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2021 TOYOTA CAMRY

2.5L I4FWDAUTOMATICgas
1 active safety recall on this vehicle — view recalls
Repairs435Labor595Torque4685Fluid6DTC940Battery1Maintenance0Recalls1
electrical

Headlight Assembly

for 2021 Toyota Camry 2.5L I4 · FWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
1.0 h
Tools
5
Steps
10

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the headlight assembly on a 2018-2024 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine, including disconnecting electrical connectors and proper torque specifications.

Warnings

Halogen bulbs contain pressurized gas and can shatter if dropped or struck. Handle the headlight assembly carefully.
ℹ️Do not touch halogen bulb glass with bare hands. Oil from skin causes hot spots and premature failure.
Ensure headlights are off and cool before beginning work to prevent burns.

Tools required

10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Extension bar (6-inch)Essential
Flathead screwdriver (trim tool)
Torque wrench (5-15 Nm range)Essential
Flashlight or work light

Parts

  • Headlight assembly (left or right as needed) × 1 — Use OEM Toyota part number for your specific year
  • Push clips (if damaged during removal) × 2 — Toyota 90467-07164 or equivalent

Preparation

  1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
  2. Turn off headlights and allow to cool for at least 10 minutes if recently operated
  3. Open hood and secure with prop rod
  4. Gather all tools and replacement parts before beginning

Procedure

  1. 1
    Access the headlight assembly
    Locate the headlight assembly from under the hood. The headlight is secured by three bolts accessible from the engine bay. Identify the top mounting bolt near the radiator support and the two lower bolts near the fender liner area.
  2. 2
    Disconnect the main electrical connector
    Locate the main wiring harness connector on the rear of the headlight assembly. Press the release tab on the connector and pull straight back to disconnect. If the vehicle has daytime running lights or adaptive headlights, there may be additional connectors to disconnect. Label them if necessary for reinstallation.
  3. 3
    Remove the upper mounting bolt
    Using a 10mm socket with extension, remove the upper headlight mounting bolt located at the top of the assembly near the hood latch area. Keep this bolt in a safe location as it will be reused.
  4. 4
    Remove the lower mounting bolts
    Locate and remove the two lower mounting bolts securing the headlight assembly. These are accessible from above, near the fender and inner wheel well area. Use a 10mm socket with extension for better access. Retain these bolts for reinstallation.
  5. 5
    Release the headlight assembly
    With all three bolts removed, gently pull the headlight assembly forward and away from the vehicle. The assembly has alignment pins that fit into grommets in the body. Rock the assembly gently side-to-side while pulling forward if it resists. Be careful not to scratch the bumper or fender.
  6. 6
    Inspect mounting points and alignment pins
    Before installing the new headlight, inspect the mounting holes and alignment pin grommets on the vehicle body for damage or debris. Clean any dirt or corrosion from the mounting surfaces. Check that the alignment pins on the new headlight assembly are intact and undamaged.
  7. 7
    Position the new headlight assembly
    Carefully align the new headlight assembly with the mounting points on the vehicle. Guide the alignment pins into their grommets first, then push the assembly rearward until it seats flush against the body. Ensure the headlight lens aligns properly with the bumper cover opening before proceeding.
  8. 8
    Install and torque mounting bolts
    Thread all three mounting bolts (upper and two lower) by hand first to ensure proper thread engagement. Once all bolts are started, torque them in sequence: upper bolt first, then the two lower bolts. This ensures even seating of the assembly.
    Torque spec
    Headlight Assembly Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
  9. 9
    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Reconnect the main wiring harness connector to the rear of the headlight assembly. Push firmly until you hear and feel a positive click, indicating the locking tab has engaged. If multiple connectors were removed, reconnect each one, ensuring they are fully seated and locked.
  10. 10
    Check headlight alignment and gaps
    Verify that the headlight assembly sits flush with the surrounding body panels and that the gaps between the headlight, fender, and bumper cover are even on both sides. The assembly should not protrude or sit recessed compared to the opposite side. Make minor adjustments if necessary before final verification.

Reassembly

  1. Double-check that all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
  2. Verify all three mounting bolts are properly torqued to 10.0 Nm (7.0 lb-ft)
  3. Ensure the headlight assembly is flush with surrounding body panels with even gaps

Verification

  • Start the vehicle and verify low beam headlights function properly on both sides
  • Test high beam operation and verify both headlights illuminate
  • Check turn signal operation if integrated into the headlight assembly
  • Verify daytime running lights function if equipped
  • Perform a visual inspection at night or in a dark area to check for light leaks around the assembly
  • Check headlight aim and adjust if necessary using the adjustment screws on the rear of the assembly

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