Intermittent starting issue

JBEAU

MEMBER
2007 TOYOTA TACOMA
4.0L
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
158,000 MILES

We adopted the truck listed above from my father-in-law. Recently it's developed a starting issue. Single click/no crank. Battery is 12.4+ and no issues with the truck up to this point. I have decent mechanics skills so I'd like to see what you would suggest checking to save some time. 158,000 miles on it. Starter maybe? And/or relay? What about ignition fuses? Your time is greatly appreciated.

5 Replies

SQM

MECHANIC
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

Usually when you just hear a click from the starter, it means the power is going to the starter, but the starter is not engaging the drive to turn over the engine to start.
Which is likely a bad starter.

Here is a helpful guide:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair

I have attached diagrams below for your reference.

Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you.

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Thursday, March 10th, 2022 AT 10:05 PM

JBEAU

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Hi Sean, thanks for this. I assumed the starter motor as well. Since I wrote you yesterday it has yet to give me fits. It started on the first crank every time today. Is that a common theme when a starter is in the early stages of going out?

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Friday, March 11th, 2022 AT 8:56 PM

SQM

MECHANIC
6,383 POSTS

I have seen weak starter will have intermittent starting issues. Like it will click a few times then will start. And it might start just fine for several more times than all of a sudden will not start and just click.
Usually this will simply stop working all together after a while.

Keep in mind this symptom can also be triggered by a loose connection to the starter. So making sure the cables are secure and clean is a good idea.

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Friday, March 11th, 2022 AT 10:34 PM

JBEAU

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Okay my friend, I'll double check the cables but initial visual looked fine. You've been more than helpful, especially with the diagrams. This is my first time using 2CarPros and I'm very impressed. Will definitely be returning and recommending.

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Friday, March 11th, 2022 AT 11:35 PM

SQM