2019-2024 · 2.5L A25A-FXS I4 Hybrid (218 HP combined)
One of the most dependable midsize sedans available, highly favored by taxi and rideshare drivers for proven durability. The eighth-generation Camry (XV70) represents Toyota's hybrid technology at its most refined - the eCVT transmission is exceptionally robust with minimal reported failures. Main concerns are infotainment system freezing issues, grabby regenerative brakes at low speeds (characteristic not defect), and EGR cooler leaks on higher-mileage examples. Hybrid battery warranty is outstanding at 10 years or 150,000 miles. The 2020 model year is considered the sweet spot with fewest recalls.
Infotainment system freeze/black screen€0 - €1,400
Screen becomes unresponsive or completely blank at startup · more· less
The infotainment system can freeze due to software conflicts or corruption. Modern Camry infotainment contains millions of lines of code that occasionally conflict. Symptoms include frozen screen not responding to touch, complete blackouts, or Apple CarPlay crashes. First try the free reset method: press and hold the volume knob for 3 seconds to force restart. If that fails, disconnect both battery terminals (negative first) and wait 10 minutes. Some cases require Integration Control Module replacement (not the head unit itself) at around €1,400 at dealers. Toyota TSB T-SB-0166-19 addresses this issue. Temperature extremes trigger software crashes - cold weather slows processor speeds while heat causes memory errors.
Intermediate steering shaft wear€0 (warranty)
Steering becomes stiff at certain points or makes abnormal noise when turning · more· less
The 2018 Camry specifically has a known intermediate steering shaft issue where the lower universal joint becomes faulty over time. Toyota issued Customer Support Program CSP 22TE02 extending warranty coverage to 10 years or 150,000 miles from date of first use. Symptoms include increased steering effort, slower return to center, and clicking/clunking noises when turning. The dealer will replace the complete steering intermediate shaft at no charge if the condition is verified. This primarily affects 2018 models but can occur on 2019 as well. The fix involves a revised part design. Not covered on salvage-titled vehicles.
EGR cooler leak€700 - €1,600
Coolant leaks from EGR system, typically after 80,000-120,000 km · more· less
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler can develop leaks on the A25A-FXS hybrid engine. This is one of the most common issues reported for this engine family alongside VVT-i problems and noisy operation. Signs include poor fuel economy, coolant warning light, change in exhaust smell or thickness, and less efficient engine performance. The EGR cooler replacement is time-consuming due to accessibility - labor runs approximately 6-8 hours. Parts cost €400-900 depending on whether you use OEM or aftermarket. Independent shops charge around €700-1,100 total while dealers can exceed €1,600. The repair involves draining coolant, removing hoses and bolts, cleaning gasket surfaces, and installing new cooler and gaskets.
Grabby regenerative brakes at low speed€0 (characteristic)
Brakes engage suddenly or jerkily at parking speeds - this is by design · more· less
The 2018-2019 Camry Hybrid has grabby brakes at low speeds (parking lots, stop signs) due to the regenerative braking system. Owners describe jerky stop/go/stop/go situations when maneuvering at low speeds. The brakes are "brake-by-wire" with no mechanical connection between pedal and calipers - it's electronically controlled. This is a characteristic of the regenerative braking system, not a defect. The braking becomes normal at city and highway speeds. Some owners report ABS engaging briefly on dry roads during low-speed stops. Note: the major 2018-2019 Camry brake recall (vacuum pump failure causing loss of power assist) does NOT affect hybrid models - hybrids don't have that vacuum pump.
Water pump actuator failure€600 - €900
Electric water pump fails causing overheating, typically 80,000-140,000 km · more· less
The A25A-FXS uses an electric water pump (not belt-driven) which can fail. Symptoms include coolant warning light, engine overheating, or poor cabin heating. A stuck water pump actuator causes coolant circulation problems leading to engine damage if ignored - never let 5th generation Toyota engines overheat. Electric water pumps are more expensive than belt-driven types. Parts cost €200-400 depending on OEM vs aftermarket. Labor is approximately 3-4 hours due to disassembly required. Total cost at independent shops runs €600-750, while dealers charge €800-900. The cooling system should be completely flushed when replacing the pump, and all rubber hoses inspected for deterioration.
Battery capacity declines with age, covered by 10yr/150k mile warranty for total failure · more· less
Toyota hybrid batteries typically last 8-10 years or 100,000-150,000 miles. Battery degradation is natural but Toyota has proven exceptional reliability. The warranty covers total battery failure (vehicle inoperative) for 10 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, warranty will NOT cover a weak battery that still functions - only complete failure. Signs of battery issues include sluggish acceleration, "Check Hybrid System" warning light, or reduced electric-only range. Dealer replacement costs €3,000-5,000 including labor. Aftermarket remanufactured batteries start at €1,600 with 24-month warranty, or brand new cell replacements at €2,200 with 48-month warranty. Premature battery failure is uncommon - Toyota has 25+ years of hybrid experience and most Camry hybrid batteries exceed warranty period.
VVT-i system problems€400 - €1,200
Variable valve timing actuators or solenoids fail causing rough idle or check engine light · more· less
VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) problems are reported as one of the common issues with the A25A-FXS engine. Symptoms include rough idle, poor acceleration, reduced fuel economy, and check engine light with VVT-related codes. The VVT-i actuators or solenoids can fail or get stuck due to sludge buildup from infrequent oil changes or low-quality oil. The hybrid engine uses ultra-thin oil (0W-8 or 0W-16) which makes regular oil changes critical. VVT-i solenoid replacement costs €200-400 (parts €80-120, labor 1-2 hours). If the actuator assembly needs replacement, costs rise to €800-1,200. Using quality oil and changing it at 8,000-10,000 km intervals helps prevent these issues.
Exceptionally reliable for a midsize sedan
The XV70 Camry Hybrid is one of the most dependable cars Toyota builds. Consumer Reports rates it "much more reliable than other cars from the same model year" and J.D. Power gives the generation 80+ scores. The hybrid eCVT transmission is extremely robust with almost no reported failures - it's based on planetary gears, not belts like traditional CVTs. Most issues are minor software glitches or normal wear items. The hybrid battery warranty (10yr/150k miles) is industry-leading.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Toyota dealer or qualified specialist records essential. Verify oil changes at 10,000 km intervals maximum.
Tires
Check tread depth (minimum 3mm), tire age (date codes), and uneven wear patterns. Typical sizes: 215/55R16 or 235/45R18.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for unusual noises - hybrid engine may not start immediately (normal).
Body condition
Check for rust (rare), accident damage, paint mismatch. XV70 has excellent corrosion resistance.
Test drive
Minimum 20-30 minutes including highway speeds to evaluate hybrid system transitions.
Specific for this vehicle
Test infotainment system thoroughly
Turn car on/off multiple times. Test touchscreen responsiveness, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity. Try all buttons and features.
Check "Ready" mode operation
The hybrid system should enter "Ready" mode smoothly. Watch for any warning lights on the multi-information display.
Evaluate regenerative braking feel
Test brakes at low speeds in parking lot. Some grabbiness is normal but excessive jerking is not.
Verify intermediate steering shaft (2018-2019)
Turn steering lock-to-lock while stationary. Should be smooth without stiffness or clicking. Ask if CSP 22TE02 was completed.
Monitor hybrid battery state of charge
During test drive, watch the battery gauge. It should charge and discharge normally. Consistently low or erratic battery levels suggest degradation.
Check coolant level and condition
Coolant should be proper Toyota pink/red color, not brown or milky. Low level suggests leaks (possibly EGR cooler).
Inspect for oil consumption
Check dipstick - oil should be at proper level and clean amber color. Ask owner about oil consumption history.
Scan for diagnostic trouble codes
Use OBD-II scanner to check for stored codes, especially hybrid system codes P3xxx or VVT-i codes P0010/P0011.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Head restraint bracket welds (2023-2024)Verify completed
Instrument panel display blank (2025 - if applicable)Software update
Intermediate steering shaft CSP 22TE02 (2018)Extended warranty 10yr/150k mi
Contact Toyota with VIN to verify all recalls completed. The 2020 model year has the fewest recalls (typically only 5) while 2018 has the most (8 recalls). The 2023-2024 head restraint bracket recall affects approximately 4,212 vehicles with improperly welded rear seat brackets.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years / 100,000 km)Expired on 2019-2021
Hybrid battery warranty (10 years / 150,000 miles)Still active on many
Hybrid components (8 years / 100,000 miles)2020+ models
Steering shaft CSP (10 years / 150,000 miles)2018 models only
The hybrid battery warranty is exceptional - 10 years or 150,000 miles (240,000 km) from date of first use. However, this only covers complete battery failure where vehicle becomes inoperative, not gradual capacity degradation. Hybrid components warranty (inverter, converter, motors) is 8 years or 100,000 miles for 2020+ models. Standard 3-year factory warranty is expired on all 2019-2021 models.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.