electrical

Wiper Switch

for 2021 Toyota Camry 2.5L I4 · FWD

Difficulty

Easy

Time

1.0 h

Tools

Steps

This procedure replaces the wiper switch assembly on the steering column of a 2018-2024 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

⚠Disconnecting the battery will reset radio presets and clock. Have radio security code ready if applicable.

⚠Do not force trim panels or clips as they are prone to breaking. Use proper trim removal tools.

ℹ️The airbag system will remain disabled for approximately 90 seconds after battery disconnection. Wait this period before working near the steering column.

Tools required

Phillips screwdriverEssential

Flathead screwdriver or trim removal toolEssential

10mm socket and ratchetEssential

Torque wrench (3-15 Nm range)Essential

Work light or flashlight

Parts

Wiper switch assembly × 1 — 84140-06180 or equivalent OEM

Preparation

Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
Allow vehicle to sit for at least 90 seconds after battery disconnection to allow airbag system capacitors to discharge
Ensure steering wheel is in straight-ahead position

Procedure

1
Disconnect battery negative terminal
Open hood and locate the battery. Using a 10mm wrench or socket, loosen the negative terminal bolt and remove the cable from the battery post. Secure the cable away from the terminal to prevent accidental reconnection. Wait 90 seconds minimum before proceeding.
⚠Always disconnect negative terminal first to prevent short circuits
Torque spec
Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2
Remove lower steering column covers
Locate the two halves of the plastic steering column cover. Remove the Phillips screws securing the lower cover (typically 2-3 screws on the underside). Carefully separate the lower cover from the upper cover by releasing the retaining clips. Pull the lower cover away from the column and set aside.
Torque spec
Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
3
Remove upper steering column cover
With the lower cover removed, locate and remove the screws securing the upper steering column cover. Gently lift the upper cover upward and away from the steering column, being careful not to snag any wiring. Set aside in a safe location.
Torque spec
Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
4
Access wiper switch connector
With the column covers removed, locate the wiper switch on the right side of the steering column (driver's perspective). Identify the electrical connector attached to the back of the switch assembly. The connector will have a locking tab or clip.
5
Disconnect wiper switch electrical connector
Press the locking tab on the electrical connector while gently pulling the connector away from the wiper switch. If the connector is tight, gently wiggle it side to side while pulling. Do not pull on the wires themselves.
⚠Do not force the connector or pull on wires. Damage to the wiring harness can occur if excessive force is used
6
Remove wiper switch mounting screws
Locate the mounting screws securing the wiper switch assembly to the steering column bracket (typically 2 screws). Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove these screws completely. Keep screws in a safe place for reinstallation.
Torque spec
Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
7
Remove wiper switch assembly
With the mounting screws removed and connector disconnected, carefully slide the wiper switch assembly away from the steering column. The switch may have alignment tabs that require slight rotation or angling to remove. Note the orientation of the switch for installation of the new unit.
8
Install new wiper switch assembly
Position the new wiper switch assembly in the same orientation as the original. Align the mounting holes and any alignment tabs with the steering column bracket. Slide the switch into position until it seats fully against the bracket.
9
Install wiper switch mounting screws
Insert the mounting screws through the switch bracket and thread them into the steering column bracket. Tighten the screws using a torque wrench to the specified torque. Ensure the switch is seated properly and does not have excessive play.
Torque spec
Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
10
Reconnect electrical connector
Align the electrical connector with the socket on the wiper switch. Push the connector firmly into place until you hear or feel a distinct click, indicating the locking tab has engaged. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully locked.
11
Reinstall upper steering column cover
Position the upper steering column cover over the column, ensuring no wires are pinched or trapped. Align the mounting holes and install the screws. Tighten screws to specification using a torque wrench.
Torque spec
Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
12
Reinstall lower steering column cover
Align the lower steering column cover with the upper cover and steering column. Engage the retaining clips between the upper and lower covers. Install the mounting screws and tighten to specification.
Torque spec
Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
13
Reconnect battery negative terminal
Place the negative battery cable onto the negative battery post. Install the terminal bolt and tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Ensure the connection is secure but do not overtighten.
⚠Do not overtighten battery terminal bolts as this can damage the battery post
Torque spec
Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

Ensure all steering column covers are properly seated with no gaps or misalignment
Verify no wiring is pinched or visible between cover panels
Reset clock and radio presets as needed

Verification

Turn ignition to ON position (engine does not need to be running)
Test wiper switch in all positions: intermittent (all speed settings), low speed, high speed, and single wipe
Verify wipers operate correctly in each mode and return to park position when switched off
Test washer function by activating the wiper switch washer button
Ensure wiper switch returns to center position when released
Check for any warning lights on the instrument cluster related to wiper system
Verify no abnormal noises from the steering column area