Before I get flamed saying use the search function. I've been doing so.

Last weekend my 4runner had a difficult time starting. You know that whole click, click thing. So after a few failed attempts to start it I pop the hood to find both the battery terminals covered in that white crap (don't remember the correct name for that crap). So I go ahead and clean the terminals and the clamps and tigthen everything back down.

I go to start it up again and it starts but it's really sluggish to start (the inside lights didn't go dim when starting). So I drove it around for a little while to see if that would help but it didn't. What I did notice was after it had warmed up it would start easier but it was still sluggish. Kind of like a low battery type start (again the lights go dim when starting).

It's been doing this all week, so I'm wondering what you all think it might be.

Battery that is dying or the starter is starting to take a dump (been reading up on the threads about replacing the starter contacts)?

Hopefully, this makes sense.

 

When my starter solenoid contacts were getting worn to the point of not starting reliably, it was a case of either starting normally, or making no sounds or turning over at all.

Slow cranking I'd say is likely just a weak battery. Most any auto parts place (Auto Zone, Pep Boys, etc.) will test your battery for you for free. Of course they are hoping to sell you a battery if you need one.

Good luck.

 

Can a mod delete this thread.

This was kind of stupid question, I should've know better.

 

What's the answer?

 

I'm asking because I've been having a similar problem recently, but my battery is only about a year old.

When I try to start sometimes I just hear a click. It almost sounds like a relay clicking. Then if I turn all the way off and on a couple times it will start.

Did your battery end up being the problem?

 

It sounds like you are having the classic starter contact problem.

 

My 99 had a simmilar issue! there are several things to check first make sure the battery is fully charged and take it and have it tested - if you have not replaced the starter brushes you might want to or throw a set in the tool box for when you need em. If you don't want the trouble rebuilding the starter get a new starter motor. BUT before you go there check the clutch switch and make sure the corrosion on the battery terminals is delt with and be sure the + side is properly connecting with out too much resistance. If I had to guess I'd say that battery has a leak around the terminals. and perhaps has migrated acid into the wire. That by itself will not cause the "sluggishness" but will cause problems in time. more likely it has glazed the terminals. I replace the starter after checking everything twice and then the battery - no further issues in two years....