Sunroof Motor

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

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Sunroof motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Headliner retaining clips (if damaged) × 5 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Ensure sunroof is completely closed and not in tilt position
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 3 minutes for airbag system capacitor discharge
4. Protect instrument cluster and center console with towels to prevent scratches from headliner contact

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove overhead console assembly
   Using a trim removal tool, carefully pry down the front edge of the overhead console near the map lights. Release the retaining clips on both sides and disconnect the electrical connectors for map lights, sunroof switch, and any other accessories. Lower the console assembly and set aside.
2. 2

   Remove sunroof switch assembly
   If not already disconnected, release the sunroof switch electrical connector. Remove the switch module from the overhead console housing by pressing the side tabs and sliding it forward out of its mounting position.
3. 3

   Release headliner from windshield area
   Carefully pull down the front section of the headliner near the windshield to access the sunroof motor area. You may need to remove the A-pillar trim covers and sun visor assemblies for additional clearance. Support the headliner to prevent excessive stress on the material.
4. 4

   Access sunroof motor mounting area
   Locate the sunroof motor assembly mounted on the driver side of the sunroof track mechanism, accessible through the headliner opening. Use a shop light to identify the motor, its electrical connector, and mounting hardware. Mark cable routing with masking tape if needed for reinstallation reference.
5. 5

   Disconnect sunroof motor electrical connector
   Press the locking tab on the sunroof motor electrical connector and carefully pull it straight off the motor. Ensure no strain is placed on the wiring harness during removal.
6. 6

   Remove sunroof motor mounting bolts
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the mounting bolts securing the sunroof motor to the track assembly. There are typically 3 bolts holding the motor in place. Keep track of any spacers or washers present.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Detach motor from drive cable
   Carefully separate the sunroof motor from the drive cable mechanism. The motor may have a gear coupling that needs to be rotated slightly to disengage. Note the orientation of the motor for proper reinstallation of the new unit.
   ⚠Do not pull on the drive cables or force the motor off as this can damage the cable routing system
8. 8

   Remove old sunroof motor
   Extract the sunroof motor assembly through the headliner opening. Maneuver it carefully to avoid snagging wiring or damaging the headliner material.
9. 9

   Install new sunroof motor
   Position the new sunroof motor into the mounting location, ensuring proper orientation matches the original installation. Align the motor gear with the drive cable mechanism and gently engage the coupling by rotating if necessary.
10. 10

    Secure motor mounting bolts
    Install the mounting bolts with any original spacers or washers. Hand-tighten first to ensure proper alignment, then torque to specification using a torque wrench. Verify the motor sits flush and secure against the mounting surface.
    Torque spec

    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Connect the electrical connector to the sunroof motor until it clicks into place. Gently tug to verify the connection is secure and the locking tab is engaged.
12. 12

    Reinstall headliner and overhead console
    Carefully press the headliner back into position against the roof structure. Reinstall any A-pillar trim or sun visors removed earlier. Reconnect all electrical connectors to the overhead console and snap it back into place until all retaining clips engage.
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and initialize sunroof
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to specification. Turn the ignition to ON position. Press and hold the sunroof close button until the roof fully closes, then continue holding for 5 seconds to initialize the auto-close function. Repeat with the tilt function.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all headliner clips are properly seated to prevent rattles
2. Verify overhead console is flush with headliner and all functions (map lights, sunroof switch) operate correctly
3. Check that sunroof initialization completed successfully before returning vehicle to service

Verification

• Test sunroof operation in all modes: tilt up, tilt down, slide open, slide close
• Verify auto-close and one-touch open functions work properly
• Confirm sunroof stops at proper positions and does not bind or make unusual noises
• Check for proper sealing when closed - no light gaps visible around perimeter
• Ensure overhead console lights and sunroof switch illuminate correctly

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

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