Power Antenna Motor

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

Tools required

Parts

• Power antenna motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Antenna motor grommet (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and secure cable away from terminal
4. Wait 90 seconds for airbag system capacitors to discharge
5. Open trunk and remove right side trunk trim panel or access cover

Procedure

1. 1

   Access antenna motor compartment
   Remove 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.
2. 2

   Disconnect antenna motor electrical connector
   Locate 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.
3. 3

   Disconnect antenna mast cable
   The 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.
4. 4

   Remove antenna motor mounting bolts
   Remove 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 spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove power antenna motor assembly
   Carefully 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.
6. 6

   Install new power antenna motor
   Position 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.
7. 7

   Install and torque mounting bolts
   Install 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 spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Reconnect antenna mast cable
   Route 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.
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Plug the electrical connector onto the antenna motor until it clicks into place. Tug gently to verify it is fully seated and locked.
10. 10

    Reconnect battery and test
    Reconnect 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 spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reinstall trunk trim
    Once 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

1. Verify all mounting bolts are torqued to specification
2. Ensure antenna cable is routed properly without kinks or interference
3. Confirm electrical connector is fully seated and locked
4. 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

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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

Chasing one of these codes and not sure which part is guilty? Ask a master mechanic about YOUR car →

More procedures for this vehicle