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
- Park vehicle on level surface and turn off ignition
- Disconnect battery negative terminal and wait 90 seconds for airbag system to discharge
- Ensure sunroof is fully closed before beginning work
Procedure
- 1Disconnect battery negative terminalUsing 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 specBattery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
- 2Wait for airbag system dischargeWait 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.
- 3Remove overhead console lens coverUsing 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.
- 4Disconnect map light connectorsPress the release tabs on both map light electrical connectors and disconnect them from the console assembly. Note the orientation of each connector for reinstallation.
- 5Remove sunroof switch retaining screwsLocate the two Phillips screws securing the sunroof switch assembly to the overhead console housing. Remove both screws and retain them for reinstallation.
- 6Remove sunroof switch assemblyCarefully pull the sunroof switch assembly down from the overhead console. Locate the electrical connector on the rear of the switch assembly.
- 7Disconnect sunroof switch connectorPress the locking tab on the sunroof switch electrical connector and disconnect it from the switch assembly. Note the connector orientation and any alignment guides.
- 8Install new sunroof switch assemblyConnect 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.
- 9Secure sunroof switchInstall 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.
- 10Reconnect map light connectorsReconnect both map light electrical connectors to the overhead console assembly, ensuring each connector clicks into place securely.
- 11Reinstall overhead console lens coverAlign 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.
- 12Reconnect batteryReconnect the negative battery cable to the battery terminal. Tighten the battery terminal bolt to specification.Torque specBattery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
Reassembly
- Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
- Verify overhead console lens cover clips are fully engaged and cover is flush with headliner
- 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