Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2015 Toyota Camry
The 2015 Toyota Camry is generally reliable but has notable steering issues, with a recall for electric power steering problems. It's important to inspect the steering and other systems before purchasing to ensure safety and functionality.
Known issues to inspect
Electric power steering failure
How to check: Test steering responsiveness during turns and parking.
Brake system complaints
How to check: Check brake response and listen for unusual noises.
Power train issues
How to check: Ensure smooth gear shifts and no lag in acceleration.
Various electrical faults
How to check: Test all electronic functions like lights and windows.
Engine performance complaints
How to check: Check engine noise and for any check engine lights.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or lights.
Red flag: Loud knocks or warning lights
- 02
City driving
What to check: Check steering responsiveness during low-speed maneuvers.
Red flag: Steering is stiff or unresponsive
- 03
Highway acceleration
What to check: Monitor for smooth acceleration and shifting.
Red flag: Hesitation or rough shifts
- 04
Braking
What to check: Test for effective braking without noise.
Red flag: Squeaking or delayed braking
- 05
Cornering
What to check: Assess stability and steering control in turns.
Red flag: Car feels unstable or drifts
- 06
Parking
What to check: Check tight steering control during parking.
Red flag: Difficulty in steering response
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the steering recall been addressed?
- Any unresolved electrical issues?
- Have there been any major repairs?
- Is the service history available?
- Were there any accidents or damage?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair documentation
- Service history records
- Accident and repair reports
- Vehicle title
- Warranty documents
Generated by gpt-4o on 6/11/2026. Grounded in the NHTSA recall corpus and owner-complaint patterns for the 2015 Toyota Camry.