This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the combination switch (turn signal/wiper/headlight stalk assembly) on a 2019-2024 Toyota RAV4 with the 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Combination switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering column cover clips (as needed) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Turn steering wheel to center position with front wheels pointing straight ahead
3. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key/fob from vehicle
4. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait minimum 90 seconds for airbag system capacitor discharge
5. Ensure no one enters the vehicle or touches the steering wheel during the repair

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative battery terminal bolt. Remove the negative cable from the battery and secure it away from the terminal. Wait a minimum of 90 seconds before proceeding to allow the airbag system to fully discharge.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the two Phillips screws on the underside of the lower steering column cover. Remove both screws. Gently pull the lower cover downward and away from the column, disconnecting any retaining clips. Set the cover aside.
3. 3

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the Phillips screws securing the upper steering column cover (typically two screws). Remove the screws and carefully lift the upper cover upward and off the steering column. Watch for any wiring harnesses that may be routed along the cover.
4. 4

   Access combination switch mounting
   With both column covers removed, you will now have access to the combination switch assembly mounted on the left side of the steering column. Identify the electrical connectors at the base of the switch assembly.
5. 5

   Disconnect combination switch connectors
   Locate the two main electrical connectors for the combination switch. Press the locking tab on each connector and carefully pull the connectors straight out from the switch assembly. Note the routing of the wiring harness for reinstallation.
6. 6

   Remove combination switch mounting screws
   Locate the two screws securing the combination switch to the steering column bracket (typically Phillips head screws on the left side of the column). Remove both screws completely and retain them for reinstallation.
7. 7

   Remove combination switch assembly
   With the mounting screws removed and connectors disconnected, carefully slide the combination switch assembly away from the steering column. The switch may have a clamp or bracket that wraps around the column - gently separate this and remove the entire assembly.
8. 8

   Install new combination switch
   Position the new combination switch assembly onto the steering column, ensuring the mounting bracket properly aligns around the column shaft. Verify the switch is oriented correctly with the turn signal stalk on the left side.
9. 9

   Install mounting screws
   Insert and hand-tighten both combination switch mounting screws. Tighten the screws in an alternating pattern to ensure even clamping pressure. Torque screws to specification if provided by Toyota (typically snug but not over-tightened to avoid cracking plastic components).
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Route the wiring harness as noted during removal. Connect both electrical connectors to the combination switch, pushing firmly until you hear or feel each connector lock into place. Verify connectors are fully seated.
11. 11

    Reinstall upper steering column cover
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, ensuring all wiring is properly routed and not pinched. Install the Phillips screws and torque to 11.0 Nm (8.0 lb-ft) if applicable per cover screw specifications.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall lower steering column cover
    Align the lower steering column cover with the upper cover and column assembly. Press firmly to engage all retaining clips. Install the two Phillips screws on the underside and torque to 11.0 Nm (8.0 lb-ft) if applicable.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reconnect battery
    Reconnect the negative battery cable to the negative battery terminal. Torque the battery terminal bolt to 6.0 Nm (4.0 lb-ft). Do not overtighten as this can damage the terminal.
    ⚠Do not overtighten battery terminal bolts as this can damage the battery post
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all steering column covers are properly secured and no rattles are present
2. Confirm all trim pieces are flush and properly aligned
3. Check that no wiring harnesses are pinched or stressed

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (engine off) and verify the instrument cluster illuminates without warning lights for the airbag system
• Test turn signal operation in both left and right positions, verify indicator lights flash properly
• Test high beam and low beam headlight operation using the combination switch
• Test windshield wiper operation in all speed settings including intermittent, low, and high
• Test washer fluid spray function
• Verify all switch positions return to center/off properly with no binding or sticking
• Check that cruise control functions (if equipped on this switch) operate correctly
• Start engine and verify no warning lights remain illuminated on instrument cluster

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