Overview

Transform your Celica's interior aesthetics by changing the stock green climate control lighting to any color you desire. This detailed modification covers complete disassembly, painting techniques, and reassembly for a professional custom lighting result.

Required Tools & Materials

💡 Important Planning Notes

• Full day project: Allow time for paint drying between coats
• Cable management: Climate unit has cables that must be carefully routed
• Paint selection: Use translucent paint for proper light transmission
• Spare bulbs: Part #84999-70007 (3 required) available from Toyota dealer

Step 1: Dashboard Panel Removal

Begin by removing the dashboard trim panels to access the climate control unit.

Lower panel removal:

• Remove the panel surrounding the shifter - it simply pulls out
• Panel is held by four clips that release with gentle pulling

Upper panel removal:

• Remove two screws from the bottom of the panel above shifter area
• Pull panel out carefully - it's held by clips
• Disconnect two wiring harnesses near the top before full removal

Step 2: Climate Control Cable Disconnection

The climate control unit has two cables that must be disconnected before removal:

Blue cable (interior):

• Located to the right of the gas pedal
• Pull cable out of the retention snap
• Pinch the top of the pin and slide cable end up and off

Black cable (engine bay):

• Located near the top of driver's side firewall
• Undo the retention clip
• Cable will come off the top of the pin

Step 3: Climate Control Unit Removal

With panels and cables disconnected, remove the climate control unit:

• Remove the two remaining screws holding the unit in place
• Disconnect the three electrical harnesses from the back
• Unit pulls out with cables still attached

Take photos of harness connections for reassembly reference.

Step 4: Unit Disassembly

Initial disassembly:

• Remove blue rear defroster switch - it snaps in place
• Bend tab back slightly and slide piece out

Complete disassembly:

• Remove locking notches around the unit perimeter
• Remove multiple small screws securing case halves
• Separate unit and remove all knobs
• Use small Phillips screwdriver to push buttons out from front

Step 5: Masking and Paint Preparation

Proper masking is critical for professional results:

Mask these areas (keep black):

• Black exterior surfaces of buttons
• Black exterior surfaces of knobs
• Any surfaces that don't need color change

Paint these areas (color change):

• Back surfaces of all buttons
• Light reflectors extending from buttons
• Clear areas on knobs
• Flat area on unit front where fan speed indicators are located

Step 6: Paint Application

Painting technique:

• Apply two light coats rather than one heavy coat
• Allow adequate drying time between coats
• Use smooth, even strokes
• Work in well-ventilated area

Drying process:

• Allow paint to completely cure before handling
• Follow manufacturer's recommended drying times
• Protect from dust during drying process

Step 7: Reassembly and Installation

Unit reassembly:

• Carefully reassemble all components in reverse order
• Ensure all buttons and knobs operate smoothly
• Verify all electrical connections are properly seated

Installation:

• Guide black cable into white tube during installation
• Route blue cable to correct position
• Reconnect three electrical harnesses
• Secure unit with mounting screws
• Reconnect both control cables
• Reinstall dashboard panels

🎯 Custom Lighting Results

📸 Process Gallery

💡 Pro Tips

• Paint selection: Use only translucent paints to maintain light transmission
• Documentation: Take photos during disassembly for reassembly reference
• Patience required: Allow full cure time - rushing leads to fingerprints and damage
• Backup plan: Keep spare bulbs on hand (Toyota part #84999-70007)
• Test operation: Verify all functions work before final panel installation
• Cable routing: Take time to properly route cables during reinstallation