How to Remove a Door Panel on a Toyota Tundra

Toyota Tundra door panels need to be removed to access the door panel lights or speakers behind the door panel, or to add a security system, keyless entry or a replacement window. Body shops or electronic installers charge extra for labor to remove the door panels, but you can remove the door panels from your Toyota Tundra yourself by following a few relatively simple steps.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Phillips head screwdriver Flat head screwdriver

1. • 1

     Remove the felt piece and small screw from inside the door handle, using a screwdriver.

   • 2

     Pull the door handle and remove the plastic cover and small screw behind it, using a screwdriver.

   • 3

     Pull carefully on the electric window button housing. Pry up on each side until it pops out. Disconnect the two sets of wires by pulling the white plastic connectors out.

   • 4

     Pry the triangle-shaped plastic cover at the top of the door panel that covers the bolts for the outside mirror. Just below this area there is a screw on the door panel that needs to be removed. The screw must be pushed in near the center and then it will pop out.

   • 5

     Move to the bottom of the door and begin to pull the panel out toward you. There are plastic clips holding the door panel in place around the outside edges of the panel. Pull until you hear these clips popping out. Lift the door up to get the lip off the top edge of the door. Do not let the panel go since it is still connected in other places.

   • 6

     Disconnect the wiring for the light inside the door. Reach between the door panel and the door to disconnect the wiring connectors. Reach down and unhook the door cables. Pull the green and white plastic pieces out (they simply pop out when you pull on them) and then lift out the silver ball attached to the white plastic piece.

   • 7

     Pull the entire door panel away from the door.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a small bowl or container to keep hardware and screws in one place.

• Never pull or jerk on the door panel as this can cause clips and other parts to break, making them unable to be used to reinstall the door panel.

How to Clean a Toyota Land Cruiser EGR Valve

A Toyota Land Cruiser's EGR valve can become clogged over time, and will need to be cleaned. The EGR valve, also known as the exhaust gas recirculation valve, is a crucial part of a Toyota's engine air intake. The EGR valve directs the engine's exhaust into the manifold, which cools down the engine air; the process prevents the vehicle from overheating. Cleaning the EGR valve is very important to ensure that your engine works efficiently.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Socket wrench
• Carburetor cleaner
• Rag

1. • 1

     Locate the EGR valve on the engine intake manifold. Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for the exact location (see Resources below).

   • 2

     Loosen and remove the bolts that secure the EGR valve in place by using a socket wrench. Remove the EGR valve from the manifold.

   • 3

     Clean the EGR valve cover and inside of the valve using carburetor cleaner. Use a wire brush and rag to clean any loose dirt. Clean the valve until it moves up and down smoothly.

   • 4

     Spray carburetor cleaner onto the valve mount where the EGR valve sits; also spray cleaner into the two holes under the valve mount. Clean the mount and holes with a rag.

   • 5

     Insert the EGR valve back into place on the valve mount. Replace and tighten each bolt with the socket wrench.

Tips & Warnings

• Allow the Toyota Land Cruiser to cool down for at least 20 minutes before beginning any work on the vehicle.

How to Change Toyota Tundra Brakes

The Toyota Tundra's braking system consists of brake pads and the rotors that provide a smooth surface against which the pads are squeezed. The surface of the rotors should be smooth to provide a consistent platform for the brake pads in order for the brakes to perform consistently and effectively. Toyota recommends replacing the brake pads every 40,000 miles. During the pad replacement, check the rotors for damage or scoring. If heavy scoring is found, replace the rotors at once.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Tire iron or lug wrench
• Jack
• Jack stands
• 10 mm socket wrench
• Hammer
• Rotor
• Brake cleaner
• Wire brush
• Cloth towel
• Brake grease
• Channel-lock pliers or C-clamp
• Brake pads
• Funnel
• Brake fluid

1. • 1

     Park to Tundra on a level surface and apply the parking brake. Turn the engine off and pull the hood release lever located on the driver's side of the truck, under the dashboard. Move to the front of the vehicle, lift and support the hood.

   • 2

     Remove the master cylinder cap, which is to the left of the engine, near the back. Lay the cap on top of the master cylinder container. Loosen the lug nuts with a lug wrench or the tire iron from the Toyota wheel maintenance kit.

   • 3

     Lift the truck with the jack and place jack stands under the wheel axles. Remove the lug nuts and take the wheels off. Remove the caliper slide pins with a 10 mm socket wrench. Lift the caliper from the brake assembly and lay it carefully on top of the steering arm above the brakes. Be careful not to strain the connected brake line.

   • 4

     Slide the two brake pads from the inner sides of the brake caliper. Remove the brake rotor from the wheel bolts by pulling it straight from the wheel bolts and the wheel hub. Tap the center section of the rotor with a hammer if it is stuck to the steering knuckle or rusted to the wheel bolts.

   • 5

     Clean the area behind the rotor and the wheel bolts with brake cleaner and a wire brush. Clean the new rotor with a cloth towel and brake cleaner to remove the packaging oils. Slide the disc onto the wheel bolts and push it flat against the steering knuckle.

   • 6

     Squeeze the caliper pistons into the side of the caliper with a pair of channel-lock pliers or a C-clamp. Do not damage the rubber sleeve surrounding the piston; the sheath keeps moisture from the pistons and prevents seizing from rust.

   • 7

     Slide the new brake pads onto the sides of the caliper. Replace the caliper onto the rotor and screw on the caliper pins. Remount the wheel and screw on the lug nuts.

   • 8

     Lift the Tundra with the jack and remove the jack stands from under the vehicle. Lower the Toyota's tires to the ground and tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench or tire iron.

   • 9

     Slowly press the brake pedal to the floor. Release the pedal and repeat the depressions until the pedal response stiffens to a normal response level. Move back to the engine bay. Remove the master cylinder cap and place a funnel inside the container. Fill the reservoir with brake fluid as necessary. Remove the funnel and secure the cap on the master cylinder. Close the Tundra's hood.

How to Replace the Battery in a Toyota Highlander

As one of the first crossover SUVs, the Toyota Highlander has been popular since it debuted in 2001. It has the cargo-carrying space of an SUV with the handling of a car. While Toyotas have a reputation of good quality, you will need to replace the battery after about 5 years. Check the battery power with a battery-testing meter, or replace it if you see a white chalky substance on the top.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• New 12-volt battery
• Battery terminal puller
• Wire brushes
• Socket wrench
• Old rags
• Gloves
• Goggles

1. • 1

     Locate the battery easily on the driver's side just behind the headlight.

   • 2

     Remove the cables from the battery terminals with a battery terminal puller. Take off the negative cable first.

   • 3

     Lift the battery out of the compartment. Safely dispose of the used battery at an auto parts store, which will often take it as a trade-in, or bring it to a recycling center.

   • 4

     Use a wire brush to clean the tray that holds the battery. Wipe it off with a damp cloth and let it dry before replacing new battery. Dispose of the rags since they're covered with acid.

   • 5

     Clean the insides of the connector cables with a pointed wire brush. Keep your gloves on at all times to avoid getting acid on your hands and wear glasses or goggles to protect your eyes.

   • 6

     Place the new battery on the battery tray. Attach the correct cable on each terminal and tighten securely with pliers or socket wrench.

How to Replace the Battery in a Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma is a reliable mid-size pick-up truck that has been on the market since the late 1990s. You will need to replace the battery if you see a white chalky substance on the top of it. You also can test the battery with a battery-testing meter. Toyota recommends replacing the battery with a genuine Toyota battery, which you can find in the Resources below.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• New 12-volt battery
• Goggles
• Flathead screwdriver
• Socket wrench
• Old rags
• Battery terminal puller
• Wire brushes
• Gloves

1. • 1

     Find the battery on the driver's side, just behind the headlight.

   • 2

     Remove the metal bar that holds the battery in place with a flathead screwdriver.

   • 3

     Take off the cables from the battery terminals with a battery terminal puller. Remove the negative cable first.

   • 4

     Lift the battery out of the compartment. Safely dispose of the used battery at an auto parts store, which will often take it as a trade-in, or bring it to a recycling center.

   • 5

     Use a wire brush to clean the tray that holds the battery. Wipe it off with a damp cloth and let it dry before replacing new battery. Dispose of the rags since they're covered with acid.

   • 6

     Clean the insides of the connector cables with a pointed wire brush. Keep your gloves on at all times to avoid getting acid on your hands and wear glasses or goggles to protect your eyes.

   • 7

     Place the new battery on the battery tray. Attach the correct cable on each terminal and tighten securely with pliers or socket wrench. Securely replace the metal bar.

How to Remove a Toyota Lug Nut

Whether removing the tire to change a flat, replace brake pads or work on suspension components, the first step is to remove the lugs nuts from your Toyota. The process is not difficult but it does require some planning so you at least have the right tool for the job. While most Toyota vehicles include a lug wrench when the car is manufactured, you still may not have one in the vehicle. The time to check is not when you are on the side of the road, so be sure to check your car or truck sooner than later.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Lug wrench
• Jack

1. • 1

     Park your car or truck on level ground. A driveway or parking lot is better than the side of an interstate but sometimes you do not have an option. Try to park on flat ground if possible.

   • 2

     Retrieve the lug wrench from the storage area in your Toyota; it may be in the trunk, behind the seat in a truck or under the cargo area in SUV models.

   • 3

     Place the lug wrench on the lug nut. Check the fit, making sure there is no play or movement between the wrench and the nut.

   • 4

     Turn the wrench counterclockwise, loosening the lug nut from the wheel stud. If you are removing a single lug nut, continue turning counterclockwise until the lug nut is off the wheel stud. If you are removing all of the lug nuts, you will need to use a jack and lift the tire off the ground.

How to Make the Toyota Radio Louder in the Tundra

Toyota Tundra owners who wish to increase the volume output of their factory radios have a couple of options. You can add an amplifier to your stereo system, you can upgrade the speakers, or you can do both and create a truly powerful sound system. First, make sure that the amplifier and speakers are compatible--meaning that the speakers can safely handle the amp's signal strength. After choosing the components, you can trust the installation to an audio professional, or you can do it yourself and save the cost of labor.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Phillips-head screwdriver
• 10 mm socket wrench
• Amplifier wiring kit
• Wiring harness adapter
• Speaker wire harness
• Rubber grommets
• Drill
• Trim panel removal tool

1. • 1

     Disconnect the negative battery cable from the negative lead post of the battery. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to loosen the cable's clamp. Remove the clamp from the negative lead post and rest it away from the battery.

   • 2

     Connect the amplifier ring terminal (from the amp wiring kit) to the positive battery lead. Connect the power cable (also from the kit) to the ring terminal. Drill an opening from the engine compartment through the firewall and into the inner cabin of the Tundra. Place a rubber grommet in the new opening to protect the wiring. Route the cable into the cabin.

   • 3

     Remove the Toyota's stereo. Pull the lower panel (beneath the climate controls) by hand away from the dash. Remove the trim panel to the left of the stereo by hand. Pull the dash panel surrounding the climate controls away from the dash. Let the panel hang; there is no need to disconnect the climate control wiring. Remove the two bolts on the bottom corners of the stereo mounting bracket with a 10 mm socket wrench. Pull the stereo from its dock. Disconnect the wiring to the back of the stereo by pulling the plastic wire binders, not the wires themselves. Connect the wire groups to a wiring harness adapter and connect the harness leads to the stereo. Connect the signal cable and turn-on lead (from the amplifier wiring kit) to the appropriate leads on the wiring harness adapter. Route the cables to the floor of the Tundra. Replace the stereo into the dash. Replace the two 10 mm bolts. Snap the trim panel below the stereo in place. Replace the side panel onto the dash by hand. Replace the lower panel (below the climate control panel) by hand.

   • 4

     Remove the trim panels at the door openings on both sides of the truck. Lay the amplifier's power cable (from the battery) along one side of the Tundra, beneath the carpet, to the location of the amplifier (ideally beneath the rear seat or behind the rearward-most seat). Lay the signal cable and turn-on lead along the other side, also beneath the carpeting. Replace the trim panels to re-secure the carpeting. Connect the cables to the amplifier. Run speaker wire from the amplifier to the speakers. Use the path established by the rear speakers.

   • 5

     Remove the door panels with a trim panel removal tool. Remove the panel for the window and lock controls. Disconnect the connections to the controls by hand. Pry the door panels from the doors. Remove the four screws holding the speakers in their wells with a Phillips-head screwdriver. Disconnect the speaker wiring from each speaker. Connect the speaker wiring to a speaker wiring harness. Connect the speaker wiring harness to the new speaker. Replace the speaker into the speaker wells. Use the same screws that were used to hold the old speaker in place, to secure the new speakers. Replace the door panels by hand with moderate force around the perimeter. Reconnect the lock and window control wiring and fasten the smaller door trim panel to the door.

   • 6

     Replace the negative battery cable clamp around the battery's negative lead post. Tighten the clamp with a Phillips-head screwdriver.

Tips & Warnings

• When choosing speakers, if your budget allows, select from the multichannel models. They separate the sound (low, mid, and high) to offer more volume and a cleaner sound.

How to Get the Best Gas Mileage from your Toyota Prius

If you own a Toyota Prius, you can get the best gas mileage by following these easy steps. In fact, you should be able to get at least 50 MPG on a regular basis. So, read, drive, get better gas mileage, and save with your Prius!!!

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Toyota Prius
• Driver's License

1. • 1

     Make sure that you Prius is regularly maintained. Because it is a hybrid, be careful when taking it anywhere but the dealership for work under the hood. However, when taking your car to the dealership for maintenance, know what to pay the dealership for and what you might same money on by going elsewhere. For example, you might be able to get tires rotated for free somewhere else. Also, the filters will be cheaper if you buy them from a parts house. They can be put in easily and the directions are in the owner's guide. Also, keep the right tire pressure in your tires. Good maintenance will help get you better gas mileage.

   • 2

     Don't speed. The Prius gets the best gas mileage at around 60 miles per hour on the freeway. If you drive 70 plus, you will really notice a drop in mileage. In city driving keep the miles per hour lower. If you are in stop and go traffic, do not stop and go constantly. Find a pace (in stop and go traffic that may be around 5 to 15 MPH) that will allow you to drive steady. If you are driving at that rate, your Prius should run on battery only. You may go quite a way in stop and go traffic without even using any gas at all!

   • 3

     Drive at a steady rate of speed (unless you are on country highways with lengthy uphill runs -then see step 4) Going on and off the gas pedal will definitely make a big difference in your MPG.

   • 4

     Use gravity to help reduce mileage. If you are driving on an in-town freeway then you might not need to do this. However, on country highways with lengthy uphill runs, you might want to allow your car to loose a few miles per gallon on the uphill run and then let it make it up on the downhill. Gravity is free so why not make it work for you.

   • 5

     When you do have to use the heat or A/C, use the auto temperature control and set it to the highest temp you need in the summer and the lowest temp you need in the winter. That setting is an automatic setting and will only cool or heat to the temperature you have set. This will help reduce the energy that goes into heating and cooling your car and will save on your gas mileage.

   • 6

     Watch your starts and stops. Never take off fast from a dead stop. Always ease into the takeoff and then back off of the gas and let your car coast s much as possible. When stopping, never come to a fast stop if it can be avoided. Always coast into your stops. This saves me more gas than any of the other steps!

   • 7

     Keep an eye on the gas mileage average and the bar to the right that shows the gas mileage at that very second. They will make you aware of what actions lower the mileage or raise it.

Tips & Warnings

• Leave a few minutes early so that you will have plenty of time and can drive slower. The speed really is a big factor in gas savings.

How to Repair a Toyota Corolla Ignition Cylinder

All cars rely on a lock cylinder that works with the ignition switch to fire the engine. If there is any problem with the cylinder itself, you need to replace the cylinder to repair the ignition system. The removal and installation process of a Corolla's ignition cylinder can vary; some models have added features like an engine immobilizer system. This can depend on the year your car was made. Replacing the cylinder will mean you must change keys also.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Wrench
• Screwdriver
• Punch
• Lock cylinder

1. • 1

     Disconnect the Corolla's negative battery cable: Loosen the black cable's clamp nut with a wrench to separate the clamp from the negative terminal.

   • 2

     Remove the trim covers from the steering column; the cover is in two pieces, with the screws on the underside of the lower cover. Skip to Step 5 if the Corolla doesn't have an engine immobilizer system.

   • 3

     Pry off the plastic shroud around the ignition cylinder gently and disconnect the electrical connector. Lift up the shroud's edge off the locating tab just enough to slip it off the cylinder.

   • 4

     Pry the illumination ring lightly off he front end of the cylinder and then remove the unlock arming switch for the immobilizer system.

   • 5

     Turn the ignition switch to the "accessory" position.

   • 6

     Insert a small screwdriver or punch into the hole within the cylinder housing, then pull out the cylinder with the key inside it.

   Installation

   • 1

     Press on the retaining pin on the replacement cylinder, insert the key into the cylinder and insert the cylinder into the housing until its pin engages with the locating hole.

   • 2

     Turn the cylinder and switch back to the lock position.

   • 3

     Reconnect the arming switch, illumination ring and electrical connector/shroud for the immobilizer system if needed.

   • 4

     Reconnect the steering column covers with their screws and your screwdriver.

   • 5

     Reconnect the negative battery cable.

How to Draw a Toyota Supra Body Kit

Designing a body kit is easy with the right tools.

Drawing a body kit for a Toyota Supra will be much like drawing the actual car. You will use such tools as pen and ink, digitizer tablets and drawing software, or 3D modeling programs. Using a digitizing tablet and a drawing program will produce professional looking results with the least effort. Artists using traditional techniques can produce the same results but not without extra work.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. • 1

     Load a reference image you work from into your drawing program as a background layer. The reference image is to ensure accurate design and will increase the quality of your work. If you are working traditionally, use tracing paper or another technique to outline the car and transfer it to your media.

   • 2

     Open a new working layer on top of your background and set it to about 80 percent opacity. Draw directly on this layer. The reference layer is only there to ensure that the seams and edges of the body panels are in the right locations. It will also help you keep track of ground clearance and width when you add ground effects.

     Traditional artists can transfer the image directly onto their media or tape the tracing paper so that it will overlay the drawing.

   • 3

     Draw in any aftermarket accessories you intend to add, such as custom rims and tires, headlights, exhaust systems, mufflers, spoilers, window tinting, or other mods. Reference these, too, so you know what the finished car will look like.

   • 4

     Convert the car to a body kit by redrawing the panels as if they were laying flat on the ground. You can either use a graph to reconstruct the individual panels or you can freehand the panels. Check your work with a ruler to ensure that the separate panels have the same proportions as the originals.

Tips & Warnings

• Ensure that your work is accurate by using references. Look for photos or diagrams that show how each part is shaped to ensure that your art is reasonably close.

• Start by drawing a Supra the way you want it to look and then make the body panels. This will ensure fit and a coherent design.

• If you work from a classic theme, be sure that your idea is sufficiently innovative to protect yourself from patent or copyright infringement.

How to Disable a Seatbelt Alarm on a Toyota

Most newer vehicles are equipped with seatbelt warning chimes. Toyotas are no exception. The seat belt warning chime can easily be disabled. Disabling the alarm is not illegal, in fact, the instructions can be found in your owner's manual. Follow the procedure outlined to disable the seatbelt alarm in most 2004 and newer Toyota vehicles.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. • 1

     Insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the "On" position. Do not crank the engine.

   • 2

     Press the small knob on your instrument cluster to cycle between your trip odometer and your odometer reading. Press the knob until it displays "ODO." Turn the ignition to the "Off" position.

   • 3

     Turn the ignition back to the "On" position and hold the small knob for 10 to 15 seconds. After the time has passed, put on your seat belt (while holding the knob).

   • 4

     Release the trip odometer knob to finish. Your instrument cluster will display "B off."

Tips & Warnings

• Perform the exact procedure again to enable the seat belt warning.

• In many states, wearing your seatbelt is required by law.

How to Replace 1999 Toyota Rav4 EGR Valve

The EGR valve on the 1994 Toyota Rav4 recirculates exhaust gases back into the combustion chamber. This is an effort to meet Environmental Protection Agency pollution regulations. If the EGR clogs, the engine will run at a low idle and even stall on occasion. The "check engine" light could even come on to tell you there is an issue with the vehicle. When you have an issue with your EGR valve, you must remove it so you can replace it with a working one.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Wrench set

1. • 1

     Locate the EGR exhaust recirculation tube bolted to the driver's side exhaust manifold. The tube is silver and covered with a black fire retardant fabric. Follow the tube upward until you locate the EGR valve. The tube bolts to the EGR valve. Use the replacement EGR valve for further visual reference.

   • 2

     Remove the flange nut that secures the recirculation tube to the side of the EGR valve using a wrench. Pull the tube free of the EGR valve.

   • 3

     Unplug the wiring harness connected to the side of the EGR valve.

   • 4

     Remove the two bolts that secure the EGR valve to the mounting bracket and discard the old EGR valve.

   • 5

     Secure the new EGR valve to the mounting bracket using the socket and ratchet.

   • 6

     Plug the wiring harness back into the side of the EGR valve.

   • 7

     Line the recirculation tube up with the port on the EGR valve and thread the flange nut onto the EGR valve with your fingers. Tighten the nut using your wrench.

How to Change the Windshield Washer Fluid in a Toyota Camry

If you've recently purchased a Toyota Camry, you'll know that it's an efficient, reliable and stylish car. Without following proper maintenance, however, it won't perform up to Toyota's lofty standards. To keep its windshield shiny and clean, make sure your Camry has plenty of windshield washer fluid.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Funnel
• Windshield washer fluid

1. • 1

     Turn the car off and remove the keys from the ignition.

   • 2

     Find and pull the hood release latch located beneath the steering column and instrument panel.

   • 3

     Step out of your Camry and find the auxiliary release latch located beneath its hood. Tug up on the latch to open the hood.

   • 4

     Use the prop rod from the edge of the engine compartment to hold the hood open. Make sure the rod is securely fastened against the hood before continuing.

   • 5

     Locate the windshield washer fluid reservoir beneath the engine coolant reservoir in the bottom left part of the engine compartment.

   • 6

     Pull the reservoir cap open and place a funnel into the opening.

   • 7

     Pour the additional washer fluid into the reservoir until it's nearly full. Then, top it off with a few drops of fluid to make sure it's completely full.

   • 8

     Remove the funnel, close the reservoir cap and lower the hood.

Tips & Warnings

• Use windshield washer fluid with antifreeze protection if you regularly drive your Camry in temperatures below 40 degrees F.

• Toyota recommends using a washer fluid with antifreeze protection, but you can also use water instead of a brand-name fluid.

How to Install a Radio in a Toyota Pickup

Installing a radio in a Toyota pickup is relatively easy once you have the unit removed. While there are many aftermarket radios to choose from, the most important thing to consider is how yours will be used. If all you do is listen to the radio, then a standard-sized unit will do. If you want advanced features such as MP3 and navigation capabilities, then you'll be looking at more expensive units. Make sure the model you purchase is specifically designed to fit in your Toyota truck.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• New radio unit
• Screwdriver

1. • 1

     Plug the antenna cable plug into the back of the radio. The jack in the back of the radio unit should be marked for the antenna. The antenna plug looks like an inverted or "female" A/V plug that you'll need to connect to the antenna input jack on the radio.

   • 2

     Connect the six-pin connector from the factory wiring harness to the six-pin slot in the back of the radio.

   • 3

     Slide the radio unit into the DIN slot on the dash.

   • 4

     Thread the four screws that hold the radio to the DIN cage and tighten the screws. There is a screw in each corner of the radio.

   • 5

     Snap the radio trim bezel over the radio to lock it into place.

Tips & Warnings

• For specific information about installing a radio in your Toyota pickup, consult the particular vehicle's manual (see Resources).

How to Replace the Wiper Blades on a Toyota Highlander

When you are on the open road, it can be overwhelming when you're suddenly facing adverse weather conditions. Whether it's rain, sleet, snow or any combination of the three, you need to have a good set of wiper blades. In just a few minutes, you can have your new wiper blades installed and be ready for the open road.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Toyota Highlander wiper blade replacement kit

1. • 1

     Pull on the wiper arm until it raises and locks in the service position. The wiper arm will naturally stand once you raise it past a certain point.

   • 2

     Locate the clip on the underside of the wiper arm (rotating the blade slightly will help.)

   • 3

     Press the clip in as you simultaneously pull the old wiper blade off the wiper arm. You may discard the old blade.

   • 4

     Align the new wiper blade with the wiper arm track. Slide it along the track until you hear a "click."

   • 5

     Repeat this process with the other wiper blade to complete the replacement of wiper blades on your Toyota Highlander.

   • 6

     Return the wiper arms to their normal position against the windshield.

Tips & Warnings

• Some people like to press the clip in on the wiper arm using a screwdriver.

• Many Toyota models, including the Highlander have different sized blades on the passenger and driver side. Make sure you align the correct blade during installation.

• You can test your newly installed wiper blades by turning the battery of your car engine on and pressing the washer fluid button. The washer fluid will flood the windshield followed by several swipes from your new blades. If the windshield is streak free and clean, then they've been properly installed.

How to Diagnose Vibrations on a 1997 Toyota T100

If your 1997 Toyota T100 is vibrating, it's normally not a good sign. Vibration can by caused by loose bolts or misaligned or broken components. It can also be caused by worn components that need attention right away. Replacement parts for your T100 can normally be found at an auto-parts store, but before you replace anything, it's a good idea to troubleshoot some of the more common problems first so that you don't start fixing things on your truck that aren't broken.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. • 1

     Turn on your engine and open the hood. If your engine is vibrating, and you can see and hear it, it may be a loose or broken engine mount. Look at, but do not touch, the engine mounts on either side of the engine. You will be able to see right away if they are not working as they should because there will be excessive vibration at the mount and a metallic clanking sound if the rubber bushing inside the T100's mount has been worn away. You'll need to have the affected motor mounts replaced.

   • 2

     Check for loose transmission mounts. If the vibration only occurs when shifting gears or when the truck is in motion during a gear shift, the problem is a transmission mount. This needs to be fixed by a professional mechanic.

   • 3

     Check for vibration when braking. If your T100 vibrated only when applying the brakes, your brake rotors and pads need to be replaced. The vibration happens as a result of an uneven braking surface on the rotor.

   • 4

     Listen for vibration coming from under the truck. The heat shield on the catalytic converter on your T100 is prone to rust since it is not treated with any kind of rust-proofing spray. If the top of the heat shield comes apart (it rusts at the mounting holes), it will begin to rattle or vibrate. This is not a serious problem, and can be fixed by any muffler shop. If the problem is caused by a broken mount for your exhaust (a broken exhaust hanger), this is more serious and needs to be fixed by a muffler shop right away.

How to Use My Toyota Navigation System

Toyota offers an in-dash navigation system on most of its new cars, trucks, SUVs and minivans.

Nearly all new Toyotas sold today, from the Matrix to the Prius, have a built-in navigation system available. The GPS is built into the vehicle's stereo system and uses a navigation CD, a connection to global-positioning satellites and a sensor that monitors your vehicle's speed to display maps of where you are and calculate driving directions.



Toyota's navigation system works like any other GPS device: You specify where you want to go, whether it's a specific address or a point of interest, and the unit will give you turn-by-turn directions and an estimated time of arrival.



In addition, Toyota's unit has a voice recognition system that allows you to input information by speaking instead of typing into an on-screen keyboard.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. • 1

     Turn on your stereo/navigation system unit and press the "Dest" button on the left side.

   • 2

     Make sure the search area is set correctly. On the small map of the United States in the upper right corner of the display, highlight the correct region for your chosen destination.

   • 3

     Choose the type of destination you want to map. Your options include: a specific address, a point of interest ("POI") by name or subject or an "Emergency" location, such as a police station or hospital.

   • 4

     Follow the prompts to enter specifics about your destination. If you need to navigate to a specific address, for example, you will enter the street number and then the street name. When finished, touch "Enter" and the system will formulate three routes.

   • 5

     Choose one of the three options: The quickest route, an optional quick route or the shortest-distance route.

   • 6

     Follow the turn-by-turn directions provided.

   • 7

     Use the "Voice" button on the right side of your steering wheel to access the voice-recognition system. In addition to allowing you to orally enter data, this will allow you to make any needed changes to your route while driving.

   • 8

     Use the "Menu" button to change the navigational system's volume or other settings.

Tips & Warnings

• To enter navigation data using the on-screen keyboard, your vehicle must be stopped. You cannot access that keyboard while driving. To make route changes while driving, you must use the voice-recognition system.

How to Change a 1996 Toyota Camry 3rd Brake Light

The third brake light on a 1996 Toyota Camry is designed to supplement the rear brake lights. This light is positioned on the back of the rear seat platform, against the rear window. The third brake light illuminates at the same time as the tail lights, drawing more attention to the slowing vehicle. When this light burns out, the third brake lamp will not function. Replacement light bulbs are available from auto parts and hardware stores.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Replacement brake light bulb

1. • 1

     Shut down the engine and place the Camry's transmission in park. Engage the parking brake.

   • 2

     Enter the backseat of the vehicle. Remove the plastic shroud that covers the back of the rear brake lamp, exposing the rear brake light bulb.

   • 3

     Remove the rear brake light bulb from its receptacle and replace it with the new bulb.

   • 4

     Replace the brake lamp shroud. Ask an assistant to depress the brake pedal while you verify that the brake lamp illuminates properly.