1997 Toyota 4Runner Click No Start

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MREDMAN
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  • 1 POST
1997 Toyota 4 Runner, approximately 110,000 miles, 6 cylinder engine. Sometimes when I turn the ignition to start the engine, all I hear is a single click and nothing happens. There have been times when I have to turn the ignition back to the off position, then try starting it again as many as 3-4 times before the engine starts. Sometimes I take the key out and retry. There are also times when it starts with no problems on the first try. It doesn't seem to matter whether the engine is hot or cold. Is this a bad starter or hopefully a cheaper repair?
Apr 18, 2007 at 3:34 AM
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RASMATAZ
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 75,988 POSTS
I would check the ignition switch starter control circuit going to the starter to make sure its getting power when key in start position a few times-if its intermittent-the problem could be the ignition switch or the neutral safety switch.
Apr 18, 2007 at 7:32 AM

Suggested Repair

Check the starter control circuit from the ignition switch for power with the key in start. If power is intermittent, suspect the ignition switch or the neutral safety switch.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1997 Toyota 4Runner with about 110,000 miles reports an intermittent no-crank: a single click, then nothing, sometimes requiring several key cycles before it starts, whether hot or cold. The expert recommends verifying that the starter control circuit receives power in the start position and, if that signal is intermittent, checking the ignition switch or neutral safety switch.

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