Ignition switch in back of lock cylinder

INTEGGY95

MEMBER
1994 TOYOTA CAMRY
2.2L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
143,000 MILES

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?

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5 Replies

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
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.

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Monday, January 8th, 2018 AT 1:36 AM

INTEGGY95

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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?

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Monday, January 8th, 2018 AT 7:53 AM

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
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.

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Wednesday, January 10th, 2018 AT 6:58 AM

INTEGGY95

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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.

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Friday, January 12th, 2018 AT 2:12 PM

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
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.