This procedure guides you through replacing the headlight switch assembly in a 2018-2024 Toyota Camry with a 2.5L I4 engine, requiring removal of lower dash trim panels and electrical connector disconnection.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Headlight switch assembly × 1 — Toyota OEM 84140-06180 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key/fob from vehicle
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and secure away from battery post
4. Wait 90 seconds for airbag system to discharge
5. Adjust steering wheel to lowest position for improved access
6. Gather all tools and new headlight switch before beginning

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower knee bolster panel
   Locate the lower dash panel beneath the steering column. Remove the two Phillips screws at the bottom edge of the panel. Use trim removal tools to carefully release the upper clips by pulling the panel toward you. Disconnect any electrical connectors for courtesy lights if equipped, then remove the panel completely.
2. 2

   Remove steering column lower cover
   With the knee bolster removed, locate the two halves of the steering column cover. Remove the Phillips screws securing the lower steering column cover (typically 2-3 screws on the underside). Separate the lower cover from the upper cover by unclipping the side tabs and remove the lower cover.
3. 3

   Access headlight switch assembly
   Identify the headlight switch module on the left side of the steering column. The switch is integrated into the turn signal/wiper control stalk housing. You will see the electrical connector on the back of the switch assembly behind the steering column.
4. 4

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the main electrical connector at the rear of the headlight switch assembly. Press the locking tab on the connector while pulling it straight back to disconnect. Do not pull on the wires themselves. If space is tight, you may need to reach from below or above the steering column for better access.
5. 5

   Remove switch mounting screws
   Locate the two mounting screws securing the headlight switch assembly to the steering column bracket. These are typically Phillips head screws. Remove both screws completely and retain them for reinstallation. Note the position and orientation of any bracket or spacer components.
   Torque spec

   Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove headlight switch assembly
   With the mounting screws removed and connector disconnected, carefully pull the headlight switch assembly away from the steering column. The switch should slide out of its mounting bracket. Inspect the mounting area for any debris or damage before installing the new switch.
7. 7

   Install new headlight switch
   Position the new headlight switch assembly into the mounting bracket on the steering column, ensuring proper alignment with the mounting screw holes. Verify that any alignment pins or tabs are properly seated. Install both mounting screws finger-tight first, then torque to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Align the electrical connector with the headlight switch assembly and push firmly until you hear and feel the locking tab click into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully locked. Ensure no wires are pinched between components.
9. 9

   Reinstall steering column cover
   Position the lower steering column cover back onto the column, aligning the side tabs with the upper cover. Press the tabs into place until they click. Install the Phillips screws that secure the lower cover and tighten snugly but do not overtighten plastic components.
10. 10

    Reinstall knee bolster panel
    Reconnect any courtesy light electrical connectors if equipped. Position the knee bolster panel and align the upper clips with their receptacles. Press firmly to engage all clips. Install the two lower Phillips screws and tighten securely.
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and initialize systems
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque the terminal bolt to specification. Turn the ignition to ON position without starting the engine. Cycle all headlight switch positions to verify proper operation before starting the vehicle.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all trim panels are securely fastened and clips are fully engaged
2. Ensure no gaps exist between steering column covers
3. Confirm all screws are present and properly tightened
4. Check that no tools or parts were left in the work area

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and verify dash illumination is normal
• Test headlight switch through all positions: OFF, parking lights, low beams, high beams
• Verify automatic headlight function works if equipped
• Test daytime running lights operate correctly
• Confirm instrument cluster headlight indicator responds to switch positions
• Check that all other steering column controls (turn signals, wipers) still function normally
• Verify no warning lights related to lighting system appear on dash
• Test headlight switch at night to confirm proper beam pattern and intensity

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