · 1. Excessive oil consumption · 2. New 8 speed transmission jerks and hesitates at low speeds · 3. Weird battery ...
2021 Toyota Camry Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
May 16, 2023 ... Common problems found on the 2021 Toyota Camry include premature brake wear, paint fade issues, along with some reports of broken sunroofs.
Is the 2021 Camry having issues? : r/Toyota
Jun 24, 2021 ... What was your issue? Right now I'm in a 2021 rental and the car has a wild judder when coasting at 2000 rpm at 120kmph. If you ease off the ...
2021 Toyota Camry Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2021 Toyota Camry? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
The Biggest Mistake You Can Make When Buying A Used 2021 ...
Jan 22, 2023 ... The report on the 2021 Camry states that many users of the model suffered a bizarre vibrating problem on their brakes. While Toyota did become ...
Other years of Toyota Camry
Are you having problems with your 2021 Toyota Camry?
Lourdes Corwin 2025-01-04
I was validated twice today and unfortunately, I have not been enjoying my 2021 Camry since day 2. The acceleration is slow and the ride is very jerky, making me feel like there is something seriously wrong with the drivetrain. Recently, I read a review by Jenn who experienced stabbing hip pain, which I also felt was a result of this car. None of these hip pains (for me rear) occurred until about a month into driving this car. I have had to find the ONE SPOT I can put the seat in and told my family not to touch it, for fear of going through all of the pain again. Although we have owned many Camrys, this is by far the worst car I have ever owned. However, the moon roof is a redeeming quality, which is why I gave it 2 stars instead of 1. It's time for a do-over and to go back to the good old days and make it like our 2012 Camry, which I prefer to drive over this one (both the speed and the smoothness). According to my service guy, he and his wife experienced the same jerky ride (feels like transmission is slipping)-- they traded in for a 2023 and now the ride is smooth (still slow though). This is not the 4 cylinder of before.
Gene Wilkinson 2025-01-02
Although there have been some concerns about the Toyota's cost-cutting and style choices, the Camry has some great features. The user interface is easy to use and the seats are very comfortable. However, some users have reported issues with the brakes and the low front bumper. Additionally, the car's low height may make ingress and egress difficult for some. It's worth noting that the Camry's insurance costs are higher than some other vehicles. While the car only comes with a 4cyl engine with AWD, it's still a reliable choice. The OEM tires may not be the best, but this is a common issue with many new cars.
Eduardo Beier 2024-11-11
The Camry is all about the cabin. The suspension guards the cabin on uneven roads and helps in handling it better. The steering control is just great. The cabin provides comfortable seating for all passengers, ensuring a pleasant ride. Additionally, the safety features add an extra layer of protection to the cabin, making it a safe and secure environment. Overall, the Camry provides the best experience possible.
Cornelius Stehr 2024-07-15
The Camry has some great features such as a gorgeous design, a reliable and incredible engine, as well as being comfortable and quiet. However, there are some downsides such as the adaptive cruise control disconnecting around 20mph (except 2 trims), and the dash being a decade behind. Additionally, Apple CarPlay would not work without the Toyota app. While the Camry is a wonderful car, the Accord has much more to offer. It has full adaptive cruise control, push button start, rear camera trajectory/birds eye view, bigger wheels, better handling, better low end torque (turbos), a bigger infotainment screen, and a beautiful dash.
Lemuel Sanford 2024-06-05
I was recently given a Toyota Camry 2021 XSE to drive while they fixed my 2018 Toyota Camry XSE 6 cylinder vehicle. Although I was having the stereo system changed out, I was surprised by the lack of power when taking off in this car. It seemed like it had to think long and hard about taking off. While I expected the car to improve with the years, this one did not. However, I have not experienced any acceleration problems in my 2018 Toyota Camry. So, I think I'll stick with what I have.