Q: How do you check and replace the ignition switch and Ignition Lock Cylinder on 1995 through 2004 Toyota Tacoma?
A: Disconnect the cable from the negative terminal of the battery, ensuring that the lockout feature of the anti-theft audio system is turned off if applicable. Disable the airbag system, then remove the steering wheel and the steering column covers. Pry off the starter switch bezel and unplug the electrical connectors from the ignition switch. For T100 models, use an ohmmeter to check the continuity of the switch terminals: there should be no continuity with the key in LOCK, continuity between terminals 2 and 3 in ACC, continuity between terminals 1, 2, and 3 as well as between terminals 7 and 8 in ON, and continuity between terminals 1, 3, and 6 as well as between terminals 7 and 8 in START. Check the continuity of the key unlock warning switch with the switch OFF and the key removed, ensuring there is no continuity, then insert the key and turn the switch ON to confirm continuity between terminals 4 and 5. If the ignition switch does not operate, replace it. For Tacoma and 4Runner models, perform a similar continuity check: no continuity in LOCK, continuity between terminals 2 and 3 in ACC, continuity between terminals 2, 3, and 4 as well as between terminals 6 and 7 in ON, and continuity between terminals 1, 2, and 4 as well as between terminals 6, 7, and 8 in START. Again, check the key unlock warning switch for continuity as previously described, and replace the ignition switch if it does not operate. For replacement, insert the key in the ignition switch Ignition Lock Cylinder and turn it to ACC, then insert a small screwdriver into the hole in the bottom of the ignition switch casting to press the release button while pulling the lock cylinder straight out. Installation is the reverse of removal.