Q: How to service and repair the Ignition Lock Assembly and associated components on Toyota Camry?
A: The service and repair of ignition lock components and their associated parts should begin by using a vise to secure the steering column assembly yet avoiding excessive force. Drill two holes at center points of the tapered-head bolts and extract them with a screw extractor through a 3 to 4 mm drill. This allows removal of both steering lock actuator assembly and steering lock bracket. When dealing with the transponder key amplifier separately from the Smart Key System you need to widen the upper bracket's claws using a screwdriver before carefully extracting the amplifier to protect its case. Move the steering column assembly into the vise for another time to detach its upper assembly combined with switch bracket through the same process of marking and bolt removal. One should begin removal of the ignition switch lock cylinder assembly by moving it to the ACC position then inserting a screwdriver into its designated hole while pulling until the claw contacts the stopper before releasing the claw and pulling out the assembly. Recovery of the un-lock warning switch assembly starts with pushing up the central portion to disengage the claws followed by removing the key interlock solenoid through two screw removal. When repairing the starter switch assembly users must first disengage the claws which will allow them to separate it from the steering lock sub-assembly. The technician shall mount the steering lock actuator assembly using new tapered-head bolts before slow tightening until the bolt heads separate. Apply the claws to fit the ignition or starter switch assembly before installing two screws for the key interlock solenoid then attaching the un-lock warning switch assembly. Securely install the ignition switch lock cylinder assembly when it is positioned at ACC stage. Test the steering lock function before screwing the steering column upper and switch bracket assembly along with the steering lock bracket using two new tapered-head bolts which need to be tightened until the bolt heads snap off. The transponder key amplifier should be installed onto the upper bracket by avoiding unnecessary force.