2007–2011 Toyota Camry / RAV4 / Highlander (and more): known reliability problem

The problem

2.4L 2AZ-FE — piston-ring oil consumption (warranty-extension TSB); check the oil level and for burning.

Vehicles affected

Toyota — Camry, RAV4, Highlander, Scion tC, Solara, Matrix, model years 2007–2011. Adjacent years and trims with different engines are generally not affected; the exact engine/transmission in the specific car is what matters.

What it means for a buyer

This is a real, documented pattern — but often preventable or already addressed. It is a reason to inspect harder and negotiate, not necessarily to walk away: a car with records showing the issue was serviced can still be a good buy. For context, a Toyota averages about $441/year in maintenance and typically retains roughly 66% of its value after five years.

Considering one anyway? Do this

• Ask directly whether the affected component was repaired/replaced, and get the paperwork.
• Get a pre-purchase inspection from an independent mechanic and mention this exact issue.
• Check open recalls by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
• Pull the free government title history (salvage/flood/odometer) at the NMVTIS portal.
• Price it against unaffected rivals — this issue is negotiating leverage.