2009 Toyota Camry used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Excessive oil consumption120 owner complaints, usually around 98,282 miles, owners paid about $3,000

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Sudden unintended acceleration105 owner complaints, usually around 18,700 miles

  Check that the car accelerates smoothly, without hesitation or surges, and that cruise control works.

• ABS light or ABS activating54 owner complaints, usually around 93,000 miles, owners paid about $2,156

  Brake firmly from moderate speed: the pedal should feel firm and the car should stop straight, with no grinding or pulsing.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• SeatsRecall number 16V396000, Jun 2, 2016
• VisibilityRecall number 15V689000, Oct 22, 2015
• SeatsRecall number 14V743000, Nov 19, 2014
• Air bagsRecall number 13V014000, Jan 16, 2013
• VisibilityRecall number 12V491000, Oct 10, 2012
• Exterior lightingRecall number 12V091000, Mar 7, 2012
• EquipmentRecall number 10V035000, Feb 3, 2010
• EquipmentRecall number 10V036000, Feb 3, 2010
• Vehicle speed controlRecall number 10V017000, Jan 21, 2010
• Vehicle speed controlRecall number 09V388000, Oct 5, 2009

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical...Dec 6, 2024
• To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used...Dec 6, 2024
• The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix...Dec 6, 2024
• Toyota vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal...Dec 5, 2024
• Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad...Dec 3, 2024
• Condition in which a musty odor is presentJul 29, 2024

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.