This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the factory radio/head unit (multimedia display) in a 2019-2024 Toyota RAV4 with the 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Replacement radio/head unit × 1 — Use OEM specification or verified aftermarket compatible unit
• Panel clips (if damaged during removal) × 1 — Toyota 90467-10188 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key fob from vehicle interior
3. Allow vehicle to sit for at least 2 minutes to allow all modules to sleep
4. Disconnect negative battery terminal to prevent airbag deployment and electrical shorts
5. Wait 90 seconds after battery disconnect before proceeding (allows airbag system capacitors to discharge)
6. Gather all replacement parts and verify connector compatibility before beginning disassembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative battery terminal bolt. Remove the cable from the terminal and secure it away from the battery post to prevent accidental reconnection during work.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove lower steering column trim panels
   Locate the lower dash panel beneath the steering column. Use a panel removal tool to gently release the retaining clips along the bottom edge. Pull the panel downward and away to remove. This provides access to the lower dash mounting hardware.
3. 3

   Remove climate control panel trim
   Starting at the bottom edge of the climate control/center stack trim panel (surrounding the radio and HVAC controls), carefully insert a panel removal tool between the trim and dash. Work around the perimeter to release all retaining clips. Gently pull the panel forward approximately 2 inches but do not fully remove yet.
4. 4

   Disconnect climate control connectors
   Reach behind the partially removed trim panel and locate the climate control button connectors and hazard light switch connector. Press the release tabs and carefully disconnect each connector. Note their positions for reassembly. Fully remove the trim panel and set aside in a safe location.
5. 5

   Remove radio mounting bolts
   With the trim panel removed, locate the four 10mm mounting bolts securing the radio unit to the dash support bracket (two on each side). Use a 10mm socket with extension to remove all four bolts. Keep bolts organized for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

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

   Extract radio unit from dash
   Carefully pull the radio unit forward from the dash opening. Move slowly and ensure no wiring harnesses are caught or binding. Pull unit forward approximately 6-8 inches to access rear connectors.
7. 7

   Disconnect radio harness connectors
   Locate all connectors on the rear of the radio unit. This typically includes: main power/data harness (large gray connector), antenna connector (push-on coaxial), USB connector(s), and possibly auxiliary connections. Press the release tabs on each connector and carefully disconnect. For the antenna, pull straight back firmly. Take photos of connector positions if helpful for reinstallation.
8. 8

   Remove factory radio unit
   Once all connectors are disconnected, fully remove the factory radio unit from the vehicle. Inspect the mounting bracket and wiring harnesses for any damage. Set the old unit aside.
9. 9

   Connect new radio unit
   Take the replacement radio unit and connect all harness connectors to the corresponding ports on the rear of the new unit. Ensure each connector clicks securely into place. Connect in this order: main power/data harness first, then antenna, then USB and auxiliary connections. Verify all connections are fully seated before proceeding.
10. 10

    Test radio function before final installation
    Temporarily reconnect the negative battery terminal (do not fully tighten). Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position and verify the new radio powers on, display functions correctly, and backup camera operates if equipped. Test steering wheel controls and verify audio output. If everything functions properly, turn off ignition, disconnect battery again, and wait 30 seconds before proceeding.
11. 11

    Install and secure new radio unit
    Carefully guide the new radio unit into the dash opening while ensuring no wiring is pinched. Align the mounting holes with the dash bracket. Install all four 10mm mounting bolts and tighten in a cross pattern (alternating sides) to ensure even seating. Torque bolts to specification.
    Torque spec

    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reconnect climate control and reinstall trim
    Reconnect the climate control and hazard light switch connectors to the back of the trim panel. Align the trim panel with the dash and carefully press around all edges to seat the retaining clips. Ensure the panel sits flush with no gaps. Reinstall the lower steering column trim panel by aligning clips and pressing firmly until seated.
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and initialize system
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and tighten the terminal bolt to specification. After reconnection, turn the ignition to ON (engine off) and allow all vehicle systems to initialize for approximately 30 seconds. The radio and vehicle systems should complete their startup sequence.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim panels are fully seated with no gaps or misalignment
2. Verify all climate control buttons and switches operate correctly after trim reinstallation
3. Check that no warning lights remain illuminated on the instrument cluster after battery reconnection

Verification

• Power on the radio and verify display illuminates and responds to touch inputs
• Test AM/FM radio reception and verify antenna connection is secure
• Verify backup camera image displays when shifting into reverse
• Test all steering wheel audio controls for proper operation
• Verify USB ports charge devices and recognize media if applicable
• Test Bluetooth connectivity and hands-free calling if equipped
• Confirm all HVAC controls function properly and climate control displays correctly
• Check that no error messages or warning lights are present on instrument cluster
• Verify integration with Toyota Safety Sense features if applicable to your model

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