This procedure covers removal and replacement of the climate control module (HVAC control head) in the center dashboard of a 2018-2024 Toyota Camry with 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Climate control module (HVAC control head) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Trim panel retaining clips (if broken during removal) × 5 — Toyota 90467-10188 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key/fob from vehicle
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 3 minutes for airbag system to discharge
4. Allow interior to cool if vehicle was recently operated in direct sunlight (dashboard panels can become brittle when hot)
5. Gather all trim panel clips and organize removed fasteners to ensure proper reassembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower dashboard panel
   Using plastic trim tools, carefully pry out the lower dashboard panel below the steering column. Start at the bottom edge and work around the perimeter. Remove two Phillips screws behind the panel if present. Disconnect any electrical connectors for the hood release or diagnostic port, then set panel aside.
2. 2

   Remove center console trim bezel
   Insert trim tool at the bottom edge of the center console trim bezel (surrounding the shifter). Gently pry upward to release the clips along the bottom and sides. Lift the bezel up and over the shifter knob. Disconnect the electrical connectors for the heated seat switches, USB ports, and any other switches integrated into the bezel. Set bezel aside.
3. 3

   Remove climate control trim panel
   Using trim tools, carefully pry out the climate control trim panel that surrounds the radio and climate controls. Start at the bottom corners and work your way around the perimeter. This panel is held by 8-10 retaining clips. Pull the panel straight out approximately 2 inches. Disconnect any electrical connectors for hazard switch or other integrated controls before fully removing the panel.
4. 4

   Remove radio unit
   Locate and remove four 10mm bolts securing the radio unit to the dashboard framework. Carefully pull the radio unit forward approximately 4 inches. Disconnect the antenna cable, main electrical harness, and any auxiliary connections from the rear of the radio. Remove radio and set aside to access the climate control module behind it.
5. 5

   Remove climate control module mounting screws
   Locate the four screws securing the climate control module to the dashboard frame. Remove these screws using a Phillips screwdriver. Note the screw locations as they secure both the module and mounting bracket.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Disconnect climate control module
   Carefully pull the climate control module forward approximately 3 inches. Locate the main electrical connector on the rear of the module. Press the locking tab and disconnect the harness. If equipped with dual-zone automatic climate control, there may be a second connector—disconnect this as well. Remove the module from the dashboard.
7. 7

   Install new climate control module
   Connect the electrical harness(es) to the new climate control module, ensuring the locking tabs click into place firmly. Verify connections are secure by gently tugging on the connectors. Position the module into the dashboard opening, aligning the mounting holes with the bracket.
8. 8

   Secure climate control module
   Install the four mounting screws through the module into the dashboard bracket. Tighten screws in a cross pattern to ensure even seating of the module. Torque to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reinstall radio unit
   Reconnect all electrical connectors and antenna cable to the radio unit. Slide the radio back into the dashboard opening, aligning mounting holes. Install and tighten the four 10mm mounting bolts. Verify the radio is seated flush with the dashboard frame.
10. 10

    Reinstall trim panels
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the climate control trim panel (hazard switch, etc.). Align the panel with the dashboard opening and press firmly around the perimeter to seat all retaining clips. Reconnect connectors to the center console bezel (heated seats, USB ports) and press the bezel into place. Finally, reinstall the lower dashboard panel and secure with screws if applicable.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect negative battery terminal and tighten securely
2. Turn ignition to ON position and verify climate control module display illuminates
3. Test all climate control functions including fan speed, temperature adjustment, mode selection, and A/C compressor engagement
4. Verify all buttons and knobs respond correctly and display shows proper information
5. Re-initialize power window auto-up/down feature if necessary by fully lowering each window, then fully raising and holding the switch up for 2 seconds after window closes
6. Reset clock and radio presets as needed

Verification

• Start engine and verify climate control display functions properly with no error messages
• Test automatic climate control operation (if equipped) by setting to AUTO mode and confirming fan speed adjusts automatically
• Verify A/C compressor engages when A/C button is pressed (listen for compressor clutch engagement)
• Test all fan speeds (1-7 or variable) and confirm airflow matches selected speed
• Cycle through all mode selections (face, face/feet, feet, defrost) and verify air flows from correct vents
• Test temperature adjustment from coldest to hottest settings and confirm air temperature changes appropriately
• Check that recirculation mode engages and disengages properly
• Verify rear window defrost button activates rear defrost grid (test with multimeter on grid if uncertain)
• Inspect all reinstalled trim panels for proper fit, secure clips, and no gaps or misalignment

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