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.
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 6/16/2026. Grounded in the NHTSA recall corpus and owner-complaint patterns for the 2016 Toyota Camry.