This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the upper steering shaft on a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine, which connects the steering wheel to the lower steering shaft and intermediate shaft.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Upper steering shaft assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering shaft roll pin or bolt (verify for your model year) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake firmly
2. Turn steering wheel to center position with wheels straight ahead
3. Turn ignition off and remove key
4. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait minimum 90 seconds for airbag system to discharge
5. Remove driver's knee airbag panel or lower dash trim to access steering column
6. Lock steering wheel in center position using steering wheel lock or tape to prevent rotation

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column covers
   Remove the screws securing the upper and lower steering column covers. Typically 2-3 screws hold each cover. Carefully separate the covers and remove them from the column to expose the steering shaft coupling.
   Torque spec

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

   Mark alignment positions
   Using a white paint marker, make clear alignment marks across the upper steering shaft and intermediate shaft coupling where they join. Mark the steering wheel position relative to the column as well. These marks are critical for proper reassembly and steering wheel centering.
3. 3

   Disconnect intermediate shaft coupling
   Locate the pinch bolt or roll pin connecting the upper steering shaft to the intermediate shaft below the dash. Apply penetrating lubricant if necessary. Remove the pinch bolt (typically 14mm) or carefully drive out the roll pin using a punch. Support the intermediate shaft to prevent it from dropping.
4. 4

   Remove upper column mounting bolts
   Locate the mounting bolts securing the upper steering column to the dash support bracket. There are typically 2-4 bolts holding the column assembly. Remove these bolts while supporting the column to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Disconnect electrical connectors
   Disconnect all electrical connectors from the steering column including the clockspring connector, ignition switch, column switches, and any other wiring harnesses. Note the routing and position of each connector for reassembly.
6. 6

   Remove upper steering shaft assembly
   Carefully lower and slide the upper steering column assembly down and out from under the dash. Be careful not to damage the clockspring or any wiring. The shaft should separate from the intermediate shaft splines once the coupling is disconnected.
7. 7

   Inspect and clean mating surfaces
   Inspect the intermediate shaft splines and coupling for wear, damage, or corrosion. Use a wire brush to clean the splines on the intermediate shaft. Check that the new upper steering shaft splines are clean and undamaged. Verify the clockspring is centered and has not rotated.
8. 8

   Install new upper steering shaft
   Position the new upper steering shaft assembly into place under the dash. Align the splines with the intermediate shaft, ensuring the alignment marks line up (or that the shaft is in the correct rotational position if using a new shaft). Carefully slide the shaft onto the intermediate shaft splines.
9. 9

   Reinstall column mounting bolts
   Raise the steering column into position against the dash bracket. Install the mounting bolts and tighten to specification. Ensure the column is properly seated before final torquing.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Secure intermediate shaft coupling
    Verify alignment marks are properly aligned between upper and intermediate shafts. Install the new pinch bolt or roll pin through the coupling. If using a bolt, torque to manufacturer specification. If using a roll pin, drive it in completely until flush on both sides.
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the steering column in their original positions. Ensure each connector clicks securely into place and verify the clockspring connector is properly seated.
12. 12

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the lower and upper steering column covers back onto the column. Align the covers properly and install all screws, tightening to specification.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reinstall lower dash trim panels and knee airbag panel removed during preparation
2. Reconnect the battery negative terminal
3. Turn ignition to ON position (do not start) and verify no airbag warning lights remain illuminated after system check completes
4. Verify all steering column switches and controls function properly

Verification

• Start the engine and verify steering operates smoothly with no binding or unusual noises
• Turn steering wheel lock-to-lock while stationary and verify smooth operation throughout full range
• Verify steering wheel is centered when wheels are pointing straight ahead
• Check that all turn signal, wiper, and cruise control functions operate correctly from column-mounted switches
• Test drive vehicle at low speed and verify steering response is normal with no play or looseness
• Verify no airbag or steering-related warning lights are illuminated on the instrument cluster

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