Common Toyota Camry Hybrid Problems in Hamilton
If you’re cruising around Hamilton in a Toyota Camry Hybrid, you’ll know they’re solid cars – reliable as, and they handle the Waikato weather, the speed bumps on Grey Street, and the potholes in places like Nawton better than most. Still, even the best cars throw a tantrum now and then, especially if you’re clocking up the KMs between places like Cambridge, Te Awamutu, or Tamahere. We see a fair few Camry Hybrids come through the workshop here at Grimmer Motors, and thought we’d run you through the most common issues we come across, so you know what to watch out for.
What sorts of problems pop up?
Like any car, Camry Hybrids have their quirks. We’ve had everyone from first car owners to experienced fleet drivers cruise in, asking about weird Bluetooth echoes when they’re on the phone in the car, especially after a slog through city traffic on Victoria Street. It might seem minor, but sometimes it means there’s a glitch in the hands-free system. Some owners have noticed transmission hiccups, where the car slows down or speeds up without touching the pedal – not great if you’re merging onto the expressway or stuck in stop-start on Anglesea Street. Brake issues and hybrid battery problems also tend to show up as the car gets a bit older, or if you’ve been racking up the miles across the Waikato on weekends. Always keep an eye on those hybrid system warning lights – they’re there for a reason!
Year-by-Year Camry Hybrid Problems
2018–2021: These newer models are usually pretty sweet, especially out at the AGS carpark or zipping along Peachgrove Road. The main thing we’ve seen is the Bluetooth echo thing – nothing major, but a bit annoying. If it sticks around after you’ve checked your phone or done software updates, yell out to your dealer.
2018–2019: Slightly older, and we’ve had a few people (not just the lads, either – plenty of women bringing theirs in from Rototuna or Hamilton East) complaining about transmission problems. Stuff like delayed gear changes, the car slipping in and out of gear, or juddering when you hit the accelerator. If that’s happening, best bet is to get one of our techs to scan your Powertrain Control Module. Might end up needing a used or reconditioned transmission, or sometimes just a rebuild. More on car computer issues here if you’re keen.
2012–2017: Bit more wear by now. Seen a few with dodgy power brake boosters (especially the 2013 and 2014 sedans), so if your brake warning light comes on or there’s chattering from the pedal, don’t muck about. We had a fella from Morrinsville come in recently with this exact problem. Sometimes on the 2012s, you’ve got to really stomp the brakes for them to work. Hybrid batteries on high-mileage cars around this age can start playing up – classic signs are dashboard warning lights or lack of power when you try to boot it up Te Rapa Road. If your brakes don’t feel right, get to a mechanic pronto – you can read more about brake repairs here.
2007–2011: Now we’re talking older Camry Hybrids – we still see a few out around Huntly or Raglan. Main issues; patchy transmission, brakes needing loads of pressure, and sometimes they chew through oil (black smoke out the back, sluggish acceleration). Some of these were recalled for brake defects, so you might even get lucky and be covered under an extended warranty if it’s an ABS problem. If your oil drops quicker than a Ford Mondeo’s resale value, check it regularly and sort out any leaks fast – sometimes it’s a full engine job, sometimes it’s just seals and gaskets.
Hybrid Repairs in the Waikato – No Worries
If your Camry Hybrid’s acting up, doesn’t feel quite right, or you want the hybrid battery checked or replaced, just swing by Grimmer Motors. Whether you’re from Hamilton or coming in from Ngāruawāhia, we’ll sort you out and explain what’s going on, plain and simple. We see everything from old Peugeot diesels to late model Suzuki Swifts and Skoda Octavias through these doors – you’re in good company.