Toyota Camry: How to Replace Door Handle

This article applies to the Toyota Camry (1997-2011).

While not common, it is possible to pull the door handle off your 4th, 5th or 6th generation Toyota Camry while attempting to enter the vehicle. Don't worry. The damage is generally not the result of some overflow of aggression. As the saying goes, these things just happen, particularly when your vehicle reaches a certain age or experiences a certain level of wear due to years of repeated use. Let's go over the step-by-step instructions you'll need to take to replace a broken or malfunctioning door handle on your 4th, 5th or 6th gen Toyota Camry.

Step 1 – Remove the door handle

• Remove the end clip from your door handle by rotating them in a counterclockwise direction.
• Disconnect the links on the door lock, sliding one of the links off the connecting rod and removing it completely. This will free the links from the arm.
• Next, remove the three screws located on the side of the door.
• If your Camry model has power locks, disconnect the connector by hand, and then ease the door lock through the service hole, which may have a cover, so you can remove it completely.
• You'll need to remove the two bolts that hold the door handle firmly in place on your door using a wrench.
• Once these bolts are removed, remove the door handle.

Step 2 – Install the new door handle

Before installing the new door handle, apply a liberal amount of grease to its sliding parts to prevent sticking and/or damage. Secure your screws using a tread locking adhesive. Using a brand named Loctite is recommended. Installation is the reverse of removal.

If the end clip or rods on the door latch assembly are broken, it's recommended that you stop this do-it-yourself project and visit a local Toyota dealership to have a professional mechanic take over in the replacement of your door handle. Internal parts that are broken and/or have become lost inside of your vehicle's door can be difficult to locate. Once they are found, they can be difficult to repair; these important connecting parts must be intact for you to properly mount your new door handle. If you do wish to carry on with this project and need to find or repair a clip that has fallen inside your door, the general steps for removing your door panel include:

• Remove the door panel by unscrewing all of the screws located along the door.
• Make sure to removing the arm rest and door crank.
• Using your putty knife, gently, yet firmly, pry the bottom pat of the panel away from the metal part of the door.

Featured Video: How to Remove Door Handle Toyota Camry

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