2013 Toyota Camry
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Power train is the leading concern among 301 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 16th highest complaint count among 25 Camry model years with reports.
Of the 2013 reports, 46 involved a crash and 1 involved a fire. 29 people were injured and 1 person died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Visibility, windshield wiper/washer, switch/wiringOct 17, 2013
Toyota Motor Engineering & manufacturing North America, Inc. (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Camry and Camry HV, model year 2013 Avalon and Avalon HV and model year 2014 Corolla vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the windshield wiper switch assembly may short circuit. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard, No. 104, "Windshield Wiping and Washing Systems."
A short circuit could cause inoperative windshield wipers, reducing driver visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the wiper switch assembly, free of charge. The recall began on November 8, 2013. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
Campaign 13V505000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical systemOct 17, 2013
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Avalon, Avalon HV, Venza, Camry, and Camry HV vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the drain hose for the air conditioning condenser may become clogged causing water to accumulate at the bottom of the air conditioning condenser unit housing. The accumulated water may then leak through a seam in the housing onto the air bag control module potentially resulting in a short circuit of the module.
A short circuit may cause the air bags to become disabled or inadvertently deploy. An inadvertent airbag deployment can increase the risk of injury or the possibility of a crash. An inoperative airbag can increase the risk of injury in a severe crash. The power steering assist could also become inoperable resulting in increased steering effort and can increase the risk of a crash at low speeds.
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will seal the air conditioning condenser unit housing and install a protective cover on the airbag control module, free of charge. The recall began on February 5, 2014. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
Campaign 13V442000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
301 reports, newest first.
Engine, Jun 5, 2023, fire
We purchased Toyota Camry in 2013. Currently, it has a mileage of less than 100K. We regularly serviced it at Landers Toyota dealership, and the last maintenance was performed a week before the accident. Driving home from work, my wife heard a bang and felt a jolt after which she was forced to stop. There were no warning signs. The car was filled with smoke and seconds later the flames appeared from underneath the car (luckily, she managed to escape without injuries). I towed the car to the garage for inspection and a large (about 4-5 inches) and wide (about 1 inch) crack was found on the engine. I contacted my insurance rep and the adjustor will inspect the vehicle within 1-3 business days.
Air bags, Other or unspecified, Jun 5, 2023
I just bought my car it's a 2013camry SE and I noticed the paint on the roof is flaking and now there's a couple spots on the trunk that are flaking I recently found out that Toyota has a recall on that issue and I have the pearl blue paint job I've never seen a car do this I was just in shock when I noticed it was occurring it's just the top of the car flaking and I always wax it every 3 months I never got a letter from Toyota I am the 2nd owner I have another issue with my ac not working and my airbag lights on if u can give me a call at [XXX] id greatly appreciate it thank you for your help INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Power train, May 23, 2023
The transmission malfunctioned during acceleration. Toyota acknowledged the defect torque converter was used for 2012 - 2014 Camry. However, the manufacturer refused to repair or replace it because the car haven't been driven during COVID pandemic, and warranty expired. During the acceleration after traffic light or lane merging, the car would shudder, stall, jerk and shake. This could get others or myself killed because the car suddenly slows down or stops. The defect torque converter has been inspected and confirmed by a local Toyota dealer (Bernardi Toyota), but they refused to address voluntarily. There was no warning, or error prior to the failure. It happened suddenly from a few months ago, with ~100,000 miles. So basically, the manufacturer (Toyota) is aware that they sold a defect product, which could get someone killed, but refused to repair or replace it. They just hoped customers didn't drive the cars and let the time lapse, then they are off the hook. I am attaching the documents issued by Toyota, where they acknowledged the defect parts.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Apr 10, 2023
I am sending this msg in regards to my 2013 Toyota Camry SE that I leased and decided to purchase after the lease ended from Toyota Heritage in Catonsville. I am experiencing problems with my torque converter. This is an issue that Toyota knew that would happen to my car and now that I am experiencing this problem Toyota doesn’t feel that they are responsible for the fix since the warranty has expired. I notice this problem in February 2019 when driving to work every morning at the same spot it felt like I was driving on the edge of the road. I figured it was road damage, because it would happen at the same spot every morning curve in the road. On March 16, 2019 due to COVID-19 we were sent home to work from home until Feb 2022. I wasn’t driving my car much due to COVID. We are now back in the office 1 day a week. In July 2022, I had my brakes done by a licensed mechanic and I informed him about the issue I was experiencing and he told me it was my torque converter, his mother has the same issue with her 2013 Camry and Toyota is aware of the problem and not paying for the repair l. In Oct or Nov, I took my car to Heritage Toyota in OM for my usual maintenance and I informed the advisor of the issue and he stated it’s my torque converter and the warranty has expired and I will be responsible for the $2000 repair. I never received the letter they claimed was sent and no one can send me proof of the letter that they was sent to me. I can’t understand how Toyota is not responsible for this problem they knew would eventually would happen and when asked why didn’t they fixed it when I was bringing my car in for maintenance I was told because I did not report there was a problem. I told the advisor it wasn’t a problem then, I am experiencing the problem now. He didn’t have an answer. I even called Toyota Corp and getting the same reply. I am now thinking my transmission is going up due to this issue. Please help me!! Thank you.
Service brakes, Mar 18, 2023
When starting the car in low temperatures, approximately less than 30 degrees Fahrenheit, the ABS, VSC, and BRAKE warning lights remain on after starting. subsequent reading with an OBD reader indicates a C1246 trouble code. Operation of the vehicle without working ABS and VSC systems makes the vehicle inherently less safe and stable. I experienced several episodes of poor braking and skidding when driving in snow or rain before the problem was successfully diagnosed and repaired. The vehicle was serviced by Orland Toyota several times before the problem was able to be reproduced and repaired. A complete replacement of the ABS controller was required.
Other or unspecified, Mar 12, 2023
The 2012-2014 Toyota Camry U760 ATM ECM Software update recall refers to a shudder that can potentially happen in these Toyota models made during these years. The shudder comes from the transmission, especially during the acceleration of the Camry models
Electrical system, Structure, Engine, Jan 13, 2023
I had this car for 5 months, the dealer lied to me about the engine being repaired, the coverage he has on the vehicle. The electronic doesn't work front driver/ passenger doors, we have to unlock the back doors to get into the car and hop over to the front. The hood doesn't have a holder to keep the hood up on its own, the electrical sound blows out and I had to buy more wires and sound system to equip. The day it started tripping, first was when the car didn't start, it made an awful clicking noise. I got a jump it started. I decided to buy new battery; however, the check engine light is on, and check service soon light on. I checked to see if there was any oil, there's no oil. I called the dealership advise him of the problem and he blows me off as if it's not his concern. I'm extremely upset because I trusted that his word to sell me a good and no bad conditions car. I have me and my friends with me along driving, my friend said, "C car is smoking", I looked in the mirror, oh my God I see white thick smoke from the back. I immediately pull over to look at the problem. I can't drive. I called my insurance to get the car tolled to my home. I called the dealers, I had no good help from him at all. I'm out of a car what to do? My wife called Toyota company to tell them what going on and to get the Maintenace history (tune up, spark plugs and oil change). The dealer & the lender didn't want nothing to do with this car, I'm so hurt because I've been deceived for my money. He did the contract the way he wanted, and lenders company to continue to report a fraud contract on my credit report. I have less than time to turn the car back or continue to pay for a broken car. My wife side the car its safe anymore to continue to drive or put any more money into a car you didn't damage. Who is responsible, the manufacturers said they can't help me it's passed the mile; I have to pay out of pocket. This contract is all a lie the amount value and work. I need help with to
Engine, Jan 7, 2023
Toyota engine are still having the excessive oil consumption issue that has caused deadly concerns. My vehicle is doing the same
Wheels, Oct 3, 2022
While driving on highway tire pressure light blinking.. i checked with tire shop they told everything is good
Seat belts, Structure, Sep 14, 2022
1. The seatbelts in the back seat doesnt not work. It is not strapping and clicking. I am unable to properly strap in my nephew's carseat properly. This not a dealership issue this a manfacturer issue and it needs to be recalled. God forbidden that I get into an accident with my nephew in the car. 2. Recently the car handles on the driver's side both of broken off from the car. I am unable to open my car properly. I dont understand why it broke off I didnt pull on it hard one day it just came 3. The child lock option doesnt work one day I was driving on the high way and my nephew was open to open the back door with the child lock button on. These are major issues that need to be investigated and recalled. 4. The door on the passenger side in the back does not open from the inside. Again dangerous because what if there is a fire and my passengers can't get out.
Air bags, Jul 7, 2022
The spiral coil is rusted and needs to be replaced. Notes of mechanic will be provided
Suspension, Jun 22, 2022
Truck has only 93,000 miles after 19 years. Housed in a garage. Gets undercoat wash mid-winter and post-winter. yet frame severely rusted out to the point that vehicle can't be loaded or tow 3,500 lb boat/trailer.
Other or unspecified, Jun 2, 2022
I am the owner of 2013 Toyota Camry SE VIN# 4T1BF1FKXDU279537. My vehicle shudders when I drive over 25 mph. On 19 April 2022 I took my 2013 Toyota Camry SE to the Glen Toyota dealership. After the diagnosis the representative stated that I needed a new torque converter. The cost would be $2902.30 to repair. After further investigation I discovered Toyota offered the Torque replacement at no charge under the Toyota enhancement warranty program. Under the extended repair program the torque converter was replaced at no charge for 8 years or 150,000 miles. My vehicle is currently under 150,000 miles and the 8 year mark occurred during Covid19 when businesses were shut down. The service adviser told me the dealership would not cover the repair. Under a normal situation this would be acceptable. Due to unusual circumstances related to Covid19, I am requesting that my vehicle's torque converter be replaced at no cost to me. I have uploaded the document to the Toyota Warranty Enhancement Program that explains the shudder while driving under light throttle conditions between approximately 25 – 50 mph. Also included is the service recommendation from the Glen Toyota dealership that shows the seriousness of this repair. I do not fell safe driving this vehicle until the torque converter is replaced. Thank you.
Seat belts, May 18, 2022
the drivers seatbelt, does not engage, if i keep clicking the button it sometimes catches, but the warning alert sound stays on even when it finally engages
Power train, May 6, 2022
Transmission torque converter recall... I bought the car 2 years ago used didn't kno about the recall... when the transmission started the shutter I looked it up.... this was last year... everytime I go to toyota since they have been giving me a hard time... when I finally found the recall number info for them they took so long till the recall was over now they want me to pay for it out of pocket... I don't think that is very fair on their end or customer friendly
Power train, Jan 16, 2022
transmission is pausing around 20mph and bad shudder around 45-50mph with transmission. Just bought this car in June 2021 problem has been going for about 3 months since owner vehicle.
Power train, Dec 28, 2021
Torque Converter started shuddering a couple of weeks ago. I was stranded in busy intersection for just long enough to scare me into understanding that this issue is dangerous. I found that Toyota had issued LSC E03 - Limited Service Campaign and I was not notified. There was no recall. Instead there was a window of time that I missed, apparently. How many 100's of thousands of Camry's are having this same issue but were unable to afford the cost after Toyota's Warranty Extension ended? I would bet it's alot. This will impact young peoples, and the working poor especially hard because they are the ones buying used cars, and they typically don't have the time or the money for expensive repairs. Even if the repairs are for safety. So, they will be driving the cars with a known safety flaw designed and sold by Toyota.
Power train, Vehicle speed control, Dec 4, 2021
While driving have noticed shuddering at random times. Car just now has 134k on it and the service records never showed what computer update was done. Was unaware of any issues with torque converter issues. Have had cruise control set to speed limit and had car acceleration up to 25miles over speed set, car has also slowed down without anything being changed. Went to dealership because torque converter tsb and was told it was out of warranty in Aug 2021. had ecm reprogrammed with original owner in 2014... toyota knew this was an issue and never corrected parts
Power train, Oct 18, 2021
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Camry. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the vehicle started to shudder and jerk while the vehicle accelerating at speeds of 45 MPH or above. The contact took the vehicle to a local dealer who diagnosed the failure as torque converter shudder. The contact was informed that the torque converter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 109,555.
Other or unspecified, Oct 11, 2021
Faulty torque converter and engine control module software glitch - TSB-NOSB0034-14R2 Original owner never notified about the Toyota Service Bulletin. I purchased car from Toyota Dealer who knew of problem but it did not happen during test drive and I then the day I drove it home, it started happening. I took it back and they wanted an additional $2400 to repair what should have been repaired on a recall. I have read many many complaints about this same issue with many 2012 and 2013 Camry's and I believe that this should have been recalled!!!!!!
Power train, Sep 17, 2021
Randomly vehicle fails to accelerate fully transmission shutters during this period.
Power train, Aug 16, 2021
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Camry. The contact stated while driving at low speeds, the vehicle would hesitate. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to continue driving the vehicle to his destination. The contact called and made the local dealer aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 171,000.
Latches/locks/linkages, Aug 11, 2021
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Camry. The contact stated that the rear driver’s side interior door latch was not able to open the door. The dealer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 52,000.
Seat belts, Jul 15, 2021
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Camry. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the front driver’s side seat belt would not lock or remain secured in the buckle. The seat belt warning light remained illuminated at all time. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 188,000.
Power train, Vehicle speed control, Other or unspecified, Apr 14, 2021
THE CAR STUTTERS REALLY BAD AT LOW SPEEDS, I WENT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY SAID I WAS OUTSIDE OF WARRANTY BY TWO WEEKS BUT IT WAS THE TORQUE CONVERTER, I HAVE BEEN HAVING THIS PROBLEM OFF AND ON FOR YEARS BUT THOUGHT IT WAS SOMETHING SMALL BECAUSE IT WOULDN'T LAST LONG, HOWEVER FOR THE PAST 3 MONTHS OR SO IT HAS GOTTEN PROGRESSIVELY WORSE AND DOES IT EVERY TIME, WE THOUGHT WE WOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR A DIAGNOSTICS WHICH IS OVER $100 WHICH IS WHY WE DIDN'T TAKE IT SOONER, HOWEVER THE DAY THAT WE TOOK IT THEY SAID IT WAS OUT OF WARRANTY BY 2 WEEKS AND WHEN WE CALLED TOYOTA THEY WOULD NOT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR IT EVEN THOUGH THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE WITH MY YEAR MAKE AND MODEL TOYOTA, JUST ASKING FOR HELP GETTING THIS HAZARDOUS AND SAFETY ISSUE RECALLED.