How to Troubleshoot a Toyota Starter

Troubleshooting a Toyota starter systems is usually very straightforward.

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Toyota starting systems typically require very little maintenance. So long as you keep the battery fully charged and the connections clean and tight, problems are rare. Troubleshooting is usually very straightforward: Any failure is either electrical or mechanical. A simple visual inspection will often reveal the likely cause. If not, continue with additional tests depending on the symptoms. This may include checking the starter motor current draw, voltage drop, operation and continuity. If the cause is still elusive, bench-test the starter motor and replace it if necessary.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Basic shop tools
• Battery tester
• Digital volt-ohm meter (DVOM)

Suggest Edits

1. Engine Will Not Crank

   • 1

     Check the state of battery charge. Recharge or replace if necessary.

   • 2

     Check the fusible link. Replace it if melted.

   • 3

     Check all connections. Clean and tighten if necessary.

   • 4

     Check ignition switch operation. Replace if necessary.

   • 5

     Check the operation of the magnetic switch, relay, neutral start switch or clutch switch. Replace as needed.

   • 6

     Check for mechanical problems with the engine. Repair if necessary.

   • 7

     Check for problems with the theft-deterrent system. Repair if necessary.

   Engine Cranks Too Slowly to Start

   • 1

     Check the state of battery charge. Recharge or replace if necessary.

   • 2

     Check all connections. Clean and tighten if necessary.

   • 3

     Test the starter motor. Repair or replace if necessary.

   • 4

     Check for mechanical problems with the engine. Repair if necessary.

   Starter Keeps Running, or Does Not Engage/Disengage Properly

   • 1

     Check the pinion or ring gear for wear or damage. Replace as needed.

   • 2

     Test the starter pull-in and hold-in coils. Replace as needed.

   • 3

     Check the ignition key for damage. Replace as needed.

   • 4

     Check the ignition switch and circuit components. Replace as needed.

   Starter Spins but Will Not Crank

   • 1

     Check the over-running clutch for proper operation. Both conventional and gear reduction starter motors are fitted with a one-way, over-running clutch to prevent damage to the starter when the engine starts. Replace if necessary.

   • 2

     Test the starter pull-in and hold-in coils. Replace as needed.

   • 3

     Check the pinion or ring gear for wear or damage. Replace as needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Before doing any testing for starter system issues, first visually inspect the battery, the starter, the ignition switch and the park/neutral position or clutch start switch.

• Take precautions to avoid possible injury or damage to the vehicle. Remove any jewelry that might contact battery terminals before beginning any inspection. Wear safety glasses and protective clothing.