Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2019 Toyota Camry
The 2019 Toyota Camry is generally reliable but has several notable issues, primarily related to the braking system, fuel pump, and airbag deployment. These have been subject to recalls, and it's critical to confirm repairs have been addressed before purchasing.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2019 Toyota Camry has 6 NHTSA recall campaigns and 403 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 #21V890000 Possible Sudden Loss of Braking Assist NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V682000 Fuel Pump May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V012000 Fuel Pump May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V567000 Improperly Calibrated OCS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V503000 Incorrect Load Carrying Capacity Label/FMVSS 110 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V244000 Non-Permanent Text on Load Capacity Label NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 116 complaints
- Engine 81 complaints
- Unknown or Other 66 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 65 complaints
- Service Brakes 35 complaints
- Electrical System 27 complaints
Of the 403 complaints on file, 22 report a crash and 1 a fire; across all 403 complaints, owners report 18 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Brake assist loss
How to check: Ensure recall service was completed for vacuum pump issue.
Fuel pump failures
How to check: Ask about recall repair for fuel pump replacement.
Airbag deployment failure
How to check: Confirm Occupant Classification System has been recalibrated.
Incorrect load labels
How to check: Check load capacity labels for legibility and correctness.
Frequent electrical issues
How to check: Inspect all electrical components functionality, especially lights.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or extended cranking.
Red flag: Hard starting or loud knocking noises.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check if the engine idle is smooth and steady.
Red flag: Engine stalling or rough idle.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test brakes for responsiveness and power assist.
Red flag: Delayed or insufficient braking response.
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth acceleration without hesitancy.
Red flag: Engine hesitating or surging.
- 05
Steering maneuvers
What to check: Test steering for unusual noises or difficulty.
Red flag: Heavy steering or grinding noises.
- 06
Post-drive inspection
What to check: Check for any fluid leaks under the car.
Red flag: Presence of oil or coolant leaks.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the brake vacuum pump been replaced?
- Was the fuel pump recall service completed?
- Have airbag system issues been resolved?
- Are there any current recalls outstanding?
- Has the car undergone regular maintenance?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall completion certificates
- Service and maintenance records
- Accident history report
- Title and registration documents
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2019 Toyota Camry at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2019 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.