How to Install a Stereo in a Toyota Corolla

The Toyota Corolla has been around long enough that many owners find themselves needing to replace the factory stereo. Installing a new stereo in the Toyota Corolla gives improved sound and updated features. Swapping out the stereo in the Toyota Corolla takes basic tools and less than an hour. This article covers models from 1990 to 2000.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Screwdrivers
• Wiring harness adaptor
• Toyota radio mounting kit

Suggest Edits

1. • 1

     Open the hood and remove the negative battery cable from the terminal. Apply the parking brake and place the car in "D."

   • 2

     Remove the trim from around the stereo by prying with your fingers at one corner. Some early models have two screws at the top of the trim piece to remove first. Allow the trim to hang on the drivers side of the dash if it's connected to the cigarette lighter.

   • 3

     Locate and remove the four screws holding the stereo in place. Pull the radio out of the dash and disconnect the wires from the back of the head unit.

   • 4

     Connect the wiring harness adaptor to the original harness and let it hang from the dash. Slide the new stereo into the Toyota radio mounting kit, which is a thin metal cover and secure it per the manufacturer's instructions. Most adaptors have screws to hold the stereo in place, however some have clips, which engage automatically.

   • 5

     Plug the wiring harness adaptor and antenna wire into the back of the new head unit and push the entire assembly into the dash. Reconnect the negative battery cable and turn the radio on.

   • 6

     Ensure all of the stereo controls and speakers are working. Secure the radio in the dash with the original four screws and replace the trim.

How to Change a Toyota Evaporator

The evaporator coil in the air conditioning system of your Toyota is used to absorb hot air which passes through the system. If the evaporator coil becomes damaged, it will result in your air conditioning module not working correctly. You can pick up a replacement evaporator coil from your local auto store. The job will take you a couple of hours to complete.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Socket wrench
• Phillips screwdriver
• Evaporator coil

1. • 1

     Drive your Toyota to your local A/C repair center and ask them to remove the Freon from the system. It is illegal to vent the Freon into the atmosphere, so this must be completed by a professional.

   • 2

     Drive your vehicle back to your work area. Use A Phillips screwdriver to remove the lower dash panels. Lift the dash panels away from the vehicle in order to gain access to the A/C module.

   • 3

     Use a nut driver to loosen the bolt on the compressor belt tensioner. Lift the belt away from the module. Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts attached to the compressor. Unhook the electrical wiring and remove the compressor to gain access to the evaporator coil.

   • 4

     Lift the old coil away from the A/C module and replace it with a new one. Follow step 3 in reverse to reattach the compressor. Place the dash panels back on the dash and secure them in place with a Phillips screwdriver.

   • 5

     Drive your vehicle back to the A/C center and have the system in your Toyota refilled with Freon.

How to Replace Dash Lights in a Toyota Corolla

All your gauges are in the dash's instrument cluster.

The dash lights in your Toyota Corolla's instrument cluster can last indefinitely, but you will need to replace any light that does burn out. You need to remove the instrument cluster from the dash in order to change the bulbs. The Corolla is a compact car, and so you will need to clear space within the car to access the cluster. This will involve removing the steering wheel. This process is primarily for models made in the 21st century; it may vary depending on the exact year of your Corolla.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Adjustable wrench
• Flat screwdriver
• Torx screwdriver
• Dash light bulb

1. Removal

   • 1

     Disconnect the Corolla's negative battery cable. Wait at least 10 minutes for the air bag's power to be depleted. This is an important safety precaution to avoid accidental airbag deployment.

   • 2

     Loosen the screws on the side of the steering wheel with a Torx screwdriver until the threads catch on the screw case, then lift the air bag off the steering wheel and disconnect its electrical connector.

   • 3

     Mark the steering wheel's relationship to the shaft with paint or a marker, then remove the wheel's central nut with a wrench and pull off the wheel -- this may require a special puller tool.

   • 4

     Pull out the single pin on the underside of the cluster trim bezel, then pry off the bezel with a screwdriver to remove it.

   • 5

     Remove the single screw at the top of the cluster, pry and release the two bottom clips and pull the cluster out. Disconnect the electrical connectors in the back.

   • 6

     Turn the bulb holder for the light(s), located in the rear of the cluster, counterclockwise and remove them from the cluster, then pull the bulb out of the holder.

   Installation

   • 1

     Push the new bulb into the holder, using gloves or a clean rag so oils won't get on the glass. Insert the holder back into the cluster and turn it clockwise.

   • 2

     Insert the cluster back into the dash with its clips and screw.

   • 3

     Reconnect the trim bezel onto the dash with its clips and the push-pin on the underside.

   • 4

     Reconnect the steering wheel to the shaft, lining up the markings and tightening the central nut. Reconnect the air bag to the wheel using the Torx screws.

   • 5

     Reconnect the battery cable.

How to Replace a Toyota Truck Fan Belt

If the belt is slipping or squealing on your Toyota truck, check to see if it is worn or glazed. A worn, glazed or damaged belt is more prone to failure leaving you sitting on the side of the road. The belt on the Toyota truck spins the alternator, providing electrical power to the ignition of the truck as well as charging the battery. The belt also spins the fan and water pump to keep the engine from overheating. This belt is inexpensive and can be purchased at any auto parts store as well as through the Toyota dealer.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Socket set
• New drive belt

1. • 1

     Locate the alternator on the passengers side of the engine. There are several mounting bolts on the alternator that are used to tension the belt on the pulleys.

   • 2

     Locate and loosen the top mounting bolt on the alternator bracket with a socket and ratchet. Do not remove the bolt from the bracket.

   • 3

     Locate and loosen the lower bolt on the alternator with a socket and ratchet. Do not remove the bolt from the bracket.

   • 4

     Push the alternator in toward the engine block and allow the belt to become slack or loose on the pulleys. Remove the belt from the pulleys and slide if off over the fan. Lift it out of the engine compartment.

   • 5

     Slip the new belt in over the fan blades and place it on the crank shaft pulley at the bottom of the engine. Loop the belt over the alternator pulley and pull the alternator out away from the engine until the belt is tight.

   • 6

     Tighten the upper mounting bolt on the alternator with a socket and ratchet then tighten the lower mounting bolt. Check the tension on the belt by pushing on it with your fingers. It should deflect about 1/8 of an inch f it is properly tensioned.

How to Find Toyota Recall Information‎

Since 1999, hundreds of injuries and 19 deaths have been attributed to Toyota vehicles that eventually were recalled. If you own a Toyota, finding this information is pivotal to keeping you and your family safe.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. • 1

     Check the Toyota floor mat recall list to determine whether your vehicle has been affected. Per Toyota's website, recalled vehicles include: 2005-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 Camry, 2009-2010 Corolla, 2008-2010 Highlander, 2009-2010 Matrix, 2004-2009 Prius, 2005-2010 Tacoma, 2007-2010 Tundra and 2009-2010 VENZA.

   • 2

     Remove the driver's-side floor mat until Toyota contacts you to set up a repair appointment at an authorized dealer.

   • 3

     Locate your Vehicle Identification Number. It is inside the windshield on the driver's side above the dashboard or on a sticker the driver's side pillar.

   • 4

     Check the Toyota accelerator pedal recall list to verify whether your vehicle is part of that recall. Some vehicles are subject to both recalls. Per Toyota's website, vehicles recalled include: certain 2009-2010 RAV4s, certain 2009-2010 Corollas, 2009-2010 Matrix, 2005-2010 Avalon, certain 2007-2010 Camrys, certain 2010 Highlanders, 2007-2010 Tundra and 2008-2010 Sequoia. Highlander and Camry hybrids are not affected, nor are Camry, RAV4, Corolla and Highlander vehicles with Vehicle Identification Numbers that begin with "J."

   • 5

     Wait to be contacted by Toyota to schedule repairs.

Tips & Warnings

• Call Toyota at (800) 331-4331 for more information.

How to Replace a Horn in a Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is the marketing name for the Toyota Kluger in North America. It is a crossover Sport Utility Vehicle that has been in production since 2001. Many Toyota Highlander enthusiasts are dissatisfied with the sound of the original equipment manufacturer's horn and choose to replace it. This task is fairly straightforward and requires only a few tools to complete.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• New horn kit
• Wire crimper/stripper
• Socket wrench set

1. • 1

     Locate the stock horns. The Toyota Highlander has both high and low tone horns. One is behind the Toyota emblem inside front grill and the other is under the driver's side headlamp. If you are only replacing one horn, make sure the new horn has the right tone.

   • 2

     Unplug the power connectors and remove the single mounting bolt on each horn with the socket wrench. Take out the original horns.

   • 3

     Mount the new horns using the bolts and washers in the kit and the original mounting holes, if possible. Ensure you have one low tone and one high tone horn if your kit is not a direct factory replacement.

   • 4

     Mount the new horns in the original location and plug in the power connectors to each new horn if you are installing factory replacements. If the original harness is not compatible with the new horns, you will need to use your wire crimper/stripper to connect the original wiring to the new harnesses. You will then be able to plug the new harnesses into the new horns.

   • 5

     Test the new horns. They should make a highly discordant sound if they are both working. You can test each horn separately by plugging one in at a time.

How to Replace the Shocks and Struts in a Toyota Corolla

The Toyota Corolla is a sleek sedan designed for great handling and a smooth and comfortable ride. To keep it handling as it should, and to keep the ride as comfortable as possible, you need to replace your shocks and struts at least every 60,000 miles.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Floor jack
• Jack stands
• Tire iron
• Ratchet set
• Adjustable wrench
• Spring compressor
• Replacements for worn parts
• Torque wrench

1. Replace the Front Struts in a Corolla

   • 1

     Lift the front end of the Corolla with a floor jack and support it by the frame with jack stands. Loosen and remove the nuts on the front wheels with a tire iron and set the wheels aside. Find the struts under the front of the car. They are coiled springs with hardware running through them and onto both ends.

   • 2

     Locate the stabilizer bar link nut midway down the strut and disconnect it. Remove any brackets holding hoses or wires from the strut assembly. Remove the two bolts on the lower end of the strut. Disconnect the three nuts holding the top of the strut to the body. Pull the strut out and repeat this step on the other side of the Corolla.

   • 3

     Compress the spring, and remove the center nut from the top of the strut. Remove the mounting bracket, dust cover, upper spring seat, upper spring insulator, coil spring, bumper and lower spring insulator. Replace any worn parts, and reassemble the strut. Set the dial on the torque wrench to 35 foot lb. and tighten the center nut until the wrench slips. Decompress the spring and repeat this step on the other strut.

   • 4

     Position the strut in the suspension and install the upper nuts. Torque them to 29 foot lb. Install the lower bolts and torque them to 113 foot lb. Position the brake hose and anti-lock brake brackets back on the strut and torque their connections to 21 foot lb. Install the stabilizer bar link and torque it to 55 foot lb. Repeat this step on the other side of the Corolla.

   • 5

     Mount the front wheels and lower the front end of the car. Have a professional align the front wheels.

   Replace the Rear Shocks in a Corolla

   • 1

     Lift the rear end of the Corolla and support it by the frame with jack stands. Remove the rear wheels and set them aside. Pop the trunk and remove the spare wheel cover. Pop out the access panel in the trunk for the shocks and support the rear axle with a jack stand.

   • 2

     Locate the shocks directly behind the wheel hub and remove the nuts connecting the shock to the frame and the one attaching it to the control arm. Repeat this step on the other side of the Corolla.

   • 3

     Position the new shock, bolt it in and torque the bolts to 56 foot lb. Repeat this step on the other side of the Corolla.

   • 4

     Pop the access panels in the trunk back in and put the spare wheel cover back. Close the trunk. Mount the rear wheels and lower the rear end of the car.

Tips & Warnings

• Auto parts stores often rent specialty tools, like the spring compressor, and can give you explicit instructions for using them.

How to Tune a 1995 Toyota Camry

Old spark plugs can cause your '95 Camry to run poorly or get low fuel economy.

The 1995 Toyota Camry has a 2.2 liter, four-cylinder engine. The engine is fairly reliable, but it does need basic maintenance to keep it running properly. The basic tuneup on a 1995 Camry includes: spark plugs, ignition wires, distributor cap and rotor. All of these parts slowly break down due to the heat produced by the engine. Performing a tuneup on the '95 Camry is a relatively easy task and will save you several hundred dollars by not taking it to a repair shop.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Ratchet
• 3-inch extension
• Socket set
• Spark plug socket
• Spark plugs
• Spark plug wires
• Distributor cap
• Ignition rotor

1. Spark Plugs

   • 1

     Remove the spark plug wire by pulling it straight up from the spark plug by hand.

   • 2

     Loosen the spark plug with a ratchet, extension and socket and pull it out from the tube.

   • 3

     Insert the new spark plug into the tube and use the ratchet, extension and spark plug socket to tighten the spark plug.

   • 4

     Push the spark plug wire onto the new spark plug; it will click when it is secured to the plug.

   • 5

     Repeat Steps 1 through 4 for the remaining spark plugs.

   Spark Plug Wires

   • 1

     Remove the spark plug wire by pulling it straight up from the spark plug by hand.

   • 2

     Trace the wire back to where it connects to the distributor.

   • 3

     Pull the wire off of the distributor manually.

   • 4

     Push the new wire onto the distributor by hand; it will click when it is fully connected.

   • 5

     Run the wire to the spark plug that you removed the wire from. Push the wire onto the plug; it will click when it's fully seated.

   • 6

     Repeat Steps 1 through 5 for all of the remaining wires.

   Cap and Rotor

   • 1

     Locate the distributor cap; it is to the driver's side of the engine and has spark plug wires running into it.

   • 2

     Loosen the two bolts holding the distributor cap to the distributor with a ratchet and socket.

   • 3

     Pull the cap off of the distributor.

   • 4

     Remove the spark plug wires from the old cap and transfer them to the new cap. Perform this one wire at a time to make certain you keep the firing order correct.

   • 5

     Pull the rotor from the distributor assembly by hand.

   • 6

     Push the new rotor onto the distributor until it clicks into place.

   • 7

     Set the new cap onto the distributor; make certain to line the bolt holes up.

   • 8

     Tighten the bolts with the ratchet and socket until the cap is secure.

How to Change a Toyota TPMS

A faulty TPMS cannot be fixed: it must be replaced.

Flag this photo

A TPMS, or Tire Pressure Monitoring System, is a sensor that is often housed in the tire's valve stem. The Transportation Recall Enhancement, Accountability, and Documentation (TREAD) Act stated that all vehicles made after 2008 must be be fitted with a TPMS, which alerts a driver when a tire has low pressure. The device measures tire pressure and temperature, then transmits this data to your tire pressure monitor ECU/receiver. However, sensors can fail due to any number of reasons including mechanical or electrical failure. You must take care while attempting to replace your TPMS-equipped tire or you could risk interfering with or damaging the sensor.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Crowbar
• Replacement TPMS
• Bartec Wheelrite TECH400 tool
• Jack
• Support stands
• Penetrating oil
• Tire iron
• Pliers

Suggest Edits

1. • 1

     Take your car to a certified technician, who will use a Bartec Wheelrite TECH400 tool to determine if your sensor needs replaced, and also pinpointing the nature of the problem.

   • 2

     Buy a replacement sensor-containing valve stem that is configured for your Toyota. To cut down on costs, try purchasing a replacement sensor from aftermarket sources.

   • 3

     Raise your car in the air using a jack and support stands. Remove your tire by spraying its lug nuts down with penetrating oil then using a tire iron to remove the nuts.

   • 4

     Relieve the tire pressure by unscrewing the valve stem cap to let air out. The valve stem is a metallic valve that sticks out from the tire. Next, lay the tire on the ground and use a crowbar to break the beads, or seal between the wheel and tire. Pry the tire from the wheel with the crowbar.

   • 5

     Soak and lubricate your replacement valve stem in some liquid dish soap, then slide it into the hole in the tire vacated by the old valve stem. The valve will seal itself. Seat the tire beads onto the wheel using the crowbar.

   • 6

     Reinflate the tire according to the manufacturer's specifications, which can be found in the owner's manual.

   • 7

     Reprogram the ECU (Engine Control Unit) with the diagnostic tool using the replacement TPMS's unique ID and its position on your car. This information varies from model to model, but can found the sensor's service manual. The ECU is generally found on the engine, though its exact location varies from model to model.

How to Replace a Power Mirror in a Toyota Camry

The Toyota Camry is a great mid-sized family sedan, and with the newer hybrid models, it has become one of the leaders in low cost travel options. The power mirror construction in the entire line of Camry's is the same for all model years. This is a simple replacement project that most vehicle owners can manage.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Screwdriver
• Wrench

1. Remove the Old Mirror

   • 1

     Disconnect the Camry's negative cable to the battery.

   • 2

     Remove the triangle-shaped interior mirror cover from the top of the door panel. Pry the cover off with your hands, a blunt plastic or wooden tool to prevent damage to the door trim.

   • 3

     Disconnect the mirror wiring connection.

   • 4

     Remove the insulation around the mirror. Take out the mounting nuts.

   • 5

     Pull the power mirror off the Toyota Camry.

   Install the New Mirror

   • 1

     Put the new mirror on your Camry.

   • 2

     Install the mounting nuts. Tighten the screws to hold the mirror in place. Replace the mirror insulation.

   • 3

     Reconnect the wiring to the new mirror.

   • 4

     Install the triangle interior cover by snapping it back in place.

   • 5

     Connect the negative battery cable.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid accidentally slipping with a screwdriver and breaking the window by leaving it down during mirror replacement. It's also easier to gain access and reach through the door from either side.

• If your Camry model is equipped with side air bags, disable them so they aren't accidentally engaged while you work.

How to disable the seatbelt chime in a Toyota SUV

disable the seatbelt chime in a Toyota SUV

Flag this photo

Some people find the seat belt warning chime to be annoying and unnecessary, whether it is sounding because there is a dog or bag on the passenger's seat, or because they have unbuckled their seat belt to assist in backing up. If you are one of those people, and you have a late model Toyota SUV, there is an easy solution. Toyota has allowed the owner to disable the chime in the 4Runner (4th Generation, 2003-2009), FJ Cruiser (2007-current), Lexus RX (2004-2008), and RAV4 (2006-current). This may work on other Toyota (Matrix, etc) or Scion models, particularly those manufactured in Japan.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• 4Runner (4th Generation, 2003-2009), FJ Cruiser (2007-current), Lexus RX (2004-2008), or RAV4 (2006-current)

Suggest Edits

1. • 1
     Key in the ON position

     Turn the key to the ON position

   • 2
     Correct screen - ODO

     Press the trip/odometer button until the screen shows the ODO reading (rather than TRIP A or TRIP B)

   • 3

     Turn the key to the OFF position

   • 4

     Turn the key to the ON position

   • 5

     Press and hold the trip/odometer button (within 6 seconds of turning the key)

   • 6

     Hold the trip/odometer button for 10 seconds, then fasten the driver's seatbelt

   • 7

     "b_on" should appear on the odometer screen - at this point you can release the trip/odometer button

   • 8
     

     Press the trip/odometer button - "b_off" should appear

   • 9

     Turn the key to the OFF position

Tips & Warnings

• If you have no success the first time, try again.

• Be safe - wear your seatbelt!

How to Replace the Water Pump in a Toyota Camry

The water pump is the heart of the Toyota Camry's cooling system, circulating the coolant. Make sure to change out a faulty water pump, which could cause the engine to overheat, resulting in serious damage.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

1. 1MZ-FE Camry Engine

   • 1

     Disconnect the negative cable on the car battery before you begin. You need to wait at least 90 seconds before beginning the process of removing the water pump after disconnecting the battery cable.

   • 2

     Place a drain pan underneath the radiator. When the engine is cool, drain the cooling system from the radiator into the pan.

   • 3

     Remove the timing belt and the #2 idler pulley. Take off the 3 clamps from the rear timing belt cover and remove the engine wire. Then take off the rear timing belt cover and remove the water pump from the engine.

   • 4

     Add liquid sealer to the gasket to the water pump, the water pump itself and the engine block. Install the new water pump, tightening the bolts to 53 inch pounds (6 Nm). Install the rear timing belt cover, tightening the bolts to 74 inch pounds (9 Nm).

   • 5

     Reconnect the engine wire and the 3 clamps to the rear timing belt cover and reinstall the #2 idler pulley, tightening the bolts to 32 foot pounds (43 Nm).

   • 6

     Line up the knock pin on the camshaft with the knock pin hole on the camshaft pulley while the flange side of the right-hand camshaft pulley is facing outward. Insert the bolt and tighten to 65 foot pounds (88 Nm).

   • 7

     Line up the knock pin on the camshaft with the knock pin hole on the camshaft pulley while the flange side of the left-hand camshaft pulley is facing inward. Insert the bolt and tighten to 94 foot pounds (125 Nm).

   • 8

     Attach the timing belt and reattach the negative battery cable. Refill the cooling system with coolant to the proper levels. Start the engine and check for leaks when the engine reaches normal operating temperatures.

   2AZ-FE Camry Engines

   • 1

     Disconnect the negative cable on the car battery before you begin and drain the coolant from the radiator.

   • 2

     Remove the RH front wheel, the RH fender apron seal, the RH engine stay brackets and engine stay, the Engine stabilizer control rod and alternator, the water pump pulley and assembly.

   • 3

     Install a new gasket onto the water pump and attach the water pump assembly, tightening the bolts to 80 inch pounds (9.0 Nm).

   • 4

     Attach the water pump pulley, the alternator, the engine stabilizing control rod and mounting bracket, the engine mounting stay and the right front apron wheel along with the seal.

   • 5

     Attach the timing belt and reattach the negative battery cable. Refill the cooling system with coolant to the proper levels. Start the engine and check for leaks when the engine reaches normal operating temperatures.

Tips & Warnings

• Loud noises coming from the cooling system could be a sign that your water pump needs replacing. A leak in the coolant may also be an indicator. You can expect that a water pump will need to be changed every 70 to 100 thousand miles or so in a Toyota vehicle.

• Disconnecting the negative battery cable may reset the onboard computer system or parts of the computer system, so be aware that you may have to reset certain settings.

• Never attempt to drain the radiator when the engine is hot. The steam and the hot coolant within the radiator can cause serious burns.

How to Replace Front Disc Brakes in a Toyota Tacoma

If you want to keep up the maintenance on your 2001 through 2004 Toyota Tacoma, then you need to make sure that you replace the front disc brakes. If you take preventive measures rather than waiting for your brakes to fail, you'll avoid paying a heavy cost later.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Turkey baster, syringe or similar tool
• Torque wrench
• Brake pads
• Hammer or similar tool
• Flathead screw driver
• C-clamp
• Brake Fluid

1. • 1

     Park the Toyota Tacoma on a flat surface. Put the emergency brake on and put wedges behind the wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery.

   • 2

     Drain 2/3 of the brake fluid from the master cylinder by using a turkey baster, syringe or similar tool to siphon a small amount of brake fluid from the reservoir. Remove the wheel. Loosen the brake caliper upper side mounting bolt. Loosen and then remove the lower side mounting bolt using a flathead screwdriver.

   • 3

     Press in the brake caliper piston using a hammer or similar tool. Remove the anti-squeal spring, if your Tacoma has one. Check the disc thickness and disc runout before you install the new pads. Remove the brake pads.

   • 4

     Compress the piston of the disc brake caliper using a C-Clamp or similar tool. Install the pad support brakes, the anti-squeal shims, to each pad and then install the disc pads. Make sure that the wear indicator plate is facing downward. Install the anti-squeal springs, if you removed them.

   • 5

     Install the brake caliper so the boot isn't wedged, torqueing the caliper bolts so that the 2-wheel drive with PD60 type disc is 29 foot/pounds and the 2-wheel drive with FS17 type disc is 65 foot/pounds. Install the wheel and tire assembly.

   • 6

     Check the fluid level and add brake fluid as needed. Press the brake pedal several times to seat the brake pads against the rotor. Keep pressing the brake petal until you feel resistance. Drive the Tacoma at a slow to moderate speed until you're sure that you performed the maintenance correctly.

How to Change the Remote Key Battery for a Toyota

Nearly all new Toyota vehicles come with a keyless entry remote. This small remote attaches to your key chain and can be used to unlock and lock your car, in addition to activating the panic alarm. Some keyless models even allow you to pop your trunk with the push of a button. However, the remote runs on a battery, which will eventually run out of power and need to be changed.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Replacement 3-volt battery

• 1

  Look at the front of your keyless Toyota remote; you will see a small indentation in the plastic. This small hole allows you to open the remote.

• 2

  Insert a key into the indentation and pull upward. The remote is going to separate into two different pieces.

• 3

  Remove the thin, circular battery by pulling it up. You may need to use your key to pry it out.

• 4

  Insert the replacement 3-volt battery. On the inside of where the battery is inserted you can see a symbol for either a positive or negative side (depending on what side of the casing you are looking at). Place the negative side of the battery down onto the negative side of the remote (there are corresponding minus and plus signs on the battery).

• 5

  Snap the two parts of the Toyota keyless remote back together and you are set to resume using

How to Change a Cabin Air Filter in a Toyota Corolla

Change a Cabin Air Filter in a Toyota Corolla

Not too long ago, cabin air filters could only be found on the most expensive vehicles. But in the late 1990s, these filters caught on as a trend among many of the largest auto manufacturers. They cut down on dirt, dust, allergens and even odor entering the Corolla's passenger cabin through the outside air intake. Of course, these filters become clogged with time and should be replaced regularly to ensure the cleanest cabin air and the best air flow to the cabin vents.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Replacement cabin air filter

1. • 1

     Check to see which model year your Toyota Corolla is. Cabin air filters were not installed on models older than 2003.

   • 2

     Open the passenger side glove compartment. Look for two small screws in the top of the glove compartment interior.

   • 3

     Remove both screws with a Phillips head screwdriver. Support the glove compartment unit as it swings down toward the floor of the car. It is hinged in the back, and will not come completely loose from the dashboard assembly.

   • 4

     Open the rectangular black plastic case hidden behind the glove compartment. You should be able to see the old filter inside.

   • 5

     Slide the old air filter to either side to loosen it from the plastic clips holding it in place. Discard the old filter, unless you determine that it isn't too dirty to need to be replaced yet.

   • 6

     Slide the new filter into place in the plastic case and replace the lid.

   • 7

     Lift the glove compartment back up and replace the screws with the screwdriver. Close the glove compartment lid.

Tips & Warnings

• Look on the packaging of your replacement air filter for guidelines about when you should replace it. Different brands of air filters have different recommendations.

• If your air filter becomes clogged and is not replaced, it can reduce air pressure through your air conditioning and heating vents, as well as through your defrosters and defoggers.

How to Replace Front Disc Brakes in a Toyota Corolla

Offering a smooth ride, comfort, reliability and good gas mileage, your 2004 Toyota Corolla was a good choice. Whether you are the original owner or inherited the car, you need to perform scheduled maintenance on your Corolla. One form of this maintenance is to replace the front disc brakes in your Toyota Corolla.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Wheel blocks
• Jack
• Jackstands
• Turkey baster, syringe or similar tool
• Mechanic's wire
• Brake pads
• Torque wrench
• Brake fluid

1. • 1

     Park the vehicle on a flat and level surface. Apply the parking brake. Secure the vehicle by wedging something behind the wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery. Loosen the lug nuts. Jack the vehicle up and support the front of the vehicle securely on jackstands.

   • 2

     Drain the brake fluid from the master cylinder reservoir until it is approximately 1/3 full by using a syringe, like a turkey baster or other similar tool. The old fluid will not be reused, so throw it away. Disconnect and remove the wheel.

   • 3

     Remove the caliper mounting bolts then remove the caliper assembly. Do not disconnect the brake hose. Suspend the caliper from the frame using mechanic's wire.

   • 4

     Install the pad plates into the torque plate. Install the pad wear indicators onto the pads. The arrow on the indicator plate should point in the direction of rotation. Install the anti-squeal shims on the outside of each pad. Install the pad assemblies into the torque plate.

   • 5

     Compress the caliper piston into the bore. Position the caliper back down over the pads. Install the caliper mounting bolts. Using a torque wrench tighten the caliper mounting bolts. Reinstall the wheels. Add brake fluid.

   • 6

     Reconnect the negative battery cable to the battery. Start the car and pump the brake pedal 3-4 times to seat the brake pads. Drive the Toyota Corolla at slow to moderate speeds to make sure that the maintenance was performed correctly.

Tips & Warnings

• Prior to performing the maintenance on your Toyota Corolla visit your local automotive parts supply store and purchase the necessary tools. Be prepared to provide the auto parts store employee with the make, model and year of your Toyota Corolla. Sometimes they will inquire as to the engine size 4-cylinder in most instances.