The 2009 Toyota Camry has 7 recalls, the most serious being three separate fire risks involving the power window master switch and, on vehicles with aftermarket heated seats, a seat heater element that can short circuit.
The power window switch issue appears in two related campaigns: in both cases, insufficient lubrication inside the switch assembly allows moisture and debris to cause a short circuit, the switch overheats, and the plastic housing can melt and catch fire. The heated seat concern applies only to vehicles fitted with certain aftermarket seat heaters distributed through Southeast Toyota, where a damaged copper heating element can short circuit and ignite.
On the drivetrain side, the accelerator pedal can become stiff, slow to return to idle, or stick in a partially pressed position, leaving the vehicle accelerating faster than the driver intends and raising the risk of a crash.
Two recalls address the brake light switch, which is the same underlying defect described in overlapping filings. Silicone grease that contacted the switch during assembly can increase electrical resistance inside it, causing the brake lights to go dark so following drivers get no warning the vehicle is slowing. In some cases the same contamination can trigger warning lights on the instrument panel, prevent the engine from starting, or lock the shifter in Park.
The remaining recall covers a labeling issue on certain vehicles where an inaccurate load capacity label could lead owners to overload the vehicle or tires beyond their rated limits.
At a glance
What can fail
The electrical wiring in aftermarket seat heaters with copper strand heating elements can be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed, potentially causing electrical issues.
What the fix does
Dealers will disconnect the seat heaters at no charge and refund the purchase price of the accessory.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
At a glance
What can fail
The power window master switch may have inconsistent grease lubrication on its sliding electrical contacts, potentially causing the switch to malfunction.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the switch and apply lubricant if needed, or replace the circuit board if abnormalities are found.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The weight capacity label on your vehicle is inaccurate by more than one percent, which means the stated weight limits don't match actual specifications required by federal safety standards.
What the fix does
Toyota will send you a corrected label with installation instructions. Some vehicles may need additional repairs being finalized. Contact Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Power window master switches were lubricated using an imprecise process that created irregularities. These irregularities can cause the switches to malfunction and overheat.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the switch and apply special heat-inhibiting grease, or replace damaged switches at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Silicone grease on the stop lamp switch contact surface may increase electrical resistance, causing warning lamps to illuminate, preventing engine start, blocking gear shift from Park, or disabling brake lights.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the stop lamp switch at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Silicone grease may have contaminated the stop lamp switch during assembly. If grease enters the switch, warning lights could stay on, the engine may not start, the gear shift may stick in PARK, or brake lights may not work.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the stop lamp switch with a new one.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The friction lever inside the accelerator pedal sensor assembly can become smooth during normal use. When condensation forms on the worn surface—such as from using the heater without air conditioning on a cold pedal—friction increases. This can make the pedal harder to press, slower to return, or in severe cases, mechanically stuck in a partially depressed position.
What the fix does
Dealers will install a reinforcement bar in the accelerator pedal to restore smooth operation. This service is performed free of charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
