Yesterday my van would not start, or crank over?

2004 TOYOTA SIENNA

AUTOMATIC

OATES24

MEMBER
1 POST

Yesterday my van would not start, or crank over. Does NOT click (sound) when you turn the key. Lights and electrical work. Battery tested to be at 12.5 volts. I bought a NEW battery (4) months ago. We jump stated it and it started right up. I drove it home 30 miles. Shut it off at home. Then tried to start it again…It would NOT start up.

Then this morning I tried to start it…It wouldn’t start again. Then I popped the hood hatch to check out the Fuses. I tried starting the van. BUT NOW The starter is in the staying Engage motion. (continues running). I quickly took off a battery cable and it STOPPED.

Aug 1, 2026 at 2:26 PM

STRAILER

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
54,896 POSTS

The staying engaged part says the battery is weak, so I would remove it and have it tested it maybe defective. If it tests okay I would install a new starter motor. Here is a video to help and I have included a basic guide to help you change the starter out with instructions below to help you with your car.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6YRW8fyNudY&pp=0gcJCaMLAYcqIYzv

and

https://2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-starter-motor/

Check out the images (below). Please let me know what happens.

Images (Click to enlarge)

Professional Diagram for 2CarPros Members
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Aug 1, 2026 at 5:22 PM

KRAKENAUTO

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
51 POSTS

It is possible you have another bad battery HOWEVER I would definitely get it tested first and ensure it is charged to sufficient voltage and see how it acts then. If it is still an issue, start with the starter (instructions on that are above from another tech). Any further issues let us know so we can help you further.

Aug 1, 2026 at 8:54 PM