Starter, Starting Issues..

[ValWicked]

Vehicle: 2006 4Runner SR5, V6, 150k miles.

Symptoms:

I turn the key and get a loud clicking noise. I turn the key again and then it starts.

It has a new and fully charged battery.

How can I diagnose whether or not I have a bad starter motor, starter solenoid, starter switch or starter relay?

Or anything else?

BTW, thanks to this site I've been able to diagnose and repair both front brake calipers, a faulty tailgate latch and other minor issues.

"I am the warranty!"

 

[Seymore Butts]

Is the clicking coming from the relay box or the starter?

 

[ValWicked]

Is the clicking coming from the relay box or the starter?

As loud as the click is I'll assume from the starter but am currently unsure. I'll have to put a set of ears under the hood to check.

 

[TowMeOut]

Hmmm.....same year, engine, and approximate mileage. Nearly the same symptoms. I didn't get the click then try again and start. Mine was more the click, click, click.....damnit, damnit, click, damnit, vroommmmm.

I was pretty sure my starter was toast. After reading several threads I was convinced that a "rebuild" of replacing the plunger and contacts was necessary. I was short on time and needed my truck back so I ran to the parts store for a replacement. Before I headed out I pulled the unit apart to check the condition of the contacts. They didn't look bad so I gave them a scrub with a bit of emory cloth.

I tried to test it using a spare 12v battery as was convinced it was toast (would still only click). When I took it to the parts store they put it on their tester and it came back good. Well within specs....

I reinstalled it and haven't had a "click" since.

There are several threads on removal. I'm not gonna lie....it's a pain. It's much better if you pull the bolts from the front driveshaft where it connects to the differential. A combination of a couple of extensions and various length/depth sockets will help.

Good luck!!