2022-2024 Toyota Camry B-Pillar Noise TSB T-SB-0036-24

Symptoms

Owners of 2022-2024 Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles may notice a distinct Toyota Camry B-pillar noise. This noise is described as a tapping or ticking sound originating from the B-pillar area and the seat belt anchor point. The issue can occur on either the driver's or passenger's side of the vehicle.

The tapping/ticking noise is most commonly observed when driving on non-smooth road conditions. It tends to be more prevalent during warmer weather, suggesting a potential expansion or vibration issue within the vehicle's structure.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

To confirm the presence of this Toyota Camry B-pillar noise, a technician will typically drive the vehicle on various road surfaces, specifically focusing on non-smooth sections. The goal is to reproduce the tapping or ticking sound near the B-pillar and seat belt anchor point. If the noise is present, the vehicle qualifies for the repair outlined in Technical Service Bulletin T-SB-0036-24.

Repair Procedure Summary

Toyota Technical Service Bulletin T-SB-0036-24 outlines a specific repair procedure to eliminate the tapping/ticking noise. The process involves reinforcing certain structural welds within the B-pillar area.

1. Confirm the Condition: The technician first verifies that the tapping/ticking noise is present as described.
2. Disconnect Battery: The 12V auxiliary battery is disconnected for safety before proceeding with interior work.
3. Access B-Pillar: Interior trim components, including the front and rear door scuff plates, door opening weatherstrip trim, and the lower and upper center pillar garnishes, are carefully removed from the affected side of the vehicle. This provides access to the B-pillar's internal structure.
4. Reinforce Welds: Using a brass punch and hammer, the technician strikes specific welds within the B-pillar structure. The bulletin includes diagrams (Figure 2 and Figure 3 in the original document) illustrating the exact weld locations to be reinforced. This action aims to secure any loose or vibrating weld points that may be causing the noise.
5. Reconnect Battery: After reinforcing the welds, the 12V auxiliary battery is reconnected.
6. Verify Repair: The vehicle is then tested to confirm that the tapping/ticking noise has been eliminated.
7. Reinstall Trim: Finally, all removed weatherstrip, garnishes, and scuff plates are reinstalled according to Toyota's repair manual procedures.

Applicable Warranty

This repair for the Toyota Camry B-pillar noise is covered under the Toyota Basic Warranty. This warranty is valid for 36 months or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first, from the vehicle's original in-service date. Warranty application is strictly limited to vehicles exhibiting the specific condition described in T-SB-0036-24.

Owner Action

If you own a 2022-2024 Toyota Camry or Camry Hybrid and are experiencing a tapping or ticking noise from the B-pillar or seat belt anchor point, especially on rough roads or in warmer weather, you should contact your authorized Toyota dealership. Inform them about the noise and mention Technical Service Bulletin T-SB-0036-24. The dealership will be able to diagnose the issue and perform the necessary repair under warranty, provided your vehicle meets the eligibility criteria.

Source: NHTSA ID 11003645