This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the wiper switch assembly located on the steering column of a 2019-2024 Toyota RAV4 with 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Wiper switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering column trim panel clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key/fob from vehicle
3. Ensure front wheels are pointed straight ahead
4. Allow vehicle to sit for at least 5 minutes if recently driven
5. Gather all tools and new wiper switch assembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Open the hood and locate the battery. Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative battery terminal bolt and remove the cable. Secure it away from the terminal. Wait a minimum of 90 seconds to allow airbag system capacitors to discharge.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the lower steering column trim cover beneath the steering wheel. Remove the two Phillips screws at the bottom of the cover. Gently pull the lower cover away from the column, releasing the retaining clips. Set cover and screws aside in a safe location.
3. 3

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the upper steering column cover. Remove the Phillips screws securing the upper cover (typically two screws). Carefully separate the upper cover from the steering column, working around the ignition switch area. Note the position of any wiring harnesses routed through the cover.
4. 4

   Access wiper switch connector
   With steering column covers removed, locate the wiper switch assembly on the left side of the steering column. Identify the electrical connector at the base of the switch assembly. Press the locking tab on the connector and carefully disconnect the wiring harness from the switch.
   ⚠Do not pull on wires; press the connector release tab fully before separating connector.
5. 5

   Remove wiper switch mounting screws
   Locate the two screws securing the wiper switch assembly to the steering column bracket. These are typically Phillips head screws positioned at the base of the switch housing. Remove both screws completely and retain them if reusing.
6. 6

   Remove wiper switch assembly
   With screws removed and connector disconnected, carefully slide the wiper switch assembly away from the steering column. Note the orientation and position of the switch for proper installation of the new unit. Inspect the mounting area for any debris or damage.
7. 7

   Install new wiper switch assembly
   Position the new wiper switch assembly onto the steering column bracket, ensuring proper alignment with the mounting holes. The switch lever should be oriented to the left side of the steering wheel with natural reach for the driver. Verify the switch slides fully into position before installing screws.
8. 8

   Secure wiper switch mounting screws
   Insert the two mounting screws through the switch housing into the steering column bracket. Hand-tighten both screws initially to ensure proper thread engagement. Using a torque wrench, tighten the screws to 8.0 Nm (6.0 lb-ft) in a cross pattern to ensure even pressure.
   Torque spec

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

   Connect wiper switch electrical connector
   Align the wiring harness connector with the socket on the new wiper switch assembly. Push the connector firmly until you hear and feel a positive click, indicating the locking tab has engaged. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
10. 10

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, routing any wiring harnesses through their proper channels. Install and hand-tighten the Phillips screws. Position the lower cover, ensuring all clips align properly, then snap into place. Install the lower cover screws and tighten securely but do not overtighten plastic fasteners.
11. 11

    Reconnect battery negative terminal
    Return to the battery and position the negative cable back onto the negative terminal post. Thread the terminal bolt by hand to ensure proper engagement. Using a 10mm socket and torque wrench, tighten the battery terminal bolt to 6.0 Nm (4.0 lb-ft). Do not overtighten to avoid damaging the terminal.
    ⚠Do not overtighten battery terminal bolts as this can damage the terminal post or clamp.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column trim panels are fully seated with no gaps
2. Verify all screws are installed and properly tightened
3. Check that wiper switch lever moves smoothly through all positions without binding
4. Confirm no wiring harnesses are pinched between trim panels

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (engine does not need to start)
• Test wiper switch through all positions: OFF, INT (variable speeds), LO, HI, and MIST
• Verify wipers operate at correct speeds in each position
• Test washer spray function by pulling wiper lever toward steering wheel
• Confirm wiper switch returns to proper position after MIST function
• Check that all dashboard warning lights cycle normally after battery reconnection
• Reset clock and radio presets as needed

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