This procedure covers removal and replacement of the headlight switch assembly located in the instrument panel left of the steering column on 2012-2017 Toyota Camry vehicles with the 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Headlight switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or verify connector compatibility

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key from ignition
3. Allow vehicle to sit for at least 5 minutes to allow airbag capacitors to discharge
4. Gather all tools and new headlight switch assembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Open hood and locate the battery in the engine compartment. Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative (-) battery terminal bolt. Remove the cable from the terminal and position it away from the battery to prevent accidental contact. Wait at least 3 minutes before proceeding to allow airbag system to fully discharge.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the lower plastic cover beneath the steering column. Remove the Phillips screws securing the lower cover (typically 2-3 screws). Carefully pull the lower cover away from the column and set aside. You may need to tilt the cover slightly to clear the steering column adjustment lever.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the Phillips screws securing the upper steering column cover (typically 2 screws at the bottom edge). Remove these screws. Grasp the upper cover and gently pull upward and forward to disengage the clips at the rear. Set the upper cover aside.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove left instrument panel trim panel
   Locate the small trim panel to the left of the steering column where the headlight switch is mounted. This panel may have one Phillips screw at the bottom. Remove any screws, then use a trim removal tool or flathead screwdriver (wrapped in cloth) to carefully pry the panel away from the dashboard. Start at the bottom edge and work upward. The panel is held by plastic clips. Pull the panel straight back once clips are released.
5. 5

   Access headlight switch mounting
   With the trim panel removed, you will see the back of the headlight switch assembly. The switch is mounted to the trim panel or to a bracket behind it. Identify the switch mounting configuration and any additional fasteners that may be present.
6. 6

   Disconnect headlight switch electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the rear of the headlight switch. Press the locking tab on the connector while gently pulling the connector straight back away from the switch. Do not pull on the wires themselves. If access is limited, you may need to partially remove the switch from its mounting first, depending on your specific model year configuration.
   ⚠Note the orientation of the connector before removal to ensure correct reassembly.
7. 7

   Remove headlight switch from mounting
   The headlight switch is typically held by plastic clips or small screws integrated into the switch assembly. If clips are used, squeeze or press the release tabs while pulling the switch forward out of the trim panel. If screws are present, remove them and pull the switch assembly free. On some model years, the switch may twist-lock into place - rotate counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn to release.
8. 8

   Install new headlight switch
   Take the new headlight switch assembly and align it with the mounting location in the trim panel or bracket. If the switch uses a twist-lock mechanism, insert and rotate clockwise 1/4 turn until it locks. If clips are used, push firmly until the switch clicks into place. If screws are used, install them finger-tight. Connect the electrical connector to the rear of the switch, ensuring the locking tab clicks into place.
9. 9

   Reinstall left instrument panel trim
   Position the trim panel with the new switch installed back into the dashboard opening. Align all mounting points and press firmly around the perimeter to engage the plastic clips. You should hear or feel the clips snap into place. Install any screws that were removed, tightening securely but not over-tightening the plastic.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, engaging the rear clips first, then pressing down at the front. Install the Phillips screws at the bottom edge. Position the lower cover beneath the column, ensuring it clears the adjustment lever, and install the Phillips screws to secure.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and test
    Return to the battery and reconnect the negative terminal cable. Using a 10mm socket and torque wrench if available, tighten the battery terminal bolt to specification. Do not overtighten as this can damage the terminal. Turn the ignition to ON position (do not start engine) and test all headlight switch functions including headlights, parking lights, and dimmer control.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim panels are fully seated and clips are engaged before driving
2. Verify no tools or fasteners were left in the instrument panel area
3. Reset clock and radio presets as needed

Verification

• Test headlight switch in all positions: Off, Parking Lights, Headlights, and Auto (if equipped)
• Verify instrument panel dimmer function operates smoothly through full range
• Check that all dashboard trim panels are secure with no rattles or gaps
• Confirm no warning lights are illuminated on instrument cluster related to lighting system
• Test high beam and turn signal stalks to ensure no interference from reassembly

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