Safety Warning

DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.

2001 Toyota RAV4 Base, FWD, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Ignition Switch

Disconnect electrical connector from ignition switch on bottom of upper steering column bracket. See Figure. Note ignition switch electrical terminals and ignition lock cylinder positions. See Fig 1.

Using ohmmeter, check that continuity is as specified between indicated ignition switch electrical terminals in relation to ignition lock cylinder position. See IGNITION SWITCH CONTINUITY table. Replace ignition switch if defective. See IGNITION SWITCH under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION.

IGNITION SWITCH CONTINUITY

Ign. Lock Cylinder Position

Ign. Switch Terminals No.

Specification

LOCK

⁽¹⁾

ACC

1 & 3

Continuity

1, 2 & 3; 5 & 6

Continuity

START

1 & 2; 4, 5 & 6

Continuity

⁽¹⁾	There should be no continuity between any terminals.

Fig 1: Identifying Ignition Switch Electrical Terminals & Ignition Lock Cylinder Positions

Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

• You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
• Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
• The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
• You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
• You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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