Head-to-head reliability
BMW 535D vs Toyota Camry
How the BMW 535D and Toyota Camry compare on NHTSA complaints, recalls and crash reports — and which is the lower-risk used buy.
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint & recall records
BMW 535D vs Toyota Camry: The 535D averages 21 complaints per year with 12 recalls, while the Camry averages 206 complaints per year with 31 recalls. The 535D reports 0 crash-related complaints and 1 injury, versus 171 crash-related and 158 injuries for the Camry. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the BMW 535D or Toyota Camry more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
BMW 535D
The BMW 535D is a diesel luxury sedan that, based on NHTSA data, shows a relatively low complaint rate of about 21 per year over three years. However, the complaints cluster around serious engine and fuel system failures, including high-pressure fuel pump failures that can contaminate the entire fuel system. Recalls for EGR valves and diesel fuel pumps further indicate potential reliability concerns. For a used buyer, this means the 535D can be costly to maintain if these issues arise.
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is a mainstream family sedan with a much higher annual complaint rate of about 206 per year over ten years, but many are for less severe issues. Common complaints include power train hesitation, brake noises, and electrical glitches. With 171 crash-related complaints and 158 injuries reported, some issues may have safety implications. Overall, the Camry's higher volume of complaints reflects its popularity, but buyers should be aware of recurring problems.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | BMW 535D | Toyota Camry |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 64 Better | 2,056 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 12 Better | 31 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 0 Better | 171 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 21.3 Better | 205.6 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 1 Better | 158 |
| Reported deathsTied to owner complaints | 0 Better | 1 |
Source: NHTSA owner complaints & recall records.
What actually goes wrong
The problems owners report
The most-complained-about systems on each vehicle — what fails, and what owners say in their own words.
BMW 535D
- 01ENGINE30
- 02FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM22
- 03FUEL SYSTEM11
- 04DIESEL10
- 05POWER TRAIN7
Owners report sudden engine noise, loss of power, and stalling, sometimes at highway speeds. These failures can be dangerous and expensive to repair, often related to internal engine damage or emissions components.
High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failures are reported, which can release metal debris and contaminate the fuel system. This leads to costly repairs and potential stalling, making it a critical concern for buyers.
Complaints include stalling at intersections and issues with recall repairs for diesel fuel system components. Owners have experienced delays in getting parts, leaving them with unresolved safety risks.
Specific diesel-related complaints mirror fuel system issues, such as stalling and recall part unavailability. These problems can leave the vehicle inoperable and require specialized service.
“Hello, I have a 2014 BMW 535D, with only 46k miles. On September 14, 2025, my family experienced an unexpected and horrific incident that could have resulted with tragic consequences. This is not acceptable. While driving on the freeway at approximately 70 MP…”
“On/around 4/24/2023, I was driving home at approximately 35mph when I heard a loud noise under the car as if I had run over something. I was able to safely pull into a parking lot and immediately shut off the engine. The vehicle was hard to steer but I manage…”
Toyota Camry
- 01POWER TRAIN385
- 02UNKNOWN OR OTHER323
- 03ENGINE315
- 04SERVICE BRAKES285
- 05ELECTRICAL SYSTEM237
Owners report intermittent issues like the ignition key getting stuck in Park, requiring battery disconnection to remove. Others experience hesitation and shuddering while driving, often accompanied by a check engine light.
Multiple system malfunctions are reported, including failures in stability control, power steering, and driver-assist features. These electrical and software glitches can be unpredictable and frustrating.
Complaints include delayed throttle response, where pressing the accelerator results in a several-second delay before the car moves. This can be a safety concern in traffic and may indicate a software or mechanical issue.
Owners report the electronic parking brake failing to disengage, requiring towing and repairs. Others hear clicking or vibrating noises from the brake pedal area, which dealers sometimes attribute to the ABS system.
“My 2023 Toyota Camry has developed an intermittent defect where the ignition key becomes stuck and cannot be removed even though the dashboard shows the vehicle is in Park. The only way to remove the key is to disconnect the vehicle's battery, which is not a…”
“The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Camry. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was hesitating and shuddering, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who diagnosed the vehicle…”
Official recalls
Safety recalls on record
Federal recall campaigns — the defect, the risk, and the fix. Confirm any open recall was completed before you buy.
BMW 535D — 12 recalls
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2013-2018 BMW 328d and 328d xDrive, 2014-2018 328d Sports Wagon and 328d xDrive Sports Wagon, 2014-2016 535d and 535d xDrive, 2015 740Ld xDrive, 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d SAV and 2014-2017 X5 xDrive35d SAV vehicles equipped with an Exhaust Gas Recir…
The risk: The melting intake manifold can increase the risk of a fire.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the EGR cooler as necessary. If a leak has already occurred, the engine intake manifold will also be replaced. These repairs will be made free of charge. The recall began May 13,…
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2013-2018 328d, 328d xDrive, 2014-2018 328d Sports Wagon, 328d xDrive Sports Wagon, 2014-2016 535d, 535d xDrive, 2015 740Ld xDrive, 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d SAV, and 2014-2017 X5 xDrive35d SAV diesel vehicles equipped with an Exhaust Gas Recirculat…
The risk: A melting intake manifold increases the risk of a fire.
The fix: Dealers will replace the EGR cooler and inspect the intake manifold, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under 18V-755. Vehicles previously recalled under 18V-755 will need to ha…
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2018 328d, 328d xDrive, X5 xDrive35d, 2014-2016 535d, 535d xDrive, 2015 740Ld xDrive, and 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d vehicles. The high-pressure fuel pump may fail.
The risk: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will replace the high-pressure fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on January 14, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2013-2018 BMW 328d and 328d xDrive, 2014-2018 328d Sports Wagon and 328d xDrive Sports Wagon, 2014-2016 535d and 535d xDrive, 2015 740Ld xDrive, 2015-2017 X3 xDrive28d SAV and 2014-2017 X5 xDrive35d SAV vehicles equipped with an Exhaust Gas Recir…
The risk: The melting intake manifold can increase the risk of a fire.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the EGR cooler as necessary. If a leak has already occurred, the engine intake manifold will also be replaced. These repairs will be made free of charge. The recall began May 13,…
Toyota Camry — 31 recalls
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles. The lug nuts that attach the wheels to the vehicle may be loose, which can result in wheel detachment.
The risk: A wheel that detaches from a moving vehicle can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Dealers will inspect and tighten the lug nuts, and replace any damaged components, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles. The second-row center and right-side seats may have insufficiently welded head restraint brackets. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle…
The risk: A head restraint bracket that is insufficiently welded may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will replace the 60% rear seat-back frame sub-assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 19, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 24TB0…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short cir…
The risk: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed in February 2024. Some final remedy owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. Letters will continue…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles. The second-row center and right-side seats may have insufficiently welded head restraint brackets. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle…
The risk: A head restraint bracket that is insufficiently welded may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will replace the 60% rear seat-back frame sub-assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 19, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 24TB0…
Buyer analysis
BMW 535D or Toyota Camry: which should you buy?
The BMW 535D has far fewer complaints per year (about 21) compared to the Toyota Camry (about 206), but the 535D's issues tend to be more severe and costly, such as fuel system contamination. The Camry's higher complaint volume includes many less critical problems, but also some safety-related ones. In practice, the 535D may be more reliable in frequency but riskier in repair costs, while the Camry may have more frequent but often less expensive issues.
Key differences
- The BMW 535D has a much lower annual complaint rate (21 vs. 206), but its complaints often involve severe engine and fuel system failures that can lead to costly repairs.
- The Toyota Camry has a higher number of crash-related complaints (171) and injuries (158), while the BMW 535D reports zero crash-related complaints and one injury.
- BMW 535D recalls focus on EGR valves and diesel fuel pumps, indicating emissions and fuel delivery concerns; Camry recalls include air bag sensors and seat issues.
- Camry owners frequently report electronic glitches and brake noises, whereas 535D owners report stalling and fuel contamination, which can be more dangerous.
- Check for any signs of fuel system contamination, such as metal debris in the fuel filter or tank, which can result from high-pressure fuel pump failure.
- Listen for unusual engine noises or rough running, and verify that all recall repairs (especially for EGR valve and fuel pump) have been completed.
- Test the ignition key removal in Park to ensure it doesn't stick, and check for any hesitation or shuddering during a test drive.
- Inspect the electronic parking brake operation and listen for clicking or vibrating noises from the brake pedal area.
Before you buy
- Obtain a full vehicle history report and confirm all recalls have been addressed, especially for the BMW's fuel system and the Camry's air bag sensors.
- Have a certified mechanic inspect the BMW's fuel system for contamination and the Camry's power train and brakes for the issues reported.
- During a test drive, pay attention to any hesitation, stalling, or unusual noises in both vehicles.
- For the BMW, ask about the high-pressure fuel pump service history; for the Camry, check for software updates related to throttle response and driver-assist systems.
- Verify that the electronic parking brake on the Camry engages and disengages smoothly, and that the ignition key can be removed easily.
Check the actual car
Comparing models is smart. Checking the VIN is essential.
Brand averages tell you the trend. A VIN check tells you what's wrong with the specific BMW 535D or Toyota Camry in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- BMW 535D vs Toyota Camry
- BMW 535D total complaints
- 64
- Toyota Camry total complaints
- 2,056
- BMW 535D total recalls
- 12
- Toyota Camry total recalls
- 31
- BMW 535D avg complaints/year
- 21.3
- Toyota Camry avg complaints/year
- 205.6
- More reliable overall
- BMW 535D
- BMW 535D top complaint area
- ENGINE
- Toyota Camry top complaint area
- POWER TRAIN