This procedure covers removal and replacement of the ignition lock cylinder assembly on a 2018-2024 Toyota Camry with 2.5L I4 engine, including steering column cover removal and electrical connector handling.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition lock cylinder assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering column cover clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait minimum 90 seconds
4. Adjust steering column to lowest and fully extended position for best access
5. Remove knee airbag panel if equipped (two bolts behind lower dash panel)

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate and remove the Phillips screws securing the lower steering column cover (typically 2-3 screws on underside). Gently pull cover downward and away from column, releasing the retaining clips. Set cover and screws aside in organized manner.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With lower cover removed, locate the screws securing the upper column cover (usually 2 screws accessible from bottom). Remove screws, then carefully separate upper cover by releasing clips at the seam between upper and lower halves. Lift upper cover up and over the steering column.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Disconnect ignition switch electrical connectors
   Locate the main ignition switch electrical connector on the right side of the steering column. Press the locking tab and carefully disconnect the connector. If equipped with secondary connector for key reminder circuit, disconnect it as well. Note connector orientation for reinstallation.
   ⚠Do not pull on wires; use connector housing only to prevent wire damage
4. 4

   Remove ignition switch mounting bracket
   Locate the two bracket bolts securing the ignition switch assembly to the steering column (one on each side). Using a 10mm socket, remove both bolts while supporting the ignition switch assembly. Do not allow assembly to hang by wiring.
   Torque spec

   Bracket Bolts20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Position key and locate cylinder release pin
   Insert the original key into the ignition lock cylinder and turn to ACC position (first position). Locate the small release pin hole on the bottom or side of the cylinder housing. This hole provides access to the internal release mechanism.
   ℹ️If original key is lost, cylinder cannot be released using standard method and steering column may require dealer service
6. 6

   Release and remove old lock cylinder
   While holding key in ACC position, insert a small punch or straightened paperclip into the release pin hole and press firmly. You should feel a slight click. While maintaining pressure on the release pin, pull the key and cylinder assembly straight out of the housing. If cylinder does not release, verify key is in ACC position and release pin is fully depressed.
   ⚠Apply steady even pressure; forcing the cylinder can damage the steering column lock mechanism
7. 7

   Inspect cylinder housing and clean contacts
   With cylinder removed, inspect the housing for debris, worn components, or damage. Use electrical contact cleaner to clean the electrical contacts inside the housing if present. Check that the lock mechanism moves freely and the housing is not cracked.
8. 8

   Prepare new lock cylinder
   Remove new lock cylinder from packaging. Insert new key and verify it turns smoothly through all positions (LOCK, ACC, ON, START). Ensure cylinder includes all necessary components including retention spring and electrical contacts. Set cylinder to ACC position for installation.
9. 9

   Install new lock cylinder
   With new cylinder key in ACC position, align the cylinder with the housing opening. Ensure any alignment tabs or grooves are properly oriented. Push cylinder straight into housing until you hear and feel a positive click indicating the retention mechanism has engaged. Gently attempt to pull cylinder out to verify it is locked in place.
   ℹ️Cylinder must be in ACC position during installation or it will not insert properly
10. 10

    Test lock cylinder operation
    Before reinstalling mounting bracket, test the new cylinder through all positions: ACC, ON, START, and back to LOCK. Verify key can be removed only in LOCK position and cylinder operates smoothly without binding. Test that steering wheel lock engages in LOCK position.
11. 11

    Reinstall ignition switch mounting bracket
    Position the ignition switch assembly back onto the steering column. Install both bracket bolts finger-tight first to ensure proper alignment, then torque to specification using a torque wrench. Verify switch assembly is secure and properly seated against column.
    Torque spec

    Bracket Bolts20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Reconnect the main ignition switch electrical connector, ensuring it clicks into place and locking tab engages. Reconnect any secondary connectors in reverse order of removal. Gently tug on connectors to verify they are fully seated.
13. 13

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position upper steering column cover over column, ensuring all internal clips are properly aligned. Install and torque cover screws to specification. Install lower cover, pressing firmly to engage all retaining clips, then install and torque lower cover screws to specification.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
14. 14

    Reconnect battery and test system
    Reconnect negative battery terminal. Turn key to ON position (do not start engine) and verify all dash warning lights illuminate normally. Check that accessories function in ACC and ON positions. Start engine and verify proper operation.

Reassembly

1. All steering column covers must be fully seated with no gaps to prevent rattles
2. Verify all electrical connectors are fully engaged and locked
3. Confirm all trim clips are secured and no loose fasteners remain in steering column area
4. Test steering wheel lock function by turning wheel with key in LOCK position

Verification

• Key turns smoothly through all positions without binding or excessive resistance
• Key can only be removed in LOCK position
• Steering wheel locks when key is in LOCK position and unlocks in ACC or higher
• Engine starts normally and all electrical accessories function properly
• No warning lights remain illuminated on dash after startup
• Steering column covers are secure with no rattles when driving
• All ignition positions function correctly: LOCK, ACC, ON, and START

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