Many people own the Camry, but very few should try replacing the heater core by themselves. This is a very complicated process, as you must completely disassemble the car's dashboard to reach the heating/air conditioning unit. Consult with an expert first to confirm exact procedures for your Camry.
Drain the Camry's engine coolant, using a clean container for reuse. Disconnect the negative battery cable and wait a minute and a half for the airbag system to de-energize. Discharge and recover the air conditioner refrigerant.
Disconnect air conditioner suction hose and liquid pipe, then clamp on the tubes with an SST clamp. (Make sure you don't deform the tube). Disconnect the heater core hoses.
Disassemble every component of the dashboard, starting with the steering wheel and column. Removal includes the door scuff plates, cowl side trim, console panels and air bags. You'll need a second person's help to remove the dashboard from the interior.
Remove or disconnect all air ducts, the heater blower assembly, lower defroster nozzles, air conditioning radiator assembly. Remove the mode damper servo sub-assembly and Airmix damper servo sub-assembly, then remove the core from the air conditioner assembly.
Install the replacement heater core into air conditioner assembly. Reassemble all components of the heating/air conditioning unit, dashboard and dashboard components. Connect the heater core and A/C suction and pressure hoses, lubricating the O-rings with compressor oil.
Attach the negative battery cable, fill the cooling system and evacuate and recharge the air conditioner. Start up the engine and check for leaks in the system.
