My dad's 1996 4Runner SR5 4X4 needs a new starter. He would have to turn the key a couple times for it to catch. He has it at the dealership (he will only take it there). They said that the starters are on backorder and they won't have one until thrusday.

Has anyone else heard of this?

 

Did you tear into the starter first to see what's wrong? Toyota starters usually just need to have the contacts replaced, only a few dollars of parts.

 

No, my dad took it to the dealer before I could look at it.

I just talked to my dad, and he is going to see if they can rebuild it, rather than replacing the whole thing.

 

Dealer's probably gonna charge you an arm and leg if they're even willing to rebuild it, I'd say do it yourselves if you can.

 

I just did mine recently and it only cost me $6.40 w/ tax!!!
All I did was order a "starter repair kit" from my local Toyota dealership. The parts guy wasn't familiar with this repair kit so I'd say it's safe to assume that dealerships don't readily offer this as an option when you tell them your vehicle is having starting problems. They'd rather make more money by selling you a whole new starter. The aftermarket makes out well too when they sell your old starter as a rebuilt one.

 

Yep, if you were them would you rather sell $6 of parts or a $300 starter?

 

Here is what you need to read before going any further!!