This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the upper steering shaft on a 2018-2024 Toyota Camry with 2.5L I4 engine, requiring access to the steering column coupling beneath the dashboard.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Upper steering shaft assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering shaft coupling bolt × 1 — Use OEM specification (typically included with shaft)

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Turn steering wheel to center position and verify wheels are straight
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 90 seconds minimum
4. Remove driver side lower dashboard trim panel and knee bolster for access to steering column
5. Remove steering column covers (upper and lower) by removing cover screws

Procedure

1. 1

   Mark steering shaft alignment
   With the steering wheel centered, use a white paint marker to make alignment marks across the upper steering shaft and lower intermediate shaft at the coupling. Mark the coupling bolt position as well. These marks are critical for proper reassembly and steering angle sensor calibration.
2. 2

   Remove steering column covers
   Remove the upper and lower steering column covers by removing all cover screws. Set covers and screws aside in a clean area. Note the location of any trim clips for reassembly.
   Torque spec

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

   Access steering shaft coupling
   Locate the steering shaft coupling beneath the dashboard where the upper shaft connects to the intermediate shaft. You may need to adjust your seating position or use a flashlight to clearly see the coupling bolt. Ensure you have adequate working room.
4. 4

   Remove coupling bolt
   Using a 14mm socket with extension, loosen and remove the coupling bolt that connects the upper steering shaft to the intermediate shaft. The bolt may be accessed from the side or bottom depending on your position. Support the shaft to prevent it from dropping when the bolt is removed.
   ⚠Do not allow the steering wheel to rotate once the shaft is disconnected. Use the seatbelt or tape to secure the wheel in the centered position.
   Torque spec

   Coupling Bolt34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Separate shaft coupling
   Carefully pull the upper shaft away from the lower intermediate shaft splines. You may need to gently twist while pulling to separate the splined connection. Note the engagement depth for reassembly.
6. 6

   Remove upper shaft mounting bolts
   Locate and remove the mounting bolts that secure the upper steering shaft assembly to the steering column bracket. There are typically 2-3 bolts. Use a 12mm socket and support the shaft assembly as you remove the final bolt.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove upper steering shaft
   Carefully maneuver the upper steering shaft assembly out from the steering column area. It may require angling and rotating to clear the dashboard structure. Take note of the routing and orientation for installation of the new shaft.
8. 8

   Prepare new upper steering shaft
   Unpack the new upper steering shaft and verify it matches the removed part. Check that the splines are clean and undamaged. If the coupling bolt is not included with the new shaft, ensure you have a new bolt ready for installation.
9. 9

   Install new upper shaft
   Carefully maneuver the new upper steering shaft into position, reversing the removal process. Align the mounting holes with the steering column bracket. Install the mounting bolts finger-tight but do not fully tighten yet.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Align and connect shaft coupling
    Align the splines of the upper shaft with the lower intermediate shaft, ensuring your alignment marks are properly positioned. Slide the shafts together, verifying proper engagement depth. The coupling should be fully seated before installing the bolt.
    ⚠Verify alignment marks match exactly. Misalignment will cause steering problems and sensor errors.
11. 11

    Install and torque coupling bolt
    Insert the new coupling bolt through the coupling, ensuring it passes through both shaft alignments holes. Start the bolt by hand, then use a torque wrench to tighten to specification. This is a critical safety fastener.
    Torque spec

    Coupling Bolt34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Torque mounting bolts
    Using a torque wrench, tighten all upper steering shaft mounting bolts to specification in a cross pattern if multiple bolts are present. Verify the shaft assembly is secure with no movement.
    Torque spec

    Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Reinstall the lower and upper steering column covers, ensuring all alignment tabs are properly seated. Install and torque all cover screws to specification.
    Torque spec

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

    Reinstall dashboard trim
    Reinstall the knee bolster and lower dashboard trim panels, ensuring all clips and fasteners are properly secured. Verify no gaps or misalignment in trim pieces.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect negative battery terminal
2. Turn ignition to ON position (do not start engine) and verify no warning lights related to steering or airbag system remain illuminated after initial bulb check
3. Start engine and turn steering wheel slowly lock-to-lock to verify smooth operation with no binding or unusual noises
4. If steering angle sensor warning appears, perform steering angle sensor calibration according to manufacturer procedure using scan tool

Verification

• With engine running, verify electric power steering operates normally with no warning lights
• Test drive vehicle at low speed in safe area, verifying steering responds properly and wheel is centered when driving straight
• Verify no abnormal noises, binding, or vibration in steering operation
• Check that all dashboard trim panels are secure with no rattles
• Scan for diagnostic trouble codes related to steering angle sensor or EPS system and clear/diagnose as needed

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