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2007–2009 Toyota Camry: Driver's window switch stops working, gets hot or smells burnt (power window switch recall)

Likely causes, ranked

  1. Unevenly lubricated master switch$0–$0Shop

Real-owner fix counts will appear here as reports come in.

DIY or shop: See DIY or shop section

Parts to check

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Symptom: The driver's window switch works on and off or stops working, gets hot, or there's a burning smell or smoke near the driver's door.

Likely causes

  1. Unevenly lubricated master switch. Toyota says uneven grease inside the switch can make it overheat and melt. Toyota tells owners with a problem switch not to try repairing it themselves.

DIY or shop?

Dealer. Recall repairs are free.

Useful steps

  1. Check your VIN for both campaigns, even if one was already done.
  2. If the switch gets hot or smells, stop using it and contact a dealer.

Vehicle focus: 2007–2009 Toyota Camry.

Safety / mechanic note

An overheating switch can melt and start a fire. Verify with a mechanic or dealer.

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Recalls & service bulletins

Recalls

  • 12V491000 2012-10-10 2007–2009 Camry and other Toyota models: uneven lubrication inside the driver's power window master switch can make it malfunction and overheat. Dealers inspect it, apply a special grease, or replace a damaged switch. Details
  • 15V689000 2015-10-22 2007 and 2009 Camry and other models: grease may have been applied unevenly to the switch's sliding contacts. Dealers inspect and lubricate the switch, or replace its circuit board if it's damaged. Details

NHTSA complaints: 1,463 keyword-matched complaints for Toyota CAMRY 2007–2009 (of 6,177 unique complaints queried, NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-15).

Always check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Sources

What actually fixed it?

Had this problem? Tell other owners what the real fix was. Reports are counted above; we never show made-up numbers.

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