Power Antenna Motor

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the power antenna motor assembly on a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry with a 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power antenna motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Trunk liner clips (if broken) × 4 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Open trunk and ensure adequate lighting
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and secure cable away from battery post
4. Allow 3 minutes for airbag system capacitor discharge

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove trunk side trim panel
   Locate the right side trunk liner panel. Use trim removal tools to carefully pry out the retaining clips starting from the bottom edge. Remove the panel completely to access the antenna motor area. Set aside clips that remain intact for reinstallation.
2. 2

   Disconnect antenna motor electrical connector
   Locate the antenna motor electrical connector behind the trunk liner. Press the locking tab and pull the connector straight off the motor. Inspect connector terminals for corrosion or damage.
3. 3

   Remove antenna mast drain tube
   Disconnect the rubber drain tube from the base of the antenna motor housing. This tube prevents water from entering the trunk. Note its orientation for proper reinstallation.
4. 4

   Remove antenna motor mounting bolts
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the three mounting bolts securing the antenna motor assembly to the body. Support the motor assembly with one hand while removing the final bolt to prevent it from dropping.
   ℹ️The mounting location uses 27.0 Nm (20.0 lb-ft) specification bolts
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove antenna motor assembly
   Carefully lower the antenna motor assembly down and maneuver it out through the trunk opening. The antenna mast will remain attached to the motor. Guide the assembly carefully to avoid snagging wiring or trim.
6. 6

   Install new antenna motor assembly
   Position the new antenna motor assembly into the mounting location, ensuring the drain tube grommet seats properly in the body opening. Align the three mounting bolt holes with the body mounting points.
7. 7

   Secure antenna motor mounting bolts
   Install the three mounting bolts hand-tight, then torque to specification using a torque wrench in a crossing pattern to ensure even seating of the motor base against the body.
   ⚠Proper torque is critical to prevent water leaks and motor vibration - use 27.0 Nm (20.0 lb-ft)
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Reconnect drain tube and electrical connector
   Attach the drain tube to the base of the antenna motor housing, ensuring it is fully seated. Connect the electrical connector to the motor until the locking tab clicks into place. Tug gently to verify secure connection.
9. 9

   Reconnect battery and test operation
   Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to specification. Turn the ignition to ON position and turn radio on/off to cycle the antenna. Verify smooth extension and retraction without binding or unusual noise.
   ⚠Do not overtighten battery terminal - use exactly 6.0 Nm (4.0 lb-ft)
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reinstall trunk side trim panel
    Position the trunk liner panel and press firmly to engage all retaining clips. Ensure panel is flush and all clips are fully seated. Replace any broken clips as needed.

Reassembly

1. Verify all mounting bolts are torqued to specification
2. Ensure drain tube is properly connected to prevent water intrusion
3. Confirm trunk liner panel is securely fastened with no loose clips

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON and radio ON - antenna should extend fully and smoothly
• Turn radio OFF - antenna should retract fully into housing
• Check for water leaks around antenna base after next car wash
• Verify no unusual grinding or clicking noises during antenna operation
• Confirm trunk liner panel is secure with no rattles

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