This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the headlight switch assembly on a 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla with a 1.8L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Headlight switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure ignition is off with key removed
2. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 3 minutes for airbag system capacitors to discharge
3. Set steering wheel to straight-ahead position for easier access to lower dash panels

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the two screws on the underside of the lower steering column cover. Remove both screws using a Phillips screwdriver. Gently pull the lower cover down and away from the column to release the clips. Set cover aside.
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the upper cover attachment points. Release the retaining clips by gently prying with a trim tool at the rear edge. Tilt the upper cover upward and remove it from the steering column. Set aside with lower cover.
3. 3

   Access headlight switch mounting area
   Look to the left side of the steering column at the dash assembly. The headlight switch is mounted in a plastic housing module. You should now have clear visibility of the switch body and its electrical connector on the rear.
4. 4

   Disconnect headlight switch electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the rear of the headlight switch. Press down on the locking tab while pulling the connector straight back away from the switch. You may need to use a small flathead screwdriver to assist with releasing the locking tab. Do not force the connector.
5. 5

   Remove headlight switch retaining screws
   Locate the two mounting screws securing the headlight switch to the dash housing. These are typically positioned above and below the switch body. Remove both screws using a Phillips screwdriver and retain them for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove headlight switch from dash
   With screws removed and connector disconnected, carefully pull the headlight switch assembly straight out from the dash housing. The switch should slide out smoothly once all fasteners are removed. If resistance is felt, verify all mounting points are released.
7. 7

   Install new headlight switch
   Take the new headlight switch assembly and align it with the mounting holes in the dash housing. Slide the switch into position until it seats flush with the surrounding trim. Ensure proper orientation with the control knob facing outward.
8. 8

   Secure headlight switch with mounting screws
   Install the two mounting screws through the switch body into the dash housing. Tighten screws to specification using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten as this may crack the plastic housing.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Align the electrical connector with the rear of the headlight switch. Push the connector firmly onto the switch terminals until you hear and feel the locking tab click into place. Verify the connection is secure by gently tugging on the connector.
10. 10

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column and press down until all clips engage. Then align the lower cover and press upward until clips engage. Install the two lower cover screws and tighten to specification.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and test
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and tighten the terminal bolt to specification. Turn the ignition to the ON position without starting the engine. Test all headlight switch positions including off, parking lights, low beams, high beams, and auto mode if equipped.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column covers are securely clipped and screws are properly torqued
2. Verify headlight switch operates smoothly through all positions without binding
3. Check that no warning lights remain illuminated on the instrument cluster after reconnecting battery

Verification

• Test headlight switch in all positions: OFF, parking lights, low beams, high beams, and AUTO (if equipped)
• Verify dash illumination control works properly when rotating the switch knob
• Confirm turn signal stalk and other steering column controls still operate normally
• Check that no new warning lights appear on the instrument cluster
• Test that daytime running lights function correctly in AUTO mode (if equipped)

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