Because existing sources of auto reliability information left much to be desired, in late 2005 I started conducting my own reliability research at TrueDelta.com. TrueDelta reports absolute stats like "trips to the shop" that make the differences between cars much clearer. Results are updated four times a year, so any significant changes in a model's reliability become apparent quickly.

Over 500 Camry owners have already signed up to participate, but more are needed. Espcially if we want to post separate results for each powertrain.

Participants simply report repairs the month after they occur on a one-page survey. When there are no repairs, they simply report an approximate odometer reading four times a year, at the end of each quarter.

To encourage participation, panel members receive full access to the results for free.

For the details, and to sign up to help out:

Vehicle reliability research

Now over 700 Camry owners signed up.

Latest results here:

Toyota Camry reliability comparisons

We have again updated results for the Camry, to include owner experiences through December 31, 2009. In terms of repair trips per 100 cars per year:

2009: 6

2008: 8

2007: 10 to 29, depending on engine

2005: 30

2004: 32

2003: 88

2002: 24

2001: 62

2000: 129

1999: 53

1998: 102

1997: 52

1996: 79

All but the 1998, 2000, and 2003 are better than average. Sample sizes are small and even very small for most years before 2004, so those results are imprecise.

We'll have further updates in May and August. With more participants, we could provide more precise information and cover all model years from 1995 on.

Toyota Camry reliability comparisons