Changing the time on your 2017 Toyota Camry might seem like a simple task, but for many drivers unfamiliar with their vehicle’s infotainment or instrument display settings, it can be a confusing challenge. Whether you’re adjusting for daylight saving time, traveling across time zones, or replacing a vehicle battery that caused the clock to reset, knowing how to change the time in your Camry is both practical and essential for maintaining a functional and synchronized driving experience.
In this detailed guide, you will learn everything you need to know about changing the time on your 2017 Toyota Camry. We’ll explore the two primary areas where the time might need to be adjusted: the instrument cluster (digital dashboard) and the Entune infotainment system. Whether you drive a base LE model with minimal digital displays or a higher trim like the XSE with more advanced audio and navigation features, this guide has you covered.
By the end of this article, you’ll feel confident in making time adjustments without referring to your owner’s manual every time. Moreover, we’ll provide tips and tricks for maximizing the functionality of your vehicle’s information displays and touch on common troubleshooting scenarios.
Let’s start by understanding the layout and settings of your 2017 Toyota Camry’s dash and infotainment system.
Understanding the 2017 Toyota Camry Dashboard and Infotainment Interface
Before diving into the step-by-step process of how to change the time, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the dashboard and infotainment components in your 2017 Camry. These systems may vary slightly depending on the trim level and optional features you may have ordered when purchasing your vehicle.
1. Instrument Cluster Display
The instrument cluster of the 2017 Camry includes analog gauges for engine speed and speedometer, complemented by a digital information display. Depending on your trim, this display might offer various information options, including:
- Current time
- Odometer and trip information
- Fuel economy data
- Driving range
- Warning messages
On most 2017 models, this digital display is accessible via the “TRIP” button on the instrument cluster or the multifunction steering wheel. Time settings are typically accessed and adjusted from this interface if automatic time synchronization isn’t available.
2. Toyota Entune Audio Infotainment System
The infotainment system in the 2017 Toyota Camry is part of the Toyota Entune suite. It includes touchscreen functionality in models equipped with the Smart Key System, and it plays a vital role in displaying and adjusting time, especially when connected to sources such as Bluetooth or when navigating with the built-in GPS.
The Toyota Entune system supports time adjustments via its settings menu. It is also often capable of syncing with your smartphone’s time or GPS satellites to automatically set the current time based on your location.
Changing the Time in the Instrument Cluster Display
The instrument cluster display includes the time shown next to other essential driving information such as trip distance and fuel economy. It’s important to note that the instrument cluster time may not always update automatically when your car’s settings are changed. If your car battery was disconnected, or the system was reset for other reasons, you’ll need to update the time manually.
Let’s walk through the exact steps to change the time on the digital display in the instrument cluster.
Step 1: Turn on the Ignition
To access the time settings, ensure your vehicle is powered on. You can either start the engine or place the key fob in the car and press the start button (if you have a push-button start system) to enter ACC or ON mode. Your display should turn on, showing information like the speed and RPM.
Step 2: Navigate to the Time Setting
On the digital display on the dashboard, the time is usually visible without adjusting any settings. However, to change it:
- Press the “TRIP” button located on the left side of the steering wheel to cycle through available displays.
- Look for the clock icon or the word “TIME” on the screen.
- Once on the time menu, you’ll likely see the time along with other data.
Step 3: Enter the Setup/Configuration Menu
Hold the “TRIP” button for about 3 to 5 seconds. This will bring up the configuration menu. You can now scroll through the options using the same TRIP button.
Step 4: Select ‘Time’ for Adjustment
Using the “TRIP” button, cycle through the setup options until you reach ‘TIME’. Select this setting by pressing and holding the button again if required.
Step 5: Adjust the Time
After entering the time setup mode, you’ll be able to adjust the hour first. Click the TRIP button to cycle through numbers or use the arrow controls if your steering wheel has them. Wait a moment for the setting to change, then proceed to the minutes.
If your vehicle includes a multifunction steering wheel with up/down/left/right arrows or a joystick-style controller, you can use that instead of the TRIP button. These controls provide a quicker and smoother way to navigate system menus, especially when adjusting time settings precisely.
Step 6: Save and Exit
After adjusting both the hour and minute fields, press and hold the button again or wait for the system to automatically save and exit the configuration menu after a short delay. Your new time should now display on the screen.
Here’s a quick summary of this process in list form:
- 1. Turn on the ignition.
- 2. Press the TRIP button to cycle through displays until you see the time setting.
- 3. Hold the button to access configuration settings.
- 4. Navigate to and select the “TIME” option.
- 5. Begin adjusting the hour and continue to minutes as needed.
- 6. Save changes by exiting the menu.
Setting the Time in the Toyota Entune Infotainment System
Now that you’ve adjusted the time in the instrument cluster, the next step is to ensure that the infotainment display is synchronized with the correct time as well. On the 2017 Toyota Camry, this requires accessing the settings of the Toyota Entune system. Let’s break it down into clear, manageable steps.
Step 1: Access the Main Menu
Touch the Home icon on the Entune touch screen to navigate to the main menu. The screen layout may include shortcuts to features like Audio, Phone, Navigation, and Apps. Depending on your trim level, different interfaces can apply.
Step 2: Open the Settings Menu
From the Home screen, select the ‘Settings’ icon — typically represented by a gear. This brings up various system configuration options, including:
- Audio settings
- Bluetooth and connectivity
- Clock and date
- Display brightness
- Navigation settings
- Language
Step 3: Locate the Time and Date Settings
Scroll through the menu options and find ‘Clock’ or ‘Date & Time’ depending on how your Entune system organizes these settings. On some vehicles, this is nested within a “Display” or “System” settings subcategory.
Step 4: Choose Manual Setup or GPS Auto-Update
In the Clock settings, you’ll typically have two options:
- Set Automatically (synchronizes with GPS, network time, or smartphone time)
- Set Manually
If you select Set Automatically, your system will detect your current time zone and date using GPS data. This is ideal for travelers or those who want a hassle-free way to ensure accurate time settings.
If you choose Set Manually, you’ll be able to adjust the time and date fields like hour, minute, day, month, year, and time zone.
Step 5: Adjust Time and Save
Use the on-screen touch controls to adjust time. You’ll be able to move between fields such as:
- Hour
- Minute
- AM/PM
- Date
- Time Zone (you may need to manually select it here if autodetect doesn’t work)
Once all fields are correctly entered, select ‘Save’ or wait for the system to auto-save after a few seconds of inactivity.
Additional Tips and Tricks for Time Setting Accuracy
Even with precise instructions, time changes aren’t always seamless — especially if your battery had been disconnected, or your GPS system isn’t receiving a signal. Let’s cover some additional useful information to ensure your 2017 Toyota Camry is perfectly set for local time standards.
1. Auto Time Synchronization Through Bluetooth
If your vehicle is paired with your smartphone via Bluetooth, the Entune system can use your phone’s current time to set the clock on the in-car system. This feature is especially useful after switching time zones or during daylight saving time changes.
To enable this auto sync:
- Make sure your phone’s time is correct and using automatic time settings.
- Go to “Phone” in your Entune system or Bluetooth settings.
- Ensure your phone is successfully synced and active in Bluetooth communication.
2. GPS Time Tracking for Navigation Systems
Vehicles equipped with the optional navigation package in the 2017 Toyota Camry have more advanced time capabilities. The GPS system not only provides real-time navigation updates but also knows:
- Current date and time
- Sunrise and sunset times
- Time zone information
It’s essential to ensure your GPS system receives a satellite signal. If you’re in a garage or an area with weak connectivity, it may take up to a minute for the system to update once you move to an area with coverage.
3. Adjusting Time Zones
The 2017 Toyota Camry allows you to specify your time zone in the settings. This comes in handy if automatic sync is disabled. You can find this under the ‘Clock’ settings in the Entune system.
Available time zones may include:
- Eastern Time
- Central Time
- Mountain Time
- Pacific Time
- Alaska Time
- Hawaii-Aleutian Time
Troubleshooting Time Settings
Even after following instructions carefully, you might run into issues where the time doesn’t display properly or resets again. Here are some common issues and how to resolve them.
Issue 1: Time Resets After Changing it
If your time seems to reset hours or days after you set it, it might not be saving properly. This issue can be due to:
- A dead backup battery within the infotainment or instrument cluster system
- Corrupted settings data from a glitch in the system software
- Persistent GPS signal or Bluetooth syncing issues
In such cases, try a system restart. Turn off the car completely, disconnect the battery for a few minutes (if technically comfortable), and reconnect. If the issue persists, refer to your local Toyota dealership for a system diagnostics scan.
Issue 2: Time Display Not Changing After Update
If the time was manually entered but failed to update, it could be a setting conflict in the system, especially if Auto Sync is enabled and your GPS is not locked onto a signal. To resolve this:
- Disable Auto Time if you are setting the time manually.
- Wait outside until the GPS receives a full lock.
- Force GPS signal by turning on the system and sitting in an open area.
Issue 3: Clock Not Displaying at All
If the time isn’t appearing on the dash or infotainment screen:
- Check the brightness settings or menu options hiding the time for fuel economy or engine details.
- Cycle through displays using the TRIP button or screen menu to ensure time hasn’t simply been hidden from view.
Best Practices for Maintaining Time Accuracy
Maintaining accurate time is more than just setting the clock once. If you drive frequently, travel between time zones, or want your vehicle’s digital systems to sync well for navigation and smart features — setting the right time is crucial.
Here are a few best practices to consider:
1. Keep GPS Reception Clear
Ensure your vehicle is parked where GPS satellites can be received quickly. If your system has lost signal, sitting outside with the car on for 1–2 minutes should reacquire it.
2. Avoid Extended Battery Disconnection
If you ever need to disconnect your car’s battery, plan to reset time-related displays afterward. The longer the battery is disconnected, the more systems may reset—including time and radio station settings.
3. Regular Software Updates for Infotainment
Toyota Entune systems can receive periodic software updates to ensure optimal performance, including improved GPS and Bluetooth time synchronization features. Check for updates through the Toyota website or your local dealer to keep them current.
Conclusion
Changing the time on your 2017 Toyota Camry is a straightforward yet often overlooked task. Whether adjusting the instrument cluster clock, recalibrating the Entune infotainment system, or troubleshooting auto-sync errors—knowing how to take control of the settings within your vehicle enhances your overall ownership experience.
The dual approach of manually updating time and leveraging automatic features through GPS or smartphone synchronization can ensure your Camry always displays accurate time, regardless of travel, climate, or seasonal changes.
Use this comprehensive guide as a reference, and you’ll never be unsure of how to set or adjust the time in your 2017 Toyota Camry again. Understanding your dashboard and infotainment system’s capabilities brings greater confidence and convenience to every drive.
With practice and familiarity, adjusting time will become second nature—letting you focus on the road ahead and the journey you’re embarking on.
Recommended Resources for Further Assistance
If you prefer more visual instructions or aren’t completely confident after reading this guide, Toyota offers several valuable resources:
- Official Toyota Owner’s Manual for 2017 Camry – Includes full diagrams and text descriptions of every system function.
- Toyota Entune Support Website – Offers articles, video guides, and FAQs on system operations.
- YouTube Tutorials by Toyota Owners’ Groups – These often show practical demonstrations.
- Toyota Customer Support Phone Line – Contact Toyota directly for questions beyond the manual.
- Local Toyota Dealer Tech Support – Certified technicians offer diagnostic and operational support.
By leveraging these tools, you ensure that your ownership experience remains hassle-free, even when you’re updating simple yet important features like the clock on your dashboard and touchscreen.
How do I access the clock settings on a 2017 Toyota Camry?
To access the clock settings on a 2017 Toyota Camry, start by locating the display screen in the center console. This screen is typically part of the Entune infotainment system, which includes several menu options. Turn on the vehicle or place it in accessory mode, then press the “Menu” button on the touchscreen or use the arrow buttons on the audio system to navigate to the “Settings” option.
Once in the Settings menu, scroll through the options until you find “Time and Date.” Select that, and you’ll be able to view and edit the current time and date settings. If your display doesn’t show a clock immediately, you may need to enable it in the display preferences. This method allows full access to the clock settings without requiring any specialized tools or external help.
Can I change the time without using the touchscreen?
Yes, you can change the time on your 2017 Toyota Camry without using the touchscreen, especially if your model has a traditional audio system with physical buttons. Begin by pressing and holding the “Setup” button on the radio or display panel. This will bring up the settings menu on the smaller trip display located between the tachometer and speedometer.
From there, use the “Seek” buttons (typically labeled “<<” and “>>”) to navigate through the menu options until you reach the time settings. Press the “Setup” button again to enter the time adjustment mode, then use the same Seek buttons to change the hour and minutes. Press the “Setup” button one final time to save your changes and exit the menu.
Why is the time on my car display incorrect?
The time on your 2017 Toyota Camry display might be incorrect for a few reasons. The most common is that the battery was disconnected or completely drained, which resets the system’s clock and other settings. Additionally, if you’ve recently traveled across time zones or daylight saving time has changed, the system may not automatically update unless your car is equipped with GPS-linked time settings.
To resolve this issue, manually adjust the time using the vehicle’s settings menu as outlined in the guide. Ensure that the date is also correct, since some functions of the car rely on accurate time and date information. If you frequently experience time resets, it may be worth checking the car battery or the backup power source for the infotainment system.
Does changing the time affect other settings in my Camry?
Changing the time on your 2017 Toyota Camry should not affect other settings in the vehicle. The clock adjustment is isolated within the time and date menu, meaning that your radio presets, climate control settings, and driver preferences should remain unchanged. However, if the system requires a reboot due to incorrect date information or a software glitch, some settings might temporarily reset.
To avoid unexpected changes, always exit the settings menu properly after making adjustments. If you notice that other functions or personalized settings reset frequently when adjusting the clock, it could indicate an issue with the car’s electrical system or the infotainment unit’s memory retention. In such cases, it’s best to consult with a Toyota service center for diagnostics.
How can I set the clock to 12-hour or 24-hour format?
To change the clock format between 12-hour and 24-hour on a 2017 Toyota Camry, access the “Settings” menu through the touchscreen display or the instrument cluster menu, depending on your model. Once in the Settings menu, navigate to “Time and Date.” Here, you should see an option labeled “Time Format” or something similar.
Select “Time Format” and choose between 12-hour (AM/PM) or 24-hour (military time) display. Confirm your selection and exit the menu. The change should take effect immediately across all displays in the vehicle where time is shown, including the dashboard and infotainment screen. This feature allows drivers to customize the display for personal or professional use preferences.
Can I set the clock using a connected smartphone?
The 2017 Toyota Camry does not support automatic clock synchronization via a connected smartphone. While the Entune system allows for Bluetooth connectivity, music streaming, and hands-free calling, it does not pull time zone or time data from connected mobile devices. Therefore, any changes to the car’s clock will need to be done manually through the onboard settings.
If you’d like an automatic time update, you may consider using GPS-based navigation systems, which sometimes provide real-time synchronization. Alternatively, you can manually adjust the time based on your smartphone’s clock when needed. Third-party apps or hardware modifications are not recommended, as they can interfere with factory operations and void warranties or service agreements.
What should I do if the time resets frequently?
If the time on your 2017 Toyota Camry resets frequently, the most likely cause is an issue with the vehicle’s battery or the backup power supply for the infotainment system. When the car battery is disconnected, drained, or not functioning properly, the internal clock, along with other settings, may reset each time the car is turned off. Similarly, a weak backup capacitor in the radio can also cause the clock to lose time when the system is powered down.
To fix this issue, first check the health of your car battery. A multimeter test for voltage or a professional inspection at a service center can help determine if the battery is failing. If the battery is in good condition, consult a Toyota dealer or automotive electrician to inspect whether the infotainment or radio unit has a capacitor or power retention problem. Addressing these issues ensures your clock stays accurate and eliminates the need for constant manual adjustments.