This procedure covers the replacement of the starter solenoid on a 2018-2024 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine, requiring removal of the starter assembly for solenoid service or replacement.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Starter solenoid assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or Toyota part 28100-36060
• Starter mounting gasket (if equipped) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
4. Safely raise and support front of vehicle on jack stands
5. Remove engine splash shield fasteners and lower the shield for access
6. Locate starter motor on the lower rear section of the engine block, passenger side near the transmission bell housing

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Open the hood and locate the battery in the engine compartment. Using a 10mm socket, loosen and remove the negative (-) battery terminal clamp. Move the cable away from the battery post and secure it so it cannot accidentally contact the terminal. Wait 90 seconds for airbag system capacitor discharge.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Access starter motor location
   From underneath the vehicle, locate the starter motor mounted on the lower rear section of the engine block where it meets the transmission bell housing, on the passenger side. You may need to remove heat shields or plastic covers if equipped. Use a flashlight to identify the starter body, solenoid mounted on top, and electrical connections.
3. 3

   Disconnect starter electrical connections
   Identify the two electrical connections on the starter solenoid: the S terminal (small wire connector with push-on or bolt connection) and the B terminal (large battery cable with nut). First, disconnect the S terminal connector by pressing the release tab or removing the retaining nut. Then, using a 12mm socket, remove the nut securing the battery cable to the B terminal. Move both wires away from the starter.
   ⚠The B terminal is always live with battery voltage even with the key off. Ensure no metal tools contact this terminal and the engine block simultaneously.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove starter mounting bolts
   Locate the two or three mounting bolts securing the starter to the engine block and transmission bell housing. These are typically 14mm bolts. Using a 14mm socket with extension, remove all starter mounting bolts. Keep track of any shims, spacers, or ground straps attached to the mounting points. Support the starter weight as you remove the final bolt.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove starter assembly
   Carefully wiggle and pull the starter assembly away from the engine block. The starter nose may be positioned in a tight pilot hole in the bell housing, so some maneuvering may be required. Support the weight and lower the starter down and out from underneath the vehicle. Place it on a clean workbench.
6. 6

   Remove solenoid mounting hardware
   With the starter on the bench, identify the solenoid mounted on top of the starter motor body. The solenoid is typically secured by two or three bolts or screws. Using appropriate sockets (typically 10mm), remove the solenoid mounting fasteners. Note the orientation and any alignment pins or tabs.
   ℹ️Some solenoid designs have internal springs that may push the solenoid outward when fasteners are loosened. Maintain control of the assembly.
   Torque spec

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

   Disconnect internal solenoid connections
   Carefully separate the solenoid from the starter motor body. Disconnect the internal electrical connection between the solenoid plunger and the starter motor contacts. This typically involves removing a small nut or screw securing the solenoid wire to the motor terminal. Note the exact routing and connection point for reassembly.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove old solenoid
   Once all connections and mounting hardware are removed, lift the old solenoid away from the starter motor body. Inspect the mating surfaces on the starter body for corrosion, debris, or damage. Clean the mounting surface with a wire brush if needed.
9. 9

   Install new solenoid
   Position the new solenoid onto the starter motor body, aligning any locating pins or tabs. Ensure the internal plunger mechanism engages properly with the starter drive mechanism. Reconnect the internal electrical connection from the solenoid to the motor terminal, securing with the appropriate screw or nut.
   Torque spec

   Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Secure solenoid mounting bolts
    Install and hand-tighten the solenoid mounting bolts or screws. Using a torque wrench, tighten the mounting fasteners in a cross pattern to the specified torque. Verify the solenoid is seated flush against the starter body and the plunger moves freely.
    Torque spec

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

    Reinstall starter assembly
    From underneath the vehicle, lift the starter assembly into position. Align the starter nose with the pilot hole in the transmission bell housing. Install any shims, spacers, or ground straps that were removed. Hand-start all mounting bolts before tightening any of them.
12. 12

    Torque starter mounting bolts
    Using a torque wrench and 14mm socket, tighten the starter mounting bolts to specification in a cross pattern if multiple bolts are present. Ensure the starter is firmly seated against the engine block with no gaps or movement.
    Torque spec

    Mounting Bolts34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reconnect starter electrical connections
    Reconnect the battery cable to the B terminal on the solenoid. Install the retaining nut and torque to specification using a 12mm socket and torque wrench. Then reconnect the S terminal connector, ensuring it clicks or seats fully. Verify both connections are secure and wires are routed away from heat sources and moving parts.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
14. 14

    Reinstall underbody components
    Reinstall any heat shields, plastic covers, or the engine splash shield that were removed for access. Ensure all fasteners are secure. Lower the vehicle from jack stands.
15. 15

    Reconnect battery
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal to the battery post. Tighten the terminal clamp bolt to specification using a 10mm socket and torque wrench. Ensure the connection is clean and secure.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connections are secure and properly routed away from hot or moving components
2. Verify starter mounting bolts are torqued to specification and starter assembly is firmly seated
3. Confirm engine splash shield and any removed covers are reinstalled properly
4. Double-check that no tools or parts were left in the engine compartment or underneath the vehicle

Verification

• Turn the ignition key to the START position and verify the engine cranks normally without unusual noises
• Listen for a single solid click from the solenoid when the key is turned to START, followed by immediate cranking
• Verify the starter disengages properly when the key is released and the engine starts
• Check for any unusual grinding, clicking, or whirring sounds that would indicate improper installation
• Perform 3-5 start cycles to confirm consistent operation and proper solenoid engagement
• Inspect underneath the vehicle for any fluid leaks or loose components after test starts

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