Sunroof Motor

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the sunroof motor assembly on a 2018-2024 Toyota Camry with 2.5L I4 engine, requiring headliner access and electrical disconnection.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Sunroof motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM Toyota part for proper fit
• Trim panel clips (if damaged) × 1 — Replace any broken clips during removal

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Close sunroof completely if possible using manual override if motor is non-functional
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait at least 3 minutes before proceeding
4. Remove front map lights and sun visor assemblies for headliner access
5. Mark or photograph trim panel orientation before removal for proper reinstallation

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery
   Disconnect the negative battery terminal using a 10mm wrench. Isolate the cable away from the terminal and wait at least 3 minutes for the airbag system to fully discharge before proceeding with interior work.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove overhead console trim
   Carefully remove the overhead console trim panel by releasing the clips using trim tools. Start at the rear edge and work forward. Disconnect the electrical connectors for map lights, sunroof switch, and any other integrated components. Set panel aside in a safe location.
3. 3

   Lower front headliner section
   Remove the sun visors and trim covers around the A-pillars. Carefully lower the front section of the headliner approximately 6-8 inches to access the sunroof motor assembly. Support the headliner with blocks or have an assistant hold it to prevent damage. Do not crease or bend the headliner material.
4. 4

   Locate sunroof motor assembly
   Identify the sunroof motor assembly mounted to the sunroof track mechanism near the front of the opening. The motor is typically located on the driver's side of the sunroof mechanism. Use a flashlight to clearly see the mounting bolts and electrical connector.
5. 5

   Disconnect sunroof motor electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector attached to the sunroof motor. Press the locking tab and carefully disconnect the connector. Inspect the connector for corrosion or damage. If connector screws are present, remove them first.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove motor mounting hardware
   Remove the mounting bolts securing the sunroof motor to the track assembly using a 10mm socket. There are typically 3-4 bolts holding the motor in place. Support the motor as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

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

   Detach motor from drive mechanism
   Carefully separate the sunroof motor from the drive cable or gear mechanism. Note the orientation and engagement position of the drive gear for proper installation of the new motor. The motor typically slides out after bolts are removed, but may require gentle rotation to disengage from the cable drive.
8. 8

   Install new sunroof motor
   Position the new sunroof motor to the drive mechanism, ensuring the drive gear properly engages with the cable drive or track gear in the same orientation as the original. Align the motor mounting holes with the track assembly brackets.
9. 9

   Secure motor mounting bolts
   Install and hand-tighten all mounting bolts first to ensure proper alignment. Once all bolts are started, torque them in a cross pattern to the specified value using a torque wrench. Verify the motor sits flush against the mounting surface.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Reconnect the electrical connector to the sunroof motor, ensuring it clicks securely into place. If connector screws were present, install and torque them to specification. Verify the connector lock is fully engaged.
    Torque spec

    Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and perform initial test
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to specification. Before reinstalling headliner and trim, turn the ignition to ON position and test sunroof operation through its full range of motion. Verify smooth operation in both tilt and slide modes. Listen for unusual noises indicating improper installation.
    ⚠Keep hands clear of sunroof panel during testing to avoid pinch points
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall headliner and trim panels
    Once proper operation is verified, carefully raise the headliner back into position. Reinstall A-pillar trim covers and sun visors. Reconnect all electrical connectors to the overhead console and secure the console trim panel by pressing firmly to engage all clips. Ensure all clips are fully seated and panel gaps are even.

Reassembly

1. Verify all electrical connectors in overhead console are properly seated before securing trim
2. Check that headliner is properly positioned and not sagging before installing trim panels
3. Replace any damaged trim clips to ensure proper panel retention
4. Verify sun visors and map lights function correctly after reassembly

Verification

• Test sunroof through complete open and close cycle multiple times to verify smooth operation
• Verify tilt function operates correctly without binding or unusual noise
• Test sunroof auto-close and one-touch functions if equipped
• Perform sunroof initialization procedure if vehicle requires it: fully open sunroof, hold button for 5 seconds, fully close, hold button for 5 seconds
• Check for proper sealing by inspecting weatherstrip contact around sunroof perimeter
• Verify no warning lights are present on instrument cluster related to sunroof system
• Confirm all interior trim panels are secure and properly aligned

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

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