Starter died in 2005 4.7

[Billynath1988]

Well after 13 years of flawless reliability, the starter died today while out running errands. 170k.

What are some things that might as well get replaced at the same time as changing out the starter since it's pretty well buried in the engine?

 

[Hungryhawk]

Start issue

First I would have a non-dealer electric specialist confirm it is actually the starter.
I had the same problem with a high mileage 2004 Pilot. Local dealer told me it was starter (expensive). I towed it to my independent shop for a second opinion. They kept it a couple of days and tested it multiple times and they found a corroded/worn main relay. Which is a $50 part!
Original Starter continued to function fine with new relay.

 

[thennen]

First I would have a non-dealer electric specialist confirm it is actually the starter.
I had the same problem with a high mileage 2004 Pilot. Local dealer told me it was starter (expensive). I towed it to my independent shop for a second opinion. They kept it a couple of days and tested it multiple times and they found a corroded/worn main relay. Which is a $50 part!
Original Starter continued to function fine with new relay.

Agreed. I've had numerous Toyotas since 1982, about 1.5 million miles total. mileages were 305k, 265k, 230k, several 200k+, etc., and have never replaced a starter in a Toyota.

 

[Billynath1988]

I can hear the starter trying to engage but not grabbing the flywheel. It had made some weird noises beforehand, I brought it to the shop, which my local shop confirmed was the starter not disengaging fast enough and lightly contacting the flywheel.. Which is generally a sign that the end is near... Then one day it stopped grabbing the flywheel altogether.