Is it worth it to rebuild a starter or just get a new one? And if I replace it should I go dealer or Advanced Auto?

 

Replacing the contacts is only arond $15 and pretty easy. A whole new starter will cost much less than at a dealer, but wouldn't necessarily be as good as OEM. I would try replacing the contacts first.

 

Go to http://www.off-road.com/toyota/tech/starter/

there is a very good write-up here about the contact rebuild. Just be sure you get BOTH SIDE kits from the dealer. One is @ $15 and the other is @ $18. I rebuilt mine recently & it cranks like crazy (after I replaced a 5 year old battery, too).

 

I would try the contacts first. I tried them on my starter and it did not help. I ended up getting a starter from Advanced auto for around 100 bucks.