What to Do When Your 2022 Camry Feels Underpowered or Delayed on Acceleration
When your 2022 Camry feels underpowered or delayed on acceleration, it’s usually due to minor sensor, software, or maintenance issues. Regular service and prompt attention to performance changes can restore smooth throttle response.
If your 2022 Toyota Camry feels slow to respond or struggles to accelerate when you press the gas, you’re not alone.
Many owners have reported slight hesitation or delay when merging onto highways or overtaking traffic. This lag can stem from throttle calibration, transmission tuning, or fuel delivery issues.
Modern Camry models use an electronically controlled throttle system designed to balance performance and efficiency. While that makes for smoother operation, it can sometimes result in delayed response if certain sensors, software, or mechanical components aren’t functioning perfectly.
Delayed acceleration can feel like the engine isn’t reacting quickly enough or lacks the power you expect. Below are common reasons for this behavior and how to address them.
Problem | Description | Recommended Fix |
Throttle Body Carbon Buildup | Dirt and carbon can restrict airflow, leading to laggy throttle response. | Clean or replace the throttle body |
Transmission Calibration | The 8 speed automatic may hesitate between gears during quick acceleration. | Dealer software update or reflash |
Dirty Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) | Incorrect air readings cause sluggish power delivery. | Clean or replace MAF sensor |
Low Quality Fuel or Clogged Injectors | Poor fuel quality can reduce combustion efficiency. | Use fuel injector cleaner or switch to top tier gasoline |
Weak 12V Battery or Electrical Issue | Voltage fluctuations affect throttle sensitivity and response. | Test and replace weak battery |
Toyota dealers sometimes offer software updates to improve shift timing and throttle response for newer Camry models. Checking for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) is a good place to start.
The cost of repairing delayed acceleration depends on the root cause. Simple maintenance fixes are affordable, while electronic or transmission related issues can be more involved.
Service | Estimated Cost (Parts + Labor) |
Throttle body cleaning | $120–$180 |
MAF sensor cleaning or replacement | $100–$250 |
Transmission software update | $100–$200 |
Fuel injector cleaning | $150–$300 |
Battery replacement | $180–$250 |
If hesitation persists after these steps, a deeper diagnostic scan can help pinpoint whether the issue is with the throttle control module or transmission programming.
Keeping your Camry’s powertrain in top shape is mostly about preventive maintenance. Follow these practices to minimize future lag or hesitation.
These small steps can make a noticeable difference in day to day driving performance.
A momentary hesitation during gear changes is fairly common in modern automatic transmissions. However, if your Camry struggles to accelerate or lags consistently, it could point to an electrical or fuel delivery issue.
Delaying a proper diagnosis can cause additional wear on the transmission or throttle components. Have a certified technician perform a road test and scan for stored trouble codes to determine the exact cause.
Powertrain and electronic throttle repairs can become costly once the factory warranty expires. Granger Warranty offers factory backed extended coverage that includes the transmission, throttle system, sensors, and ECU components.
With coverage for Toyota, Ford, Chevy, and other major brands, Granger Warranty helps protect against unexpected repair bills while ensuring your vehicle receives certified service and OEM replacement parts.
It’s often caused by throttle body buildup or transmission shift programming. A software update or cleaning service usually helps.
Yes. Clogged injectors restrict fuel flow, resulting in uneven power delivery or sluggish acceleration.
If you feel delayed response when pressing the gas or see RPM fluctuations, the throttle body may need cleaning.
Yes, if caused by a covered component such as the transmission or electronic throttle body. Routine maintenance, however, is not included.
A factory backed plan from GrangerWarranty.com covers key systems like the throttle control module, transmission, and sensors, reducing the cost of future repairs.
When your 2022 Camry feels underpowered or delayed on acceleration, it’s usually due to minor sensor, software, or maintenance issues. Regular service and prompt attention to performance changes can restore smooth throttle response.
For lasting confidence and protection, consider a factory backed extended warranty from Granger Warranty. It keeps your Camry’s powertrain and throttle system protected so you can enjoy reliable performance mile after mile.
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