2009 Toyota Camry Review: A Midsize Sedan With Oil Consumption Problems

More expensive than the competition with used prices ranging from $6,898 to $10,080, the 2009 model has more complaints than other years making it a bad choice for buyers. Engine problems and poor build quality shorten the lifespan to 200,000 miles.

2009 Toyota Camry: Quick Overview

• We rate the reliability as poor despite J.D. Power’s great rating when the car was new. As the Camry has aged a lot of engine problems have lowered the score.
• Two engines are available including a very efficient 4-cylinder and a V6 with a good amount of power for the class.
• Fuel economy is great, ranking 4^th out of 12 midsize cars from 2009 with a combined rating of up to 25 miles per gallon.
• Safety ratings are excellent for the class earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
• The 2009 Toyota Camry ranks 3^rd out of 12 midsize cars based on owner reviews. Although the Camry ranks highly, we recommend buyers avoid the 2009 model year since there are too many costly problems.

What Problems Does the 2009 Toyota Camry Have?

The 2009 Toyota Camry has more complaints than other midsize cars from the same year. With more serious problems than other years, the 2009 model is one buyers should avoid. Upgrading to a 2010 Camry is worth the extra $1,500 for significantly better reliability.

Engine problems, including excessive oil consumption, are extremely common around 95,000 miles. There are more engine failures than in other model years, with a class action suit filed against Toyota. If your vehicle consumes a lot of oil, you may need to replace pistons and rings for about $2,000, or buy a new engine costing up to $5,000.

Melting dashboards are another frequent problem, happening around 80,000 miles. The component’s adhesive gets too hot when the vehicle is left in direct sunlight, causing parts to melt. One solution is to replace the dash costing over $1,000, and some owners choose to install a dash cover for under $100.

Premature tire wear is another common complaint from owners. The original tires which come on the car only last about 25,000 miles, and are not as good as other brands. Replacing the original tires with another brand, and getting an alignment solves the problem for about $800.

There are 10 recalls, which is more than other midsize cars from 2009. The recalls include the accelerator pedal, load carrying labels, stop lamp switch, power window switch, occupant sensing system, and seat heater wiring. Most serious are problems with the accelerator pedal, which can cause unintended acceleration leading to accidents.

How Much is the 2009 Toyota Camry Worth?

Ranging in price from $6,898 to $10,080, the 2009 Toyota Camry is more expensive than other midsize cars including the Accord and Fusion. When new, the price range was $19,145 to $28,695. Depreciation on the used market is average for the class, dropping about 10% in current value per year.

What Are the Models & Specs?

Base is the well-equipped entry-level model with:

• 16-Inch Steel Wheels
• Cloth Seating
• Power Windows & Locks
• Air Conditioning
• Cruise Control
• 6-Speaker Stereo System

LE is next in the lineup adding good features including:

• Keyless Entry
• Push-Button Ignition
• Power Driver’s Seat

SE offers some nice performance upgrades which include:

• 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
• New Exterior Bumpers
• Upgrade Interior Trim
• Sport-Tuned Suspension

XLE is the flagship model with luxurious features including:

• 16-Inch Alloy Wheels
• Leather Seating
• Dual-Zone Climate Control
• Reclining Rear Seats
• Moonroof
• JBL Stereo System

How Long Will the 2009 Toyota Camry Last?

A properly cared for 2009 Toyota Camry can last upwards of 200,000 miles, but some engine problems may shorten the life span compared to newer models. Repair Pal estimates the regular annual maintenance costs to be about $100 more affordable than the Fusion and Altima, at $384 per year.

There are some maintenance items owners should prepare to address as the Camry reaches over 100,000 miles. They include heater core replacements for about $1,000, new purge valves costing $150, as well as strut-bearing replacements which cost around $250.

What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?

The standard technology in the 2009 Toyota Camry is better than other midsize sedans from the same year, but feels dated by modern standards.

• Standard technology features include a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo system with a 3.5mm AUX input.
• Optional upgrades add an 8-speaker JBL stereo system, Bluetooth, and a 7-inch touchscreen navigation system.
• For safety there are standard antilock brakes with brake assist, and air bags. Stability control is an optional upgrade.

What Engine Options are Available?

Performance in the 2009 Toyota Camry is better than some other sedans with the upgraded V6. The larger engine takes the vehicle form 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 6.5 seconds, which is quick for the class.

• The base engine is a 2.4L 4-cylinder with 158 horsepower.
• An optional upgrade is a 3.5L V6 which makes 268 horsepower.

What Color Options are Available?

How Big is the Camry?

The 2009 Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan, and is close in size to rivals including the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima. Passenger room is great with plenty of legroom in the back seats. On the XLE model, the rear seats also recline, giving a luxurious experience for passengers. Cargo space is average for the class and can fit 4 suitcases in the 15 cubic feet of room in the trunk.

How Does the 2009 Toyota Camry Compare to Other Cars?

Ranking 3^rd out of 12 midsize cars, based on owner reviews, the 2009 Toyota Camry is near the top of the class.

The highest-rated midsize sedan of 2009 is the more affordable Mazda6. Where the Mazda comes out ahead is with fewer complaints from owners, and a more engaging driving experience. On the other hand, the Camry offers a roomier interior, and more standard technology. For the 2009 model year, the Mazda6 is a better choice since there are fewer mechanical problems.

Another close competitor is the more affordable Honda Accord. The Accord has better technology, and is a sportier car to drive with the optional coupe. Where the Camry wins is with a more comfortable driving experience, and more luxurious features. Sadly, for the 2009 model year there are mechanical problems with both cars, and buyers should look elsewhere.

Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Toyota Camry a Good Car?

No, the 2009 Toyota Camry is not a good car. The 546 verified owner reviews give a combined rating of 4.4/5, however mechanical problems are very common. Positive features include a very comfortable ride similar to luxury vehicles, and good power from the V6 engine. The downsides are engine problems, and a very boring driving experience. We recommend shoppers looking for a Camry go with the 2010 model since there are serious engine improvements for the extra $1,500.