Ignition switch in back of lock cylinder

1994 TOYOTA CAMRY
143,000 MILES • 2.2L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
INTEGGY95
  • MEMBER
  • 8 POSTS
My car has an issue with starting where it will start no problem intermittently, but other times it will not even crank or turn on accessories. I have tried replacing the cylinder itself and the relay switch. My mechanic friend told me it is the switch behind the cylinder that is the issue. so am replacing that, but cannot find a way to release the last wiring connector that connects to the top of the cylinder assembly. How do I access this to remove without pulling the steering column?
Jan 7, 2018 at 6:50 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
KHLOW2008
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 41,814 POSTS
It is not easy to access that without taking out the steering column.

One other way is to remove the lock cylinder assembly, which would mean drilling out the safety shear bolts.

If the key in reminder (that is the name of the switch) is not faulty, you can leave it as it is and just remove the pins from the wire harness and reinstall onto the new switch.
Jan 8, 2018 at 1:36 AM
Avatar
INTEGGY95
  • MEMBER
  • 8 POSTS
Excellent! I was not sure if I could just swap the old wires into the new unit. Would I pull the wires out from the main connector and push in the old ones or would I have to splice them together?
Jan 8, 2018 at 7:53 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
KHLOW2008
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 41,814 POSTS
Wires can be pulled out but they are locked into position so you need to use a fine screwdriver to release the locking tab first.
Jan 10, 2018 at 6:58 AM
Avatar
INTEGGY95
  • MEMBER
  • 8 POSTS
I’ve been trying to get the wires out for a few days now and I can’t seem to get a good angle on hem to pull them out while lifting the lock tab, so would you be able to help me address removing the steering column from the car? I have two different manuals, but neither of them give a description for removing the steering column from the dash and I can’t find a guide anywhere for it.
Jan 12, 2018 at 2:12 PM
Avatar
KHLOW2008
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 41,814 POSTS
Most probably you won't have to remove the steering completely. Lowering it should allow you access to the switch.

To lower the steering column, what you need to do is to remove the 4 holding bolts.

In your picture you have made a red circle and at edge of circle is one of the lower holding. Loosen both and then remove the upper bolts, the column tube assembly pointer is pointed to one of it. Remove both screw and column should be able to come down. Check for a tab that could be used to hold the steering column to prevent it from dropping while installing. Lifting the steering column towards driver should release it.

If necessary loosen the lower bolts further. Not necessary to remove lower bolts unless you need more working space.

Careful about the headlight and wiper switches, they can get broken if you are not careful.
Jan 14, 2018 at 10:06 PM