Intermittent issue of the engine not cranking?

2010 TOYOTA COROLLA
231,000 MILES • 1.8L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
BUYRITEAUTO21
  • MEMBER
  • 35 POSTS
Sometimes when I turn the key on my car, it won't turn over. I'll try again using the same motion right away and it will turn over. One time I even heard a spinning sound come when I started the car. These are intermittent and only happens about once per day. Is this my starter beginning to fail?

Thanks
Aug 2, 2022 at 11:47 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
AL514
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 5,683 POSTS
Hello, it could be the starter motor beginning to fail, are you hearing any clicking noise when it won't start? Other possibilities are the starter relay (ST Relay), the Ignition Switch, the Park/Neutral Position switch assembly.
For a day, try starting it in Neutral with your foot on the Brakes. If you have no problems all day, then it might be the Park/Neutral switch. The only way to really verify it's the Starter Motor is to check for power at the Starter when the fault is happening. But trying the Neutral trick will rule out the switch. Also check that your Battery terminal connections are not corroded.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-test-light-circuit-tester

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-an-electrical-relay-and-wiring-control-circuit
Images (Click to enlarge)
Attached Media
Attached Media
Aug 2, 2022 at 3:14 PM
🔧 Tools & Auto Repair Parts
Find automotive tools, diagnostic equipment, and replacement parts for your next repair.
Shop on Amazon →
Paid affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Ask a new question

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle