My 97 4runner is having issues starting. When I turn the key, all I get is a click sound, and does not appear to want to turn over. Up to this point, it will eventually (after several clicks) start normally on its own, or worst case getting a jump will get it going. This almost always occurred during freezing temps, but has also given me the problem when warmer out.

Today when I tried to start my car, it started then wouldn’t stop turning over (as if I was holding the key to the start position). When I turned the key off and removed it, it sounds like the starter is still trying to start the car. If I put the key back in and put it to on, the car will start. I kept turning over for about 5 minutes then finally died. Tried to start again and fired right up.

I have already had the battery tested (one month old) and was told it was very strong. Anyone ever had this problem or have any idea what might be wrong?

 

wow i can bearly read it but sound like your starter contacts

 

Elton

Thanks for the reply; I'll try cleaning the contacts and see if that helps. Any idea why jumping the truck makes it start? Kind of wierd since the battery is good.

 

i would clean all the battery cables so it gets good contact with the battery also do a quick search to find more answers

 

I have the exact same problem but have no fix, if you find one let me know

 

Elton and 984RNR

I had the starter solenoid rebuilt and works great; at least so far no problems. I am in the military in Korea, so I had no choice but to have it rebuilt; nobody would replace only the contacts, and having the parts mailed over here takes a couple of weeks. I probably would have taken the gamble of waiting for the parts, but getting stranded in Korea adds a whole new adventure into the drama.

Thanks for the help. By the way, it cost $150 over here to have the starter rebuilt; not sure how that compares to back home.

Take care and good luck 984RNR with getting yours up and running again.

 

Read this page and you'll probably find the answer:
- http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTricks/Starter.shtml

Do the "Easy Test" described on the page to isolate the source of the problem. It may be in the starter or it may be elsewhere in the system.