When I got into my 2000 4runner this morning, everything seemed fine...interior lights on, etc. I tried to start it, it clicked, and then it died. I took the key out of the ignition and popped the hood and noticed there was a clicking sound coming from what appears to be the fuse box right beside the battery. I tried to jump it, with no success. So, I was going to disconnect the positive battery cable, and as I was doing so, the headlights suddenly came on and the clicking noise stopped. Any idea what may be going on?

 

Check your ground wire going into the fuse box. Mine corroded and rusted away at the connection and fell off. Prior to doing that, I had similar symptoms and went through a battery before realizing it was just a loose wire. Sounds like it could also be a relay, but check your grounds first.

 

Sounds like a bad battery (not enough volts for start up) or a bad alternator (didn't recharge the battery). Use a multimeter to test your battery & clean your battery connections/terminals. GL

 

every now and then the wire going to my starter solinoid falls off (the small one not the one from the battery) it clicks when go to start it so i get out and plug it back in

 

The internet and this site are great. Okay 2001 4Runner -clicking when I try to start it. Read above. Cleaned the battery posts. Still won't start. Read posts again. Ah..ha. Unscrewed the bracket where negative cable connects to battery terminal. Coated in green build-up. Cleaned it up . Reconnected. Back in business.

 

Great forum. Any help would be appreciated.
I've read some of the answers.
My 2006 4Runner, well maintained, always garaged, has only 55k miles.

Check engine light came on about 2 months ago. I have one if the diagnostic tools you plug in under the driver's side of dash.I forgot how, but I made the light go off. Started engine, everything was fine.

Git sick. Haven't driven in 2 months. Battery is original, yes 10.5 years okd, but lights come on. I just can't turn over engine, I get those clicking noises....starter or wire, solenoid?
Honestly, engine bay looks new, clean, doubt there's corrosion anywhere. I baby her. But I don't drive enough to charge battery, yet, head lights, windows etc, work.

Any thoughts on how I can get her to start without towing to dealership?

THANKS