Intermittent starting problems '98 4Runner

[happaflapp]

Hi all,

I'm new here, and also kind of new to 4runners.

I did a search and it didn't really turn up any thing, so I thought I would just post it. Sorry if it's a repeat subject.

I recently have been experiencing some sort of starting problem with my '98 4runner. It seems that when I turn the key once it does nothing, turn it again it starts right up. I took the battery and had it tested and it was dead. Replaced it, it started right up. Problem solved...Right? But, I'm thinking it could be more than that. I have had my fair share of cars over the years and I know what a dead battery does and doesn't do. Dead batteries usually wont kind of start your vehicle. Either they do or they don't. I saw the diag. print out, and it was dying or dead. The 4runner seems to start OK now, but I'm still not convinced that was it (dead battery). I thoroughly cleaned all terminals, and checked all the connections I could see. My 4runner is equipped with the VIP car alarm system, it also has some sort of other security setup attached to the firewall (2 modules, one has 3 LED's that blink, and one has nothing).

So, I'm wondering if it could be some sort of starter problem, ignition switch. I don't think it is the neutral safety switch. Or, possibly a problem with the security system.

The next couple of cold days here in Ohio will tell the tale. It seems to start fine on warm days, but it acts funny when it is either cold or wet (or both).

Electrical issues can be a real pain, so I thought I would give the guru's here a shot at diag.


Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

 

[toto]

The 3.4L V6 has a notorious problem with the electrical contacts inside the starter wearing out. Turn the key, "click", but no cranking. The problem gets worse over time.

I posted my experience with a 2000 Toyota Tacoma here:
http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/t138611.html

 

[happaflapp]

Thanks toto.

Thats about what I figured. I don't have the facilities or real tools to do that kind of repair. So, I guess I'm looking for a repair shop.

I gather that going to the dealership is a very bad idea (not that I was even considering it).

 

[toto]

A dealer can fix the problem, but they'll only replace the starter as a unit - they won't fix the insides. This is one situation where it's not a ploy by the dealer to rip you off, but instead it's just simple math - the amount of money you'll spend on the labor to replace $25 worth of parts is on par with the cost of a rebuilt starter. It's sad, but we live in a disposable world - if the dealer is doing the work, it's cheaper to replace the whole thing rather than spending additional time to fix the old one.