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Toyota Camry: Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins

Some components require extra maintenance over time. Read on to learn how safe the components in your Toyota Camry are.

By Charlie Gaston - July 22, 2015

This article applies to the Toyota Camry (1997-2011).

Every vehicle requires general maintenance within regularly scheduled intervals. However, some passenger vehicles suffer multiple recalls and technical service bulletins (TSBs), which could make them harder to maintain throughout the years than those that do not. If a TSB is issued by Toyota for your Camry, don't panic. A TSB does not necessarily mean your vehicle will also experience difficulty with the component(s) named in the TSB. However, it is a good idea to head down to your local Toyota dealership to have your Camry checked before continuing to drive it. Let's see how the Camry performs when it comes to TSBs and recalls.

TSBs and Recalls

0-20
21-40
41-60
61-80
81-100
1997
 - - - - 92
1998
 - - - 80 -
1999
 - - - 69 -
2000
 - 40 - - -
2001
 - - 42 - -

Over the years, the 1997 Toyota Camry has experienced a steady decrease in the total number of TSBs issued for faulty components. The sharpest drop occurred in 2000, when only 40 TSBs were issued. While the following year did see a small increase, at 42, this number is still more than 50% less than the number recorded for 1997, which was 92.

The 1997 Toyota Camry has received a number of TSBs throughout the years.

  • The 2001 Toyota Camry received a TSB for a faulty accelerator pedal sensor assembly, malfunctioning powertrain, and problems with the indicator lamp that goes with the engine cooling system. Easier fixes included replacing outdated software and installing missing instructions on how to properly remove seats with side air bags. It's important to note, of the 42 TSBs issued in 2001, a number of these were issued because of poorly installed or missing identification label for parts. Four recalls were issued due to the exterior lighting, structure of the vehicle and vehicle speed control.
  • The 2000 Camry received additional TSBs pertaining to the air bags and seats, as well as carry-over issue pertaining to the engine cooling system. The service brakes also received a TSB due to a repair manual correction. Four recalls were issued at this time for issues pertaining to the headlights, speed control and suspension. Four recalls were issued due to problems with the suspension, vehicle speed control and exterior lighting.
  • The 1999 Camry received TSBs for a number of repair manual corrections. Repairs for faulty indicator lights and a faulty speedometer needle were also issued.
  • A number of TSBs cropped up for the 1997 Camry, including warnings about the suspension, power train, and vanity mirror. Four recalls were issued during this time. The components in question included the steering wheel, headlights, ignition, and service brakes.

Overall, the Toyota Camry is a safe passenger vehicle, experiencing few issues.

Figure 1. A faulty speedometer was included in one TSB in 1999.

Common Questions

Who pays for repairs that occur as a result of a TSB?

You are sometimes responsible for the cost of repairs that must be made to your Camry in accordance with a TSB. If your Camry is under warranty or sometimes out of warranty TSBs will be performed free of charge. It is up to you to ask before initiating the service to be preformed.

  • You are not required to have repairs made when a TSB is issued.
  • However, it's highly recommended that you do, particularly if a local Toyota dealer or certified mechanic finds these or other parts to be defective.

Who pays for repairs that occur as a result of a recall?

Toyota is responsible for any and all repairs that must be made to your Camry as a result of a recall. Contact your local Toyota dealership to set up a service appointment.

Figure 2. Dealership repair shop.

Common Issues

Faulty Crankshaft Pulley

Lack of proper adhesive on the crankshaft pulley could result in misalignment. See your local Toyota dealer for assistance. Have your dealer run your vehicle identification number (VIN) in the system. Your Camry might be involved in a previous recall pertaining specifically to the crankshaft pulley.

Leaky Water Pump

This is a simple fix that can be done at your next engine oil change. If you have your local Toyota dealer repair the leak, you shouldn't incur a cost. However, if you visit a local mechanic, he or she might charge you a replacement fee.

Figure 3. Leaky water pump.

Faulty Gas Pedal

Have your local Toyota dealer install what is called a "selective spacer" to prevent any binding when you depress the pedal while driving. If there is a larger problem with the pedal assembly due to improper installation, for example, your dealer will need to inspect and then repair the faulty component(s), as diagnosed.

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