Is my starter going out?

[Longhorn425]

So after having so many cold days in Houston, I noticed my car was very hesitant on starting up. If you turn the key to the ACC setting, all the electronics would work, but the car wouldn't turn over until after a couple of tries. Didn't notice any clicking noises or anything either.

Went to autozone last night and had the battery and alternator checked. Both were working, but the battery had close to no juice left, so I decided to buy a new one. I thought that would solve all problems, but this morning same problem. Car wouldn't turn over the first time after trying to start it up. Is my starter going bad? Not sure what's the issues.

00' 2WD 104k miles.

 

[turbo8]

Check your grounds on the engine and chassis. Make sure there is good contact, clean them with a wire brush if necessary.

What is your current battery voltage while off and while running?

 

[Rayford]

It is probably not due to the cold weather. In Northern states, cars are expected to run all winter long, year in and year out. Even cars that are not 4Runners. Replacing the battery is never a bad idea if it is 5+ years old and you are in doubt about it. Check the major wire connections including ground wires.

I had a similar problem that was resolved this week through some excellent detective work by my mechanic- an intermittent faulty starting relay.

 

[tarsun]

sounds like the starter contacts to me.

sometimes it would start and sometimes it would not. Windows, lights, and locks all work but it would not even crank or turn over.

 

[sportscarfan]

sounds like the starter contacts to me.

sometimes it would start and sometimes it would not. Windows, lights, and locks all work but it would not even crank or turn over.

^^^This. A lot cheaper to fix compared to a new (or refurbished) starter, but you've still gotta pull it out to change the contacts.