97 4Runner does NOT start at once.....?????
(97 4Runner SR5 4X4 Auto 105K miles)

Often, when I turn the ignition key to start engine, there is NO response. All the lights and ding ding sounds come out normal. However, I have to attemp turing the key several times to turn the starter on. Once it is turned on, the started strongly cranks engine without problem.

When the starter does NOT respond, it is just dead silent, NOT even any signal rubbing sounds.
But, once the starter cranking, engine started immediately and everything seems just normal.

The frequency of this symptom is getting increased so as the possibility of getting stranded in some one else's parking lot....

Is it the sign of bad starter (doesn't look like so)?
or Is it contact problem? If so, can you advise where to look for the contact problem?
Or any other problem?

Thank you for your advise in advance.

 

Try checking your battery terminals. They may be loose.

 

try checking the contacts on the starter where the cables attach. i had a loose one and it did the same thing. make sure they are nice and tight.

 

I have this problome once in a while. I replaced my terminals on my battery and they tend to come loose.

 

One of the most common problems is that starter contacts wear out on the starters ~ 80k miles an over, depending on use. If you've checked the easy stuff, it's probably this. Scour the archives, you'll see many examples of this problem in the past (myself included).

 

I had the same problem. Clean battery terminals and tighten them. Then youre all good.