I'm having some problems at times getting my 4Runner started. Sometimes she starts right up then other times I turn the key and either nothing happens or it cranks a bit and then just stops, no clicking or anything.
I'm guessing it is time to replace the starter, so where should I pick one up?

Thanks
Brad

 

i'll bet you just need to replace the contacts in the solenoid. very easy to do and costs about $10. you can get them from 4crawler.

here is a link to a write-up on how to do it.

http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTricks/Starter.shtml

although, since you aren't getting clicking all the time, it could also be the relay. the link above has a troubelshooting section that might help you.

 

Anyone else had this on the 3rd gens?? Mine started doing the exact same thing.... I was going to replace the starter, but I'd like to make sure.

 

Do a search on starters . There was just a "big discussion "on this very same thing and lotts of good advice too. Mike

 

Does the starter have to be removed to change the contacts?? If so... I'll probably just have it replaced. I worked on it for 4 hrs yesterday and couldn't break the starter bolts loose. Grrr. I just want to make sure this is the problem... when I turn the key I'll either get nothing (no click or nothing) or it will start.

Replacing the starter is around a $300 project at the dealer. Fun.

 

Just a shot in the dark have you check your batter terminals? Mine did that as well just cause my negative terminal wasn't completely tight.

 

I had the same problem, after figuring out which bolts drop the starter, I got failed to get the actual starter out. After about 2 hours of dropping and twisting the starter around the engine bay I gave up. After bolting the starter back up it has started reliably for about 6 months now. *knock on wood* So don't pay 200+ or what ever the dealership is going to charge you for that. Keep trying to do the install yourself. Even if you fail, you might fix the problem inadvertantly.

 

My starter has been working great now!!! I'm guessing the contacts were an issue?? It doesn't matter tho, I'm happy (thanx God). Brad hope your starter issue works out too!!!

 

Yes, many of us have this problem, and yes, it was the starter contacts for me. I had my starter out, the contacts replaced, and the starter installed in about an hour. I am wondering if my body lift had something to do with it, but it was REALLY easy.

Obviously you would want to have all the free stuff tested at Autozone before you tackled this project, but I am willing to bet if your battery is ok it is the contacts. Roger is your man for the parts you need.

 

took me about an hour, too...with no lift.

for a 22RE, at least, just go in through the wheel well...remove the plastic inner fender piece and right there the starter is.