Antenna

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the roof-mounted antenna assembly on a 2019-2024 Toyota RAV4 with the 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Roof antenna assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Antenna base gasket/seal × 1 — Usually included with antenna assembly

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and turn ignition off
2. Gather all tools and replacement parts before starting
3. Clean the roof area around the antenna base to prevent dirt from falling into the headliner

Procedure

1. 1

   Access interior overhead console
   From inside the vehicle, locate the overhead console between the front seats. Use trim removal tools to carefully pry down the rear edge of the console cover to access the headliner area above. On some models, you may need to remove the sunglasses holder by pressing the release tabs.
2. 2

   Lower headliner section
   Gently pull down the headliner material in the center section near where the antenna mounts. You should see the antenna base and cable from underneath. Be careful not to tear the headliner fabric or damage the backing material.
3. 3

   Disconnect antenna cable
   Locate the antenna cable connector attached to the base of the antenna assembly. Press the release tab and pull straight down to disconnect the coaxial cable. If equipped with an amplifier, disconnect the power connector as well by squeezing the release tab.
4. 4

   Remove antenna mounting hardware
   From the exterior, grip the antenna mast firmly and rotate counterclockwise to remove it from the base. Use a 10mm socket to remove the mounting bolts securing the antenna base to the roof (typically 3 bolts in a triangular pattern). Support the base from below with your other hand as you remove the final bolt.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove antenna base assembly
   Carefully lift the antenna base assembly up through the roof opening from the exterior. Have an assistant support it from inside if possible to prevent it from falling into the headliner cavity. Inspect the roof opening and clean any debris or old sealant residue.
6. 6

   Inspect and prepare mounting surface
   Check the roof paint around the antenna mounting hole for any rust or damage. Clean the mounting surface with isopropyl alcohol to ensure proper gasket seal. Inspect the new antenna base gasket to ensure it is properly seated in the groove.
7. 7

   Install new antenna base
   From the exterior, carefully lower the new antenna base assembly through the roof opening, ensuring the gasket is properly aligned. Align the mounting bolt holes with the roof openings. From inside, have an assistant guide the cable through if needed.
8. 8

   Secure antenna base
   Install the three mounting bolts finger-tight first to ensure proper alignment. Tighten the bolts in a star/crossing pattern to 27.0 Nm (20 lb-ft) to ensure even gasket compression and prevent leaks. Do not overtighten as this can crack the base or damage the roof panel.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Connect antenna cable
   From inside the vehicle, reconnect the antenna coaxial cable to the base by pushing firmly until you hear a click. If equipped, reconnect the amplifier power connector. Gently tug on the cable to verify it is securely seated.
10. 10

    Install antenna mast
    Thread the antenna mast onto the base by hand, turning clockwise. Tighten firmly by hand only—do not use tools as this can strip the threads or crack the base. The mast should feel snug but not require excessive force.

Reassembly

1. Gently press the headliner back into its original position, ensuring no wrinkles or gaps appear
2. Reinstall the overhead console cover by aligning the clips and pressing firmly until all tabs snap into place
3. Reinstall any removed trim pieces such as the sunglasses holder

Verification

• Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position and test AM/FM radio reception on multiple stations to verify antenna function
• If equipped with satellite radio, verify signal reception after allowing system to acquire satellites (may take 2-5 minutes)
• Inspect the antenna base from outside for proper alignment and gasket seal around the perimeter
• Check for water leaks by spraying water around the antenna base or waiting for the next rain
• Verify the antenna mast is secure and does not wobble excessively when touched

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