electrical

Sunroof Switch

for 2021 Toyota RAV4 2.5L I4 · AWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
30 min
Tools
4
Steps
12

This procedure replaces the sunroof switch assembly located in the overhead console of the 2019-2024 Toyota RAV4.

Warnings

Disconnect battery negative terminal and wait 90 seconds before working on electrical components to prevent airbag deployment and short circuits
ℹ️Use plastic trim tools to avoid damaging interior finish and clips

Tools required

Interior trim removal tool setEssential
Phillips screwdriverEssential
10mm socket with ratchet
Flashlight or work light

Parts

  • Sunroof switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

  1. Park vehicle on level surface and turn off ignition
  2. Disconnect battery negative terminal and wait 90 seconds for airbag system to discharge
  3. Ensure sunroof is fully closed before beginning work

Procedure

  1. 1
    Disconnect battery negative terminal
    Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative battery terminal bolt. Remove the negative cable from the battery terminal and secure it away from the battery post to prevent accidental reconnection.
    Torque spec
    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
  2. 2
    Wait for airbag system discharge
    Wait a minimum of 90 seconds after disconnecting the battery to allow the airbag system capacitors to fully discharge. This prevents accidental airbag deployment while working on overhead electrical components.
  3. 3
    Remove overhead console lens cover
    Using a plastic trim removal tool, carefully pry the lens cover from the rear edge of the overhead console. Work gently around the perimeter to release the retaining clips. The lens cover houses the map lights and sunroof switch assembly.
  4. 4
    Disconnect map light connectors
    Press the release tabs on both map light electrical connectors and disconnect them from the console assembly. Note the orientation of each connector for reinstallation.
  5. 5
    Remove sunroof switch retaining screws
    Locate the two Phillips screws securing the sunroof switch assembly to the overhead console housing. Remove both screws and retain them for reinstallation.
  6. 6
    Remove sunroof switch assembly
    Carefully pull the sunroof switch assembly down from the overhead console. Locate the electrical connector on the rear of the switch assembly.
  7. 7
    Disconnect sunroof switch connector
    Press the locking tab on the sunroof switch electrical connector and disconnect it from the switch assembly. Note the connector orientation and any alignment guides.
  8. 8
    Install new sunroof switch assembly
    Connect the electrical connector to the new sunroof switch assembly, ensuring it clicks into place and the locking tab engages. Position the switch assembly into the overhead console housing and align the screw holes.
  9. 9
    Secure sunroof switch
    Install the two Phillips screws to secure the sunroof switch assembly to the overhead console. Tighten screws evenly but do not overtighten to avoid cracking the plastic housing.
  10. 10
    Reconnect map light connectors
    Reconnect both map light electrical connectors to the overhead console assembly, ensuring each connector clicks into place securely.
  11. 11
    Reinstall overhead console lens cover
    Align the overhead console lens cover with the housing and press firmly around the perimeter to engage all retaining clips. Ensure the cover is flush and secure.
  12. 12
    Reconnect battery
    Reconnect the negative battery cable to the battery terminal. Tighten the battery terminal bolt to specification.
    Torque spec
    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

  1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
  2. Verify overhead console lens cover clips are fully engaged and cover is flush with headliner
  3. Do not overtighten battery terminal bolt to prevent damage

Verification

  • Turn ignition to ON position and test sunroof operation in all modes (tilt, slide open, slide close)
  • Verify sunroof auto-close and obstacle detection features function properly
  • Test map lights to ensure they were reconnected correctly
  • Check for proper switch illumination when headlights are on
  • Confirm no warning lights or error messages appear on instrument cluster

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