How to Identify Toyota Rims

Toyota is a Japanese car manufacturer with affordable and luxury vehicle lines in North America. A car rim is the metal support structure around which the flexible tire sits. To prevent tire damage and other car problems, it is important to identify the right rims for a Toyota car when customizing or replacing the car's old rims.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Tire iron
• Car lift (optional)

1. • 1

     Deflate the tire by removing the cap on the tire valve, located on the inner side of the tire. Detach the wheel and tire from the Toyota vehicle's body by following the instructions in the specific vehicle's Toyota manual as each car is different. You may need to use a car lift.

   • 2

     Use your hands and push against the deflated tire, separating the tire from the rims on both sides of the wheel around the entire circumference of the wheel.

   • 3

     Insert the tire iron between the Toyota rim and the tire rubber and pull slightly up and away from the rim so that the tire pops over the edge of the rim. Continue to do this around the entire edge of the rim until the tire can be removed.

   • 4

     Look at the inside of the tire that you just removed. Every Toyota tire has a size stamp imprinted on its inner side. This stamp will start with "P" or "LT" and will be followed by a row of letters and numbers. Check the last two numbers in the series, which tells you the rim size in inches. Toyota identifies its rims by vehicle (e.g. Toyota Camry) and size.

Tips & Warnings

• When purchasing replacement rims, make sure the rim is the exact size that you identified in Step 4.

• Never attempt to identify the rim by measuring it by hand, because a measurement that is even a fourth of an inch off can pose a significant safety hazard.

How to Replace a Toyota Sienna Serpentine Belt

Engine Belt

The Toyota Sienna uses one belt, the serpentine belt (also called the multi-accessory drive belt) to control all engine accessories, including the power steering, air conditioner compressor, water pump and alternator. Located at the front of the crankshaft, the serpentine belt winds around the pulleys connected to the various accessories and ultimately around a tension pulley that keeps the belt at the correct contact tension so that all the engine accessories engage properly.

Changing the serpentine belt on a Toyota Sienna is a fairly simple do-it-yourself project that requires the proper-sized wrench or socket set. Professionals recommend examining the serpentine belt on the Sienna twice per year or every 25,000 miles; look for fraying, cracking and/or missing chunks.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Replacement serpentine belt
• Wrench set
• Serpentine belt diagram

1. • 1

     Check to ensure the Sienna's engine is cold, then make sure the Sienna is in park, the ignition is in the off position and the key is removed from the ignition to prevent any possibility of the engine engaging during the serpentine belt replacement.

   • 2

     Open the hood and locate the serpentine belt routing diagram sticker on the side of the engine casing. Study it for a moment before removing the existing belt. It is essential the new belt be installed exactly as the diagram indicates.

   • 3

     Find the tensioner pulley, the main pulley that controls the serpentine belt, and fit a 1/2-inch socket wrench over the self-tensioner on the outside of the pulley.

   • 4

     Pull the wrench to the left to move the pulley forward, which loosens the belt, then remove the belt.

   • 5

     Compare the old serpentine belt with the new, replacement belt for length, width and number of grooves on the belt's underside. Be certain the replacement belt is the right part.

   • 6

     Fit the new belt on to each pulley according to the serpentine belt routing diagram on the manufacturer's sticker, or according to the drawing made prior to removing the old belt. Fit the new belt on to the tensioner pulley last, again applying pressure on the pulley's self-tensioner with the half-inch socket wrench to loosen the pulley.

   • 7

     Release the pressure on the self tensioner and allow the tensioner pulley to ease back into place, thereby tightening the new serpentine belt with the appropriate tension.

   • 8

     Remove the wrench and close the hood.

Tips & Warnings

• If the serpentine belt routing diagram on the Sienna is torn, blackened or for any reason unreadable, use a pad and pen/pencil to draw a rough picture of exactly how the existing belt is routed through the various engine accessory pulleys.

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 Understand the Toyota 5S Program

"5S" is a tool that helps drive the Toyota Production System (TPS), a complete management system and corporate philosophy focused on eliminating waste in processes to drive greater efficiency. 5S represents a part of the overall system and is used to enable visual management. The goal of 5S is to make problems easy to spot. Problems in any process represent waste, which in turn represents inefficiency. The name "5S" comes from the five terms used to identify each step that must be followed when using this tool.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. • 1

     Seiri, a Japanese term pronounced "Say-Ree," is translated into English as the verb "sort" or "separate." Sort through all items at each workstation and separate what is needed daily from what is not needed. Tag items that are rarely or infrequently used and move them out of the station. Tagged items will later be disposed of or moved to another area based on a needs assessment that covers the entire plant floor or a section of a facility.

   • 2

     Seiton, pronounced "Say-Ton," means "set in order" or "straighten." Arrange needed items in designated locations and visually mark where they belong. Outline the location around a piece of equipment by marking the floor with paint. If the equipment is moved to another area, the mark will remain as a clear indication of what equipment is missing. Outline each tool in its space on a peg board with tape. If the tool is not in its place at the end of a shift, employees will know to look for it and return it to its place so it is ready for the next shift. The intent is to make abnormal conditions visible so action can be taken immediately to correct the situation. Abnormal conditions result in waste or inefficiency, such as when someone has to waste time to find a missing tool.

   • 3

     Seiso, pronounced "Say-So," means "shine." After sorting and setting things in order, do an initial thorough cleaning of each work area. Cleaning should then become a daily activity. Always keeping the area around a piece of equipment clean will make it easy to recognize problems, such as oil leakage. It is also important to keep debris off the floor to eliminate obstacles that could prevent smooth process flow or pose tripping hazards. Even paper on the floor can represent problems leading to waste. A discarded label on the floor could mean product somewhere in the facility is not properly identified.

   • 4

     Seiketsu, pronounced "Say-Ket-Soo," means "standardize." Now that everything is clean and in order, look for best practices across all work stations. Establish rules and standards associated with what has been done in each of the three previous steps. Make it clear what the standards are that must be matched at each station by defining them in work instructions, posting visual aids or other methods that are meaningful to employees.

   • 5

     Shitsuke, pronounced "Shi-Tsu-Kay," means "sustain." This is the hardest step to achieve. To sustain the cycle of 5S it must become a habit for all employees to look for things that are out of place, identify unnecessary items left in each work area and pick up debris whenever it is spotted. There should be a continuous effort to recognize waste and take action to improve the flow in and out of each workstation. Shitsuke generally requires a change in organizational culture and will always require management commitment.

Tips & Warnings

• Consistent and continuous communication and training, and a reward system, will help to drive 5S philosophies across an organization. Daily or weekly audits performed by each employee at each workstation, followed by occasional random audits by management, can help turn 5S practices into habits.

• Many organizations tend to stop at Step 2. Once there is a place for everything and everything is in its place, activity can stagnate. If this happens, new things will start to accumulate until there will no longer be a place for everything and nothing will be in its place.

How to Replace CV Joints on a Toyota

The CV joints on a Toyota are quite inexpensive to purchase since most vehicles are front-wheel drives. These axles have become very common. It is always cheaper to just buy the whole drive axle rather than try to replace just the CV joints. To replace a CV joint is a lot more work and the axle must come out regardless. Separately, the CV joint and accompanying boot cost more than the axle. Most axles are rebuilt and they always require a core (return the old one, or else you will get charged a core fee).

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Floor jack Jack stands ½-inch set of sockets ½-inch air gun 3/8-inch set of sockets 3/8-inch ratchet Pry bar Hammer Tie rod remover tool Set of wrenches

1. • 1

     Raise and support the vehicle on jack stands. Remove the wheels using the ½-inch air gun and sockets.

   • 2

     Remove the two bolts in the brake caliper using the 3/8-sockets and ratchet. Remove the caliper, but do not let it hang by its hose. Lay it on the spring or tie it up with a coat hanger.

   • 3

     Remove the large axle nut in the center of the brake rotor. This nut holds the axle into the hub bearing. Use the ½-inch air gun and socket to remove it.

   • 4

     Remove the tie rod at the connection to the spindle by removing the cotter pin with the wire cutters, then the nut, using a wrench or socket. Place the tie rod remover tool in between the spindle and the tie rod and hit it with a hammer until it pops the tie rod out of the tapered end of the spindle.

   • 5

     Remove the two large nuts and bolts from the base of the strut where it is attached to the upper arm of the spindle. Use the ½-inch air gun and an 18mm socket. Once the bolts are out, push the strut and pull on the spindle to separate the two.

   • 6

     Push the axle out of the hub in the rotor with the thumb--or if that is too hard, screw the large nut upside down on the end of the axle to protect the threads and tap it with a hammer to break it loose. Remove the nut and push the axle through the bearing while turning the rotor and spindle to make enough room. Lay the axle on the lower control arm.

   • 7

     Remove the CV axle with the pry bar by placing the end of the pry bar in between the transmission and the CV joint.

   • 8

     Insert the inner splined end of the CV axle into the transmission and then pull it back about 1 to 2 inches and quickly slam it in. This will overcome the resistance of the C-clip on the transmission side of the axle. Do not stretch the axle, as the ball bearing in the axle will become dislodged. Just bring the whole axle back a little and push quickly--it will snap in.

   • 9

     Pull the rotor back enough to get the outboard end of the CV axle into the hub bearing. Rotate the rotor slightly to get the splines on the axle to align with the splines in the hub bearing. Push the axle through as far as possible.

   • 10

     Push the upper arm of the spindle and pull the base of the strut to get the top arm into the strut. Insert the two large bolts. Screw the nuts on and tighten them with the 18mm socket and air gun.

   • 11

     Screw the large axle nut on the end of the axle shaft and tighten securely with the ½-inch air gun and socket. Install the tie rod end by putting the bottom, threaded shaft into the hole that it came out of in the spindle steering arm. Screw the nut on. Tighten the nut with a wrench or a socket and insert the cotter pin.

How to Flush a Toyota Windom Radiator

Engine sludge can cause an engine to run improperly.

Engine sludge can build up in a Toyota Windom radiator, causing the veins that transfer fluid through the engine to clog up and the thermostat that regulates engine temperature to fail. To prevent this, flush the radiator. The result will be a radiator that can properly cool the fluid that is flowing through it, thus improving overall engine life.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Ramps
• 3-gallon bucket
• Pliers
• Large disposal container
• Hose
• Water

1. • 1

     Drive the Windom onto a set of front-end ramps and secure the parking brake. This allows easier access to the lower part of the radiator.

   • 2

     Place a 3-gallon bucket under the location where the lower radiator hose connects to the radiator. Squeeze the clamp that holds the hose onto the radiator with a pair of pliers and pull the radiator hose off the radiator. Allow the radiator fluid to drain into the bucket.

   • 3

     Remove the filler cap located on top of the radiator and place a hose that is connected to a water source into the radiator filler spout.

   • 4

     Remove the bucket full of radiator fluid and drain it into a large disposal container. Place the bucket back under the radiator to catch the flush water.

   • 5

     Turn the hose on and spray the inside of the radiator to flush the build up out of the radiator. Move the hose in a spiral manner to get both sides of the radiator. Continue this process until the water coming out of the bottom of the radiator is clear again.

   • 6

     Secure the lower radiator hose back onto the radiator using the retaining clip that was previously removed.

Tips & Warnings

• The amount of water you will need depends on the degree of build up inside of the radiator. It is common to use 5 to 10 gallons of water or more. Constantly check the bucket below the radiator and empty as needed.

How to Get Replacement Toyota Keys

Most newer Toyota vehicles come with two keys--a door key (also known as a "regional key" or "valet key") and a remote key. If one or both of these keys is lost, contact a Toyota dealer so a replacement can be issued. The dealership can program any codes that are needed so the keys will work. Toyota wants to protect the owners of its vehicles, so before any replacement keys are made, you must show proof of ownership. The process is moderately easy, but does require some fees.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Vehicle identification (VIN) number
• Owner's manual
• Car title
• Driver's license
• Proof of insurance

1. Replace a regional/valet key without a remote.

   • 1

     Visit your local Toyota dealer. Provide the dealer with your VIN number and driver's license.

   • 2

     Establish proof of ownership. Provide the dealer with proof of insurance or the title of the vehicle.

   • 3

     Pay the service fee. As of 2009, a basic Toyota replacement key cost between $15 and $25, depending on the make, model and year of the vehicle.

   Replace an Immobilizer Key with Remote

   • 1

     Tow the vehicle to your local Toyota dealer. Provide the dealer with your vehicle identification number and proof of ownership. In most cases, the dealer can replace and program the key and remote within one visit. Many dealers maintain key and remote replacements on-site, eliminating the need to order replacement keys.

   • 2

     The dealer must program a new code into the new remote control. The programming process requires that the vehicle be on-site, so this step is 100 percent necessary. The dealer will complete the process, synching the new remote to the flash in the main computer of your vehicle.

   • 3

     Pay the service and programming fees. A service fee is required to replace the door key. An additional programming fee is also required to sync the chip inside the remote control to your vehicle. As of 2009, the service fee can range from $60 to $80 and the programming fee can range from $100 to several hundred dollars depending on the make, model and year of the vehicle and type of remote.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact Toyota directly for additional assistance. Go to the Toyota website or call (800) 331-4331.

• Pricing and service times may vary by dealership.

• It is not necessary to bring the vehicle to the dealership if you are only replacing the door key and have the VIN, owner's manual, proof of ownership and proof of ID.

How to Install a Toyota Camry Side View Mirror

Your Toyota Camry is a reliable and stylish car, and you try to keep it up the best you can. Just because a side view mirror breaks does not mean you have to invest in expensive parts and labor to reinstall one. You can purchase an aftermarket mirror of excellent quality from online sellers on sites such as eBay that look just like the original mirror and cost a fraction of what you'd pay for a new one. Installing a new side view mirror yourself is easy.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Flathead screwdriver 3/8-inch drive ratchet 3-inch-long 3/8-inch drive extension 10-mm socket Telescopic magnet

1. How to Install a Toyota Camry Side View Mirror

   • 1

     Roll down the window all the way on the door on which you're replacing the side view mirror.

   • 2

     Locate the interior mirror molding in the upper corner of the open window. It is triangular and may be black or the same color as the interior panels.

   • 3

     Pry the triangular molding off gently with the screwdriver. It's a snap-in-place molding and simply needs to be pried off. At the bottom of the molding is a 1/4-inch lip that inserts into the window cavity. Pry it loose from the door, and lift the lip out of the window cavity.

   • 4

     Locate the wire harness. Gently pull the wire out of the middle hole in the door. Use the screwdriver to assist you in pressing in the lock clip to unplug the harness from the mirror wire.

   • 5

     Remove the three foam rubber plugs from the door.

   • 6

     Locate the nuts inside the door cavity behind the foam rubber plugs. Remove them with the ratchet, extension and socket. Hold the telescopic magnet alongside the socket so the nut does not fall into the door cavity.

   • 7

     Remove the old mirror from the door. Most likely the old weather stripping will have sealed the mirror to the door and will require a little effort to remove, but don't overdo it and scratch the paint on the door.

   • 8

     Insert the new mirror and thread and tighten the nuts onto the mirror studs one at a time.

   • 9

     Plug the mirror wire back into the wire harness, and tuck it back into the door cavity.

   • 10

     Replace the foam rubber plugs.

   • 11

     Insert the interior molding lip into the window cavity, and press it against the door until it snaps into place.

How to Change the Starter in a Toyota 4Runner

Typical automotive starter with on-starter solenoid.

Most Toyota 4Runners have the starter motor mounted to one side of the engine along the lower area, as most vehicles do. However, the Toyota 4Runner with the 2UZ-FE engine has the starter mounted on top between the two cylinder banks. To change the unit on this model, you will have to remove the intake manifold. Keep in mind that this procedure applies to all 4Runners except the 2UZ-FE model.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Floor jack and jack stands Wrench set Ratchet and socket set

1. • 1

     Park your Toyota 4Runner in safe place and level surface. Open the hood and disconnect the black, negative battery cable.

   • 2

     Raise the vehicle using a floor jack and support it safely on 2 jack stands.

   • 3

     Remove the engine splash shield from underside the engine compartment if your particular model is equipped with one. Use a wrench or ratchet and socket.

   • 4

     Locate the starter motor under and to the right-hand side (passenger side) of the engine compartment. Disconnect the battery cable from the starter solenoid--the small cylinder on top of the starter motor--using a wrench or ratchet and socket. Then, unplug the electrical connector-thin wire-from the solenoid by pressing the small plastic tab at the connector and pulling the connector from the fitting.

   • 5

     Remove the mounting nuts or bolts securing the starter motor to the transmission bell housing using a wrench or ratchet and socket. Pull the motor towards the front of the vehicle and lift the starter away from the engine compartment.

   • 6

     Set the new starter motor in place, making sure the teeth on the starter motor pinion gear and the teeth on the flywheel mesh perfectly-otherwise the starter motor will grind against the flywheel and damage the unit. Install the mounting nuts or bolts by hand first. Tighten the nuts or bolts to 29 foot-pounds (39 Nm).

   • 7

     Plug the electrical connector and battery cable to the starter solenoid. Install the engine splash shield and lower the vehicle. Connect the black, negative battery cable and start the engine to make sure the new starter motor is working properly.

Tips & Warnings

• The exhaust system and engine reach very high temperatures. Whenever you have to work near the engine or exhaust system, make sure they are cool enough to the touch before starting to prevent skin burns and other possible injuries.

How to Troubleshoot a Toyota Starter

Troubleshooting a Toyota starter systems is usually very straightforward.

Flag this photo

Toyota starting systems typically require very little maintenance. So long as you keep the battery fully charged and the connections clean and tight, problems are rare. Troubleshooting is usually very straightforward: Any failure is either electrical or mechanical. A simple visual inspection will often reveal the likely cause. If not, continue with additional tests depending on the symptoms. This may include checking the starter motor current draw, voltage drop, operation and continuity. If the cause is still elusive, bench-test the starter motor and replace it if necessary.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Basic shop tools
• Battery tester
• Digital volt-ohm meter (DVOM)

Suggest Edits

1. Engine Will Not Crank

   • 1

     Check the state of battery charge. Recharge or replace if necessary.

   • 2

     Check the fusible link. Replace it if melted.

   • 3

     Check all connections. Clean and tighten if necessary.

   • 4

     Check ignition switch operation. Replace if necessary.

   • 5

     Check the operation of the magnetic switch, relay, neutral start switch or clutch switch. Replace as needed.

   • 6

     Check for mechanical problems with the engine. Repair if necessary.

   • 7

     Check for problems with the theft-deterrent system. Repair if necessary.

   Engine Cranks Too Slowly to Start

   • 1

     Check the state of battery charge. Recharge or replace if necessary.

   • 2

     Check all connections. Clean and tighten if necessary.

   • 3

     Test the starter motor. Repair or replace if necessary.

   • 4

     Check for mechanical problems with the engine. Repair if necessary.

   Starter Keeps Running, or Does Not Engage/Disengage Properly

   • 1

     Check the pinion or ring gear for wear or damage. Replace as needed.

   • 2

     Test the starter pull-in and hold-in coils. Replace as needed.

   • 3

     Check the ignition key for damage. Replace as needed.

   • 4

     Check the ignition switch and circuit components. Replace as needed.

   Starter Spins but Will Not Crank

   • 1

     Check the over-running clutch for proper operation. Both conventional and gear reduction starter motors are fitted with a one-way, over-running clutch to prevent damage to the starter when the engine starts. Replace if necessary.

   • 2

     Test the starter pull-in and hold-in coils. Replace as needed.

   • 3

     Check the pinion or ring gear for wear or damage. Replace as needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Before doing any testing for starter system issues, first visually inspect the battery, the starter, the ignition switch and the park/neutral position or clutch start switch.

• Take precautions to avoid possible injury or damage to the vehicle. Remove any jewelry that might contact battery terminals before beginning any inspection. Wear safety glasses and protective clothing.

How to Flush a Toyota Windom Radiator

Engine sludge can cause an engine to run improperly.

Engine sludge can build up in a Toyota Windom radiator, causing the veins that transfer fluid through the engine to clog up and the thermostat that regulates engine temperature to fail. To prevent this, flush the radiator. The result will be a radiator that can properly cool the fluid that is flowing through it, thus improving overall engine life.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Ramps
• 3-gallon bucket
• Pliers
• Large disposal container
• Hose
• Water

1. • 1

     Drive the Windom onto a set of front-end ramps and secure the parking brake. This allows easier access to the lower part of the radiator.

   • 2

     Place a 3-gallon bucket under the location where the lower radiator hose connects to the radiator. Squeeze the clamp that holds the hose onto the radiator with a pair of pliers and pull the radiator hose off the radiator. Allow the radiator fluid to drain into the bucket.

   • 3

     Remove the filler cap located on top of the radiator and place a hose that is connected to a water source into the radiator filler spout.

   • 4

     Remove the bucket full of radiator fluid and drain it into a large disposal container. Place the bucket back under the radiator to catch the flush water.

   • 5

     Turn the hose on and spray the inside of the radiator to flush the build up out of the radiator. Move the hose in a spiral manner to get both sides of the radiator. Continue this process until the water coming out of the bottom of the radiator is clear again.

   • 6

     Secure the lower radiator hose back onto the radiator using the retaining clip that was previously removed.

Tips & Warnings

• The amount of water you will need depends on the degree of build up inside of the radiator. It is common to use 5 to 10 gallons of water or more. Constantly check the bucket below the radiator and empty as needed.

How to Change the Starter in a Toyota 4Runner

Typical automotive starter with on-starter solenoid.

Most Toyota 4Runners have the starter motor mounted to one side of the engine along the lower area, as most vehicles do. However, the Toyota 4Runner with the 2UZ-FE engine has the starter mounted on top between the two cylinder banks. To change the unit on this model, you will have to remove the intake manifold. Keep in mind that this procedure applies to all 4Runners except the 2UZ-FE model.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Floor jack and jack stands Wrench set Ratchet and socket set

1. • 1

     Park your Toyota 4Runner in safe place and level surface. Open the hood and disconnect the black, negative battery cable.

   • 2

     Raise the vehicle using a floor jack and support it safely on 2 jack stands.

   • 3

     Remove the engine splash shield from underside the engine compartment if your particular model is equipped with one. Use a wrench or ratchet and socket.

   • 4

     Locate the starter motor under and to the right-hand side (passenger side) of the engine compartment. Disconnect the battery cable from the starter solenoid--the small cylinder on top of the starter motor--using a wrench or ratchet and socket. Then, unplug the electrical connector-thin wire-from the solenoid by pressing the small plastic tab at the connector and pulling the connector from the fitting.

   • 5

     Remove the mounting nuts or bolts securing the starter motor to the transmission bell housing using a wrench or ratchet and socket. Pull the motor towards the front of the vehicle and lift the starter away from the engine compartment.

   • 6

     Set the new starter motor in place, making sure the teeth on the starter motor pinion gear and the teeth on the flywheel mesh perfectly-otherwise the starter motor will grind against the flywheel and damage the unit. Install the mounting nuts or bolts by hand first. Tighten the nuts or bolts to 29 foot-pounds (39 Nm).

   • 7

     Plug the electrical connector and battery cable to the starter solenoid. Install the engine splash shield and lower the vehicle. Connect the black, negative battery cable and start the engine to make sure the new starter motor is working properly.

Tips & Warnings

• The exhaust system and engine reach very high temperatures. Whenever you have to work near the engine or exhaust system, make sure they are cool enough to the touch before starting to prevent skin burns and other possible injuries.

How to Bleed the Brakes on a Toyota Corolla

Bleed the Brakes on a Toyota Corolla

Air inside a braking system is a potentially disastrous problem. The loss of brake pressure caused by air in the system leads to reduced stopping power and will cause your brakes to perform poorly, which can lead to accidents. Bleeding out the brakes will restore brake pressure and greatly increase the stopping power of your car. Bleeding your brake lines should always be done alongside changing the brake fluid, which will be included in this guide.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Hydraulic jack
• Jack stands
• Tire iron
• Box wrench for bleeder bolt
• Turkey baster
• Clear plastic bottle
• Clear plastic tubing
• Brake fluid

1. • 1

     Use a jack to raise the car onto 4 jack stands.

   • 2

     Use a tire iron to remove the bolts on each wheel and then remove the wheels.

   • 3

     Loosen the bleeder bolts on each wheel with a box wrench, being careful not to open the bleeders yet. If the bleeders are very difficult to open, you may need to place some penetrating oil on them and leave them to sit for a few hours or even overnight.

   • 4

     Open the hood of the car and open the brake master cylinder reservoir.

   • 5

     Use a turkey baster to remove as much of the oil in the reservoir as possible.

   • 6

     Clean the inside of the reservoir with a clean rag.

   • 7

     Fill the reservoir with new brake fluid and close it.

   • 8

     Place a piece of clear plastic tubing around the bleed valve of a wheel, starting with the right-rear wheel.

   • 9

     Place the other end of the tubing into a clear plastic bottle that is 1/4th full of clean brake fluid. Make sure the tubing is submerged and stays submerged in the fluid.

   • 10

     Have someone apply pressure onto the brake pedal while you open the bleeder bolt slightly.

   • 11

     Have them press the brake down about 3/4ths of the way and hold it, in the meantime the old brake fluid will be flowing down the plastic tubing.

   • 12

     Close the bleeder bolt with the wrench as soon as the flow of fluid stops, then have your helper release the brake pedal.

   • 13

     Continue doing this until clean fluid flows from the bleeder valve, making sure to refill the master cylinder reservoir every 3 times you complete the process of Steps 10 through 12.

   • 14

     Repeat Steps 8 through 13 for every wheel, starting from the right-rear wheel, then going to the left-rear wheel, the right-front wheel and finally the left-front wheel.

   • 15

     Top off the master cylinder reservoir.

   • 16

     Bolt the wheels back into the place.

   • 17

     Lower the car off of the jack stands.

Tips & Warnings

• Place a 3/4th inch thick piece of wood underneath the brake pedal so that the person helping you can keep sustained pressure without having to worry about pressing down too far on the brake pedal. Slightly loosen each lug nut on the wheels before lifting the car off of the ground.

• Take extra care whenever lifting a car off the ground, making sure to use the jack stands as directed. The bleeder bolts may take a lot of pressure to loosen but are also susceptible to breaking, so use controlled force and penetrating oil to loosen them. Be careful when dealing with brake fluid, as it will easily remove paint from your car.

How to Change the Cabin Air Filter in a Toyota

Many automobile makers are putting cabin air filters in later models of their cars and trucks. A cabin air filter removes dust and other debris, such as pollen, from air passing through the vents. Toyota has made changing the cabin air filter a fairly quick and painless process.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. • 1

     Open the glove box and remove any papers and other items you might keep stored there. Locate the small screw on the lower right side to which the stop arm of the glove box is attached. Remove the screw.

   • 2

     Slip the loop of the arm off the cylinder after the screw is removed. This will free the entire glove box. Squeeze each side of the glove box to allow it to be pulled past the tabs and remove the entire compartment.

   • 3

     Locate the cabin air filter housing behind the glove box. Squeeze tabs on the plastic cover toward each other and pull off. Pull the filter frame straight out. Keep the filter face up to prevent any debris caught in the filter from dropping onto the floor or the seat of the vehicle.

   • 4

     Take out the old filter from the filter frame and insert the new filter. Make sure the UP arrow is facing up toward you, and that the sides of the filter are slipped under the tabs on either side of the frame.

   • 5

     Snap the plastic cover back onto the filter frame. Hook the glove box back onto its hinges. Squeeze the sides again and push the box back into place until the tabs catch behind the dash. Reattach the loop of the stop arm onto the cylinder and replace the screw.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are changing the cabin air filter on a Toyota Highlander, you can remove the loop of the stop arm from the cylinder without removing the screw.

• Make sure your Toyota model and year is equipped with a cabin air filter and that you have purchased the correct replacement filter before going through the work of removing the glove box.

• Replace cabin air filters every 15,000 miles or so. Remove the filter and shake it out often to clean debris between replacements.

• On late-model Toyota Highlanders (2006 and after), the glove box drops out of the way after the stop arm is detached to allow access to the cabin filter frame without removing the entire compartment.

How to Adjust the Headlights in a Toyota Camry

If you change a bulb on the headlights of your Toyota Camry, you might have to adjust them. While Toyota recommends you take your Toyota Camry to an authorized service station for this task, you can adjust the headlights at home.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Tape measure
• Masking tape
• Phillips screwdriver or Torx bit

1. • 1

     Remove any excess cargo you don't normally carry in your car and check the pressure in your tires. Make sure your tank is at least half-full.

   • 2

     Find a level surface 15 to 25 feet away from a wall or garage door and park your Toyota Camry. Set your emergency brake as an extra safety measure. If you plan to adjust your headlights outside, wait until dark.

   • 3

     Locate the headlight adjustments screws. The vertical adjustment screw should be on top, and the horizontal adjustment screw on the side of each headlight. You may need to remove the bezel to see them. Don't confuse the mounting screws with the adjustment screws, or you might undo your entire headlight assembly.

   • 4

     Measure from the center of the headlight to the ground and mark this measurement with masking tape on the wall. Mark the center point for your Toyota Camry as well.

   • 5

     Turn on the headlights, but watch the time so you don't drain your battery.

   • 6

     Use a Phillips screwdriver or Torx bit to adjust the screws. Adjust each headlight individually. As you turn the screws, monitor the trajectory path on the wall. The low beams should be within a 2-inch variance of the center mark, and the high beams should be in the center of the mark.

Tips & Warnings

• You may need to look under the hood to find the adjustment screws on newer Toyota Camry cars.

• Composite lights that Toyota bolted to the frame won't have adjustment screws. To adjust these, use washers on the mounting screws.

1997 Toyota Camry: How to Change the Timing Belt

The timing belt keeps your car running smoohly.

If your '97 Camry is backfiring, sluggish or idles poorly then your timing belt may be bad. A timing belt ensures that the camshaft and crankshaft valves work together with the pistons, and having a broken or damaged timing belt can be hazardous to your car and very costly. Making sure that you have a properly working timing belt before things go very wrong can save you a lot of time and money in the end.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Timing belt
• Various wrenches
• Socket set
• Spark plug socket
• Pry bar
• Ratchet
• Extension

1. Remove the timing belt

   • 1

     Disconnect the negative battery cable. Lift your car up with a jack and support it with jack stands. Remove the lower engine cover as well as the right inner fender cover. When you're done with that lower the car back to the ground.

   • 2

     From the top of the car, remove the bolts holding the alternator in place then pull out the alternator by hand. Take out the coolant reservoir.

   • 3

     Remove the serpentine belt by first removing the pivot bolt on the left corner of the engine block. Then loosen the tensioner adjustment bolt which is located under the tensioner pulley. Pull off the tensioner belt.

   • 4

     Raise the car back up and and take off the right engine mount. Keep the car raised.

   • 5

     Get your spark plug socket and remove the spark plugs.

   • 6

     Take off the timing belt cover. Line up the crankshaft pulley groove with the oil pump by rotating the engine to the right. Make sure the camshaft pulleys line up with the rear belt covers. You may have to rotate the engine.

   • 7

     Remove the crankshaft pulley bolt. Remove the tensioner and dust boot. Remove the bolts holding the lower timing belt cover on. Take the cover off.

   Installing the timing belt

   • 1

     Clean the pulleys of any dirt, oil or water.

   • 2

     Align the new belt's front mark with the crankshaft pulley's mark. Also align the timing belts installation mark with the camshaft pulley.

   • 3

     Install the pulleys. The easiest way to install them is, crankshaft, water pump, left camshaft, No. 2 idler, right camshaft and the No.1 idler.

   • 4

     Compress the tensioner until the push rod and housing holes align. Reconnect the dust boot and tighten the tension bolts up to 20 foot pounds.

   • 5

     Rotate the crankshaft and line up its groove with the oil pump. The timing marks on the camshaft and the marks on the rear timing cover should also match.

   • 6

     Put the timing belt guide in and tighten the bolts to 21 foot pounds. Replace and tighten the upper timing belt cover bolts to 74 inch pounds. Replace the lower timing belt cover bolts to 74 inch pounds.

   • 7

     Reinstall the spark plugs. Put back on the right engine mount, and reinstall the serpentine belt. To reinstall the serpentine belt follow the instructions in reverse on removing the belt. Put the coolant reservoir back in. Reinstall the alternator.

   • 8

     Put the inner fender back on along with the engine cover. Lower the car and reattach the negative battery cable. Start the car to make sure that the timing belt is working properly.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure that when you take bolts and parts out of the car you keep them together and someplace where they won't get lost.

How to Replace a 1997 Toyota Paseo Brake Light Bulb

You will need a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the casing for the brake light.

The Toyota Paseo is a sporty compact car that was modeled after the Tercel and had a production run from 1992 through 1997. The Paseo was considered smaller and less expensive than the Toyota Celica but with more horsepower and firmer suspension than the Tercel. The 1997 Paseo was also offered as a convertible with a manual folding top and heated glass rear window. Although maintenance on most vehicles can be tedious, the 1997 Paseo is actually quite simple to work on with only a few basic tools.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Replacement bulb
• Clean cloth

1. • 1

     Open the trunk of the vehicle.

   • 2

     Pull back the carpet in the bed of the trunk.

   • 3

     Locate the back tail light assembly. Remove the screws on the back of this assembly, turning them counterclockwise with a Phillips head screwdriver while holding the tail light assembly in place.

   • 4

     Remove the tail light assembly by pulling it straight out of its mounted position.

   • 5

     Place your hand on the brake light bulb that needs to be replaced and rotate it counterclockwise to remove it.

   • 6

     Hold the the replacement bulb with a clean cloth and place it into the brake light socket, rotating it clockwise until it's secured in its socket.

   • 7

     Replace the tail light assembly by reinstalling all of the screws, turning them clockwise with the Phillips head screwdriver.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use a clean cloth when replacing a bulb in the tail light assembly. Skin oils can shorten the bulb's life.

How to Change a Toyota Corolla Front Side Marker Lights

Typical side marker light--the Corolla's looks much different.

The side marker lights on the Toyota Corolla help provide additional visibility when you are driving, particularly when make changing lanes. Your side marker lights are set up to illuminate at the same time your blinker does. This allows drivers around you to know when you are changing lanes beside them. Changing the side marker light on your Corolla is simple and only takes a few minutes.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Small Phillips head screwdriver
• Sylvania bulb (3157A or equivalent)

1. • 1

     Use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the small screws mounting the front side marker light lens (one on each side).

   • 2

     Grasp the lens, and then pull it towards the back of the vehicle and out to bring out the lens and bulb assembly.

   • 3

     Depress the tabs on the outside of the wiring harness to remove the wiring harness. Twist the bulb and socket assembly counterclockwise to release it from the lens.

   • 4

     Pull the side marker bulb out straight. Push down the new side marker bulb until it clips.

   • 5

     Reattach the socket assembly and twist it clockwise to lock it. Reconnect the wiring harness.

   • 6

     Test the bulb before mounting the lens and assembly back onto the vehicle. Turn the ignition on and activate the blinker on the appropriate side of the vehicle.

   • 7

     Reattach the side marker assembly and replace the screws.

Tips & Warnings

• If your side marker does not work, it is likely you have a circuit or wiring problem. See your local Toyota dealer for assistance.

• Make sure the bulb you purchase is compatible with the Corolla; if not, it may not work.