trouble starting

[kyleb]

My runner is having trouble starting. It just started today. Its like the battery keeps dying, but as soon as it gets hooked up to another car's battery it starts right up. I'm pretty sure its not the starter or the alternator because once it starts it will run forever. Its almost as if the battery loses charge as it sits. I would think that it's the battery except for the fact that it never really seems to need a charge and the indicator light on the battery shows that it is ok.
I don't know how old the battery is; i just got the 4runner in March.
Also, i work in colorado in the summers (i live in college station, tx during the school year), so i dont know if altitude or the long drive had anything to do with this problem.
Sorry if my problem doesnt make much sense, i tried to explain the best i could.
Anyways, any help would be appreciated.
Thanks guys.
-Kyle

 

[Ron Helmuth]

strictly conjecture by me

I am 45 years old and the symptoms you describe are a bad battery. I have had 2 or 3 go out with the same symptoms you describe-I think it makes some sense-you get a jump and it fires right up.

To be sure go to an Auto Zone or other parts store that will verify this -with a tester -before they sell you a new one. It is my guess that high underhood temperatures have contributed to your battery's demise.... If not the battery they should be able to show you what part of the electrical system is failing you.