electrical
Power Antenna Motor
for 2017 Toyota Corolla 1.8L I4 · FWD
Editorial review:Chris Hackleman — Master Technician · 20+ years · Jeff Moore — Master Lexus & Toyota Mechanic · 20+ years
Difficulty
Easy
Time
1.0 h
Tools
7
Steps
11
✓Expert-verified. Personally reviewed and approved by OLP's master technicians (Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — 20+ years each). Always follow the vehicle's factory service information and torque specs.
This procedure covers removal and replacement of the power antenna motor assembly on 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla models equipped with a power antenna system.
Warnings
⚠Disconnect battery negative terminal and wait 90 seconds before beginning work to prevent airbag deployment and electrical shorts
ℹ️The power antenna motor is located in the right rear quarter panel area, accessed from inside the trunk
Tools required
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
12mm socket and ratchetEssential
Extension setEssential
Trim panel removal tools
Torque wrenchEssential
Multimeter
Flashlight
Parts
- Power antenna motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Antenna motor grommet (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
- Turn ignition off and remove key
- Disconnect negative battery terminal and secure cable away from terminal
- Wait 90 seconds for airbag system capacitors to discharge
- Open trunk and remove right side trunk trim panel or access cover
Procedure
- 1Access antenna motor compartmentRemove the right rear trunk interior trim panel to access the antenna motor. On most models, this involves removing plastic push clips and pulling the trim panel away. Some models have a dedicated access panel secured with clips. Locate the power antenna motor assembly mounted to the body panel.
- 2Disconnect antenna motor electrical connectorLocate the electrical connector attached to the power antenna motor. Press the release tab and carefully pull the connector straight off the motor. Inspect the connector terminals for corrosion or damage.
- 3Disconnect antenna mast cableThe antenna mast cable connects to the top of the motor assembly. Carefully disconnect the antenna cable by releasing any retaining clips or tabs. Note the routing of the cable for reinstallation.
- 4Remove antenna motor mounting boltsRemove the mounting bolts securing the antenna motor assembly to the body panel. There are typically 3 bolts holding the motor bracket. Use a 10mm socket to remove these bolts. Support the motor assembly as you remove the final bolt.Torque specModule Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
- 5Remove power antenna motor assemblyCarefully pull the antenna motor assembly out through the access opening. The antenna mast will still be attached to the motor. Guide the assembly out carefully to avoid damaging the mast or surrounding trim. Inspect the rubber grommet where the antenna passes through the body for damage.
- 6Install new power antenna motorPosition the new antenna motor assembly in the mounting location. Ensure the rubber grommet is properly seated in the body panel opening. Align the mounting holes with the body panel. If the grommet was damaged, replace it before installing the motor.
- 7Install and torque mounting boltsInstall the antenna motor mounting bolts finger-tight first to ensure proper alignment. Then torque the mounting bolts to specification in a cross pattern to ensure even pressure on the mounting bracket.Torque specModule Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
- 8Reconnect antenna mast cableRoute the antenna cable as noted during removal and connect it to the motor assembly. Ensure the cable is properly seated and any retaining clips are engaged. The cable should not be kinked or stretched.
- 9Reconnect electrical connectorPlug the electrical connector onto the antenna motor until it clicks into place. Tug gently to verify it is fully seated and locked.
- 10Reconnect battery and testReconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to specification. Turn the ignition to the ACC or ON position and verify the antenna extends. Turn the ignition off and verify the antenna retracts fully. Listen for any unusual grinding or binding noises during operation.Torque specBattery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
- 11Reinstall trunk trimOnce antenna operation is confirmed, reinstall the right rear trunk trim panel or access cover. Ensure all clips are properly seated and the panel is secure.
Reassembly
- Verify all mounting bolts are torqued to specification
- Ensure antenna cable is routed properly without kinks or interference
- Confirm electrical connector is fully seated and locked
- Check that trunk trim panels are securely fastened with all clips engaged
Verification
- Turn ignition to ACC position and verify antenna extends smoothly and fully
- Turn ignition off and verify antenna retracts completely into the fender
- Test radio reception to ensure proper antenna function
- Inspect for any antenna mast wobble or play indicating loose mounting
- Check that no warning lights are illuminated on the dashboard