2023 Toyota Camry Safety Report

The 2023 Toyota Camry demonstrates a strong overall safety profile, earning a perfect 5-star rating across all NHTSA crash tests (Overall, Frontal, Side, and Rollover). This indicates excellent performance in controlled crash scenarios. However, despite its high ratings, the vehicle has accumulated 49 total complaints, including 8 crashes and 6 injuries, with no reported fires or deaths. A significant portion of these complaints, 10 out of 49, fall under 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER,' suggesting a variety of emerging or less categorized issues. Other notable complaint areas include 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (4 complaints) and 'SERVICE BRAKES' (4 complaints), indicating potential areas for concern outside of direct crash protection. The recall history for the 2023 Camry includes two significant safety-related campaigns. One recall addresses 'SEATS,' specifically insufficiently welded head restraints in the second-row center and right-side seats, which could increase injury risk during a crash. The second recall pertains to 'WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS,' where loose lug nuts could lead to wheel detachment and a loss of vehicle control, increasing crash risk. These recalls highlight manufacturing defects that, if unaddressed, could compromise occupant safety and vehicle control, despite the strong crash test performance. Common complaint patterns, as evidenced by the sample complaints, include issues with the infotainment system randomly turning off, intermittent throttle response problems, and concerns with the electronic parking brake (EPB) failing to disengage. There are also reports of paint defects, gas odors, and even a transmission failure at just over 60,000 miles. While the overall crash safety is excellent, these complaints point to potential reliability and quality control issues that could affect the ownership experience and, in some cases, present safety hazards, such as the reported air bag non-deployment in a significant crash, despite the vehicle being a total loss.

Our recommendation: While the 2023 Toyota Camry boasts excellent crash safety ratings, be aware of two active recalls and emerging reliability concerns, particularly with the electrical system, brakes, and intermittent engine/transmission issues. Verify all recalls are addressed and consider an extended warranty for peace of mind.