Help 2004 starting issue questions

[coopma]

Help!. My 2004 4Runner is having starting problems & is at a mechanic's shop & I need to get back to him with an answer.
Specifically, on my 2004 4Runner I have always been able to just bump the key when starting & it starts. I do not have to fully rotate the key when starting.
Lately it has not started the first time on say 5 occassions over 5 weeks. There is also a whirring noise my mechanic says is caused because after the vehicle starts the starter keeps rotating.
QUESTIONS:
Do other 2004 4Runners start with just bumping the starter?
Should the starter keep rotating after the vehicle starts?

 

[SocalSam]

Ignition switch...maybe.

Trusted 2003-2009 2014-2019 Toyota 4Runner Ignition Starter Switch APISS056 | A-Premium

 

[SocalSam]

Ignition switch...maybe.

Trusted 2003-2009 2014-2019 Toyota 4Runner Ignition Starter Switch APISS056 | A-Premium

Sorry, ignore the link. I can't edit my posts with this stinking forum software.

Part name is correct.

 

[AuSeeker]

On 4th gen 4runners when you turn the ignition to the "start" position you don't have to hold it in that position, normally it will run the starter until the engine starts then the starter will disengage once the engine is running.

If the starter doesn't disengage after the engine starts the starter solenoid is either sticking and wont disengage or there power still being sent to the solenoid keeping it engaged, if your mechanic doesn't know this or can't figure it out he's not a very good mechanic and if possible I would find another mechanic, that's just basic starter 101!

I would start by replacing the solenoid, if that doesn't do it I would replace the ignition switch ignition switch next.

You didn't state if you have the V6 or the V8, I ask because on the V8 working on the starter will get very expensive compared to the V6 because of where the starter is located under the intake manifold and the labor involved to access it!

 

[4R005]

Agreed 100% with what AuSeeker wrote.
When rodents chewed wires to knock sensors of my '05 w/V8 ,I did the tear down of the intake manifold to repair wires. FYI, the intake manifold gasket sets for your 04' w/V8 come in two versions depending on vehicle production date. one set for vehicle production to Oct31/04 and another different set from Nov1/04 to end of gen run. I know cos I had to do the tear down twice, my bad since I rushed and ordered the wrong set. Make sure your flunky mechanic ( if you will be using his services ) is aware of this.

 

[coopma]

Thank you. It's a 2004 with a V8 (love the torque) & my mechanic said it would be difficult aka expensive to get to and replace. Any other advice?

 

[coopma]

Thank you for the advice..... It's a V8. Any other advice?

 

[coopma]

Can you replace just the solenoid and not the entire starter? Would it be ok / less expensive? Or, a bad move?

 

[4R005]

Can you replace just the solenoid and not the entire starter? Would it be ok / less expensive? Or, a bad move?

The solenoid is bolted to the starter body and is under the starter when viewed from above engine. The entire unit ( starter & solenoid ) is removed only as a unit and should be replaced as such IMO.

A Hail Mary last gasp resort worth trying will be to switch the starter relay with an identical known good one ( if there is another and both will be in fuse box in engine bay ) just to eliminate a sticky contact condition in relay which will keep solenoid engaged and starter running after engine is started and running. Good luck.
Reminder: check your VIN # for production date when vehicle was assembled in 2004. A wrong gasket set will fit for assemby but will produce air leaks, error code and illuminate dash lites.