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Hi All,

About two weeks ago I began having trouble starting my 97 V6 4Runner 2WD. This wasn't a gradual thing, it just started out of the blue. Now almost everytime I try to start the car, I hear a single click the first time or two, but no movement from the engine. If I fiddle with the lights or radio, wait a minute, or cross my fingers, I can usually get it to start right up. When it does start, there is no click and not even a slow turnover - it starts right up just like normal.

I had the battery tested and it is fine. My next suspicion was the starter. Before I purchase and install a new one, I wanted to see if you guys have any suggestions.... maybe a loose wire.... a fuse? Thanks for the help!

Bob_98SR5

you can replace the brushes inside the starter. search "starter brushes" and read to find the thread(s) and writeups that address your problem.

ebelen1

Others have had recent success w/ just cleaning or replacing starter contacts.

saulgoode

Try the cleaning or replacing the starter contacts, sounds similar to what was happening to me a few years back. Changed the starter contacts, and now starts like a champ!

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Can I pick up replacement starter contacts at an autoparts store?
Do I need to buy specific ones, or are they pretty generic?
Any estimates on how much this costs?
Thanks!

HawkGT

I recently had the same problem. I read all the starter contact threads and started in on replacing those. Turned out my battery posts had a lot of corrosion on them which apparently didn't give the starter the amperage it needed to engage the solenoid.

The contacts aren't very expensive, approx. $12. There are several different shaped contacts and the only way to ensure you get the right ones is to disassemble the starter and take the contacts to you local dealership to match them up. I not only read this but my local dealership confirmed it.

Good Luck!

Firefightertaco

i just got a used starter from a online junkyard for 70 bucks shipped and had it the next day and it works great.

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Does anyone know the shape for 97 Toyota 4Runner V6 2WD LTD? My problem is that I only have one car, so I can't take the starter off and carry it to the auto parts store. I'd also like to avoid taking it off to see the contacts, putting it back on to drive to the store, and taking it off again to replace them. Thanks so much for all the responses so far!