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2012 TOYOTA CAMRY

2.5L I4FWDAUTOMATICgas
2 active safety recalls on this vehicle — view recalls
Repairs420Labor595Torque3702Fluid6DTC921Battery1Maintenance0Recalls2
steering

Electric Power Steering Module

for 2012 Toyota Camry 2.5L I4 · FWD
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
1.5 h
Tools
8
Steps
11

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the Electric Power Steering (EPS) control module on the 2012-2017 Toyota Camry with 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

Disconnecting the battery will erase radio presets and may require window auto-up/down recalibration
The EPS module contains sensitive electronics - avoid dropping or exposing to moisture
ℹ️A steering wheel position calibration may be required after module replacement using a scan tool

Tools required

10mm socket and ratchetEssential
12mm socket and ratchetEssential
14mm socket and ratchetEssential
Torque wrench (10-150 Nm range)Essential
Flathead screwdriver
Trim removal tool set
Wire brush
Electrical contact cleaner

Parts

  • Electric Power Steering Control Module × 1 — Use OEM specification
  • Dielectric grease × 1 — Electrical connector grease

Preparation

  1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
  2. Turn ignition off and remove key
  3. Open hood and locate battery in engine compartment
  4. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait 3 minutes for airbag system to discharge
  5. Locate the EPS module mounted on the steering column under the dashboard on driver side

Procedure

  1. 1
    Remove lower dash panel
    Remove the lower dashboard trim panel below the steering column. Remove the retaining screws and carefully pull the panel away from the dash to release the clips. Set panel aside.
  2. 2
    Access steering column area
    If necessary, remove the knee airbag panel or additional trim pieces to gain clear access to the steering column and EPS module. The module is typically mounted on the side or bottom of the steering column assembly.
    Handle airbag components carefully and store face-up in a safe location away from work area
  3. 3
    Disconnect EPS module electrical connectors
    Locate the main electrical connector(s) on the EPS control module. Press the locking tab and carefully disconnect each connector from the module. Note the connector positions and routing for reinstallation.
  4. 4
    Remove EPS module mounting hardware
    Remove the mounting bolts securing the EPS module to the steering column bracket. Support the module as you remove the final fastener to prevent it from falling.
    Torque spec
    Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
  5. 5
    Remove EPS control module
    Carefully remove the EPS module from the vehicle. Note the orientation and any grounding straps or additional connections. Inspect the mounting bracket and connectors for damage or corrosion.
  6. 6
    Prepare new EPS module
    Unpack the new EPS control module. Verify part number matches the original module. Inspect electrical connector pins for damage and apply a small amount of dielectric grease to connector terminals to prevent corrosion.
  7. 7
    Install new EPS module
    Position the new EPS module onto the steering column bracket in the correct orientation. Start all mounting bolts by hand to ensure proper thread engagement before tightening.
  8. 8
    Torque mounting bolts
    Using a torque wrench, tighten the EPS module mounting bolts to specification in a cross pattern to ensure even pressure.
    Torque spec
    Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
  9. 9
    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the EPS module. Ensure each connector clicks securely into place and locking tabs are fully engaged. Verify proper routing of wiring harnesses.
  10. 10
    Reinstall interior trim
    Reinstall the knee airbag panel (if removed), lower dash panel, and all other trim pieces in reverse order of removal. Ensure all clips are properly seated and screws are tightened securely.
  11. 11
    Reconnect battery
    Reconnect the negative battery cable. Do not start the vehicle yet - allow the EPS system to perform initial power-up diagnostics for 30 seconds.

Reassembly

  1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated with locking tabs engaged
  2. Verify all interior trim panels are properly secured with no gaps or loose clips
  3. Reset power windows by fully lowering and raising each window while holding the switch for 2 seconds at full up position

Verification

  • Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine - verify EPS warning light illuminates then extinguishes after 3-5 seconds
  • Start engine and verify no EPS warning lights remain on the dashboard
  • Turn steering wheel lock to lock while stationary - verify smooth operation with no unusual noises or resistance
  • Test drive vehicle at low speed in safe area to confirm proper power steering assist function
  • If EPS warning light remains on or steering feels abnormal, perform steering angle sensor calibration using appropriate scan tool
  • Scan for diagnostic trouble codes - address any EPS-related codes before returning vehicle to service

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