Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2016 Toyota Camry
The 2016 Toyota Camry is generally reliable but faces some notable issues, particularly with airbags and steering. Recall data suggests concerns with airbag sensors, which could compromise safety. Complaints also highlight steering problems and other minor defects.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2016 Toyota Camry has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns and 184 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, for the 1 NHTSA-tested trim.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #16V420000 Incorrect Load Carrying Capacity Label/FMVSS 110 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V215000 Occupant Classification System/FMVSS 208 NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Unknown or Other 34 complaints
- Air Bags 31 complaints
- Steering 25 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 22 complaints
- Electrical System 21 complaints
- Structure 20 complaints
Of the 184 complaints on file, 41 report a crash and 2 a fire; across all 184 complaints, owners report 35 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Airbags may not deploy
How to check: Ensure airbag recall work was completed
Steering feels loose
How to check: Test drive to check steering response
Electrical shorts
How to check: Inspect for frayed wires and faulty fuses
Brake pedal feels soft
How to check: Test brake responsiveness during drive
Engine hesitation
How to check: Listen for irregular engine noise on start
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Check for rough idling or noises
Red flag: Persistent rough idling
- 02
City driving
What to check: Monitor steering responsiveness
Red flag: Delayed steering response
- 03
Braking at low speed
What to check: Feel for pedal firmness
Red flag: Spongy or soft pedal
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Notice engine power consistency
Red flag: Lagging acceleration response
- 05
Parking
What to check: Test backup camera if equipped
Red flag: Camera fails to activate or display
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have the airbag recalls been addressed?
- Any steering or alignment issues recently?
- Has the electrical system been checked?
- Are there issues with brake responsiveness?
- Has the engine been serviced regularly?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Proof of airbag recall repair
- Service history records
- Title and registration documents
- Accident and repair history
- Inspection certificate
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2016 Toyota Camry at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2016 Toyota Camry? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.