It did this to me last night but started up the second turn.


Today It didn't make any noise (maybe I didn't hear the click) Then I turned the key again and heard a CLICK. Third time same thing. 4th time it started.

Is it my battery???? My battery is pretty new.

HELP! I'm at school right now. I hope it turns when I get out of here so I can take it to Autozone on my way home if it' the battery. Maybe loose terminals?

What should I tinker with? Tools wise, all I have is a Leatherman Wave on me.

I don't want to call tow.

 

Most likely the starter solenoid contacts are worn. I had to replace mine. Not much you can do but try starting multiple times or holding the key in the start position for 2-3 seconds even though you don't hear anything. Sometimes it will catch. Jumping will sometimes help them to connect better.

 

Yup, starter contacts. Some auto parts stores sell the contacts (without having to buy a whole starter)

 

Have the battery, connections, cables, and alternator tested first. If all those are ok, then like its been said, its the starter.

 

Start thinking about taking our advice & start to think bout getting to the parts store to start getting a new starter. Blue

 

Just be careful about selecting aftermarket starters as some are complete junk. My sister in law replaced the starter in her 93 with a $40 Autozone special. She had a least 2 more in after that untill I got one from a junk yard and rebuilt it. Sometimes these places do sell rebuilt Toyota (Denso?) starters that are OK.

 

I just replaced starter contacts to cure exactly the same symptoms. I'm new to this stuff, but with a universal joint and a couple long extensions on your ratchet, the starter comes out pretty easily. It's cake from there. Search for "starter" on the board and follow the write up instructions. It took me about 2 hours and cost $15 plus the extra extensions. I've had no problems since.

J.D.

 

If it's the contacts, should I get them from the dealer or Autozone ?

 

I'd hit the dealership. They give you a nice little package with all the necessary parts. See above for others' experience with Autozone...

 

Cool. Its funny how in my area, i can get better prices for parts and service compared to the other mechanic shops.

It helps to have 5 dealers in town. I just goto a convenient one, and get price quotes. Then call all others and have the local one price match the lowest price.

Dealership here I come.

After I goto my Linear Algebra class :cry:

While I'm there, should I have them check anything else?

 

Also check the connections for the battery cables. Had a Mustang once where one of them was slightly loose, and some moisture caused the same symptoms.

Always check the stupuid things first -- could be a fix that doesn't cost anything. Those are the best kind!

 

I agree with this check out the little things first. It probably is the contacts however , and I attached a picture to this post so you can see what they look like. I always have a set in my shop just in case!

 

davi,

hey, glad to see you made it over here. i told you people are fast w/ good advice!

bob

 

Davi...

Welcome!!!

I agree...starter. I just replaced mine about a month ago. There is a great write up, with pictures and the such. Good luck and be patience.

 

Yep, definately the contacts.
Very cheap to rebuild......I think the are like $20 for the kit from Todd (TOR on yotatech)