This procedure covers removal and replacement of the ignition lock cylinder assembly on a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry with 2.5L I4 engine, including steering column cover removal and key cylinder extraction.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition lock cylinder assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering column cover clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Ensure ignition key is available and functional
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait minimum 90 seconds for airbag system discharge
4. Adjust steering wheel to lowest position and tilt column fully forward for maximum access
5. Ensure steering wheel is in straight-ahead position

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the two Phillips screws on the underside of the lower steering column cover. Remove both screws and carefully pull the lower cover downward and away from the column. Store screws in magnetic tray to prevent loss.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With lower cover removed, locate the upper cover retaining screws (typically 2-3 screws along the top edge). Remove all screws, then carefully separate the upper cover from the column assembly. Disconnect any wire connectors if equipped with steering wheel position memory or other electronics.
   Torque spec

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

   Locate ignition lock cylinder assembly
   With covers removed, identify the ignition lock cylinder housing on the right side of the steering column. Note the position of the cylinder release access hole, typically located on the side or bottom of the cylinder housing. Use flashlight to clearly identify all components.
4. 4

   Turn key to ACC position
   Insert the key into the ignition lock cylinder and turn it to the ACC (accessory) position. This is the first position past OFF. The cylinder must be in this position to release the locking pin mechanism. Do not force if key does not turn smoothly.
5. 5

   Depress cylinder release pin
   While holding the key in ACC position, locate the small release pin hole on the cylinder housing. Insert a small pick or awl into the hole and press the internal release pin firmly. You should feel the pin depress approximately 3-5mm. Maintain pressure on the release pin.
6. 6

   Extract ignition lock cylinder
   While maintaining pressure on the release pin with one hand, use the other hand to gently pull the key and cylinder assembly straight out of the housing. The cylinder should slide out smoothly. If resistance is felt, verify the key is in ACC position and the release pin is fully depressed. Remove cylinder completely from column.
7. 7

   Inspect cylinder housing and clean
   With cylinder removed, inspect the housing bore for any debris, damage, or worn components. Clean the housing with compressed air or clean lint-free cloth. Check that the internal lock mechanism moves freely and springs return properly. Look for any broken or damaged clips in the housing.
8. 8

   Prepare new ignition lock cylinder
   Remove new cylinder from packaging and verify it matches the original part. Insert the new key into the cylinder and verify smooth operation through all positions (LOCK, ACC, ON, START). Ensure the key can be removed only in the LOCK position. Check that release pin mechanism functions properly.
9. 9

   Install new ignition lock cylinder
   Insert the new key into the new cylinder and turn to ACC position. Align the cylinder with the housing opening, ensuring any alignment tabs or grooves are properly oriented. Slide the cylinder straight into the housing until it stops. Turn key to LOCK position - you should hear/feel a click as the cylinder locks into place. Remove key and verify cylinder is fully seated and secure.
10. 10

    Test ignition cylinder operation
    Before reinstalling covers, insert key and test all ignition positions: LOCK, ACC, ON, and START (engine will not crank with battery disconnected). Verify key turns smoothly through all positions and returns properly. Confirm key can only be removed in LOCK position. Test that steering wheel lock engages when key is removed and disengages when key is turned to ACC.
11. 11

    Reinstall upper steering column cover
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column assembly. Reconnect any electrical connectors that were disconnected. Align the cover properly with the lower column and install all retaining screws. Hand-tighten screws first, then torque to specification in a cross pattern to ensure even seating.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall lower steering column cover
    Position the lower cover under the steering column, ensuring all alignment tabs engage properly with the upper cover. Install the two retaining screws and torque to specification. Verify cover is secure and does not rattle or have gaps.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and initialize systems
    Reconnect the negative battery cable and tighten securely. Turn ignition to ON position (do not start engine yet) and verify all dashboard warning lights illuminate normally. Check for any abnormal warning lights or messages on the instrument cluster.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column cover screws are torqued to 11.0 Nm (8.0 lb-ft)
2. Verify no tools or parts were left in the steering column area
3. Confirm all electrical connectors on column covers are properly seated
4. Check that steering column covers are flush and properly aligned with no gaps

Verification

• With battery connected, test ignition cylinder through all positions: LOCK, ACC, ON, START
• Start the engine and verify normal operation - note that immobilizer programming may be required if security light remains on
• Verify key can only be removed in LOCK position
• Test steering wheel lock function - lock should engage when key is removed and release when key is turned to ACC
• Turn steering wheel lock to lock while engine is running to verify no interference with column covers
• Check that all dashboard warning lights extinguish normally after engine start (except for immobilizer light if programming is needed)
• Verify no rattles or loose covers when driving over bumps
• If immobilizer/security light stays on, vehicle will require key programming at dealer or qualified locksmith

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