Wierd Starting/Ignition Problem

[PolkManiac]

This isn't on my 4Runner, but actually on a Siennna that a friend has. I figured I'd post here and get your thoughts since we have some knowledgeable people around here.

This is a 2000 year model, but only has like 45,000 miles on it.

He's having what appears to be an intermittent starting issue. Sometimes it won't start a few times, but then it'll start right up - sometimes it starts up the first time.

Here's what I know and what he's tried:

1 - He originally thought it was a dead battery, and replaced that - that was before he knew it was intermittent. That didn't fix it.
2 - When it does start, it seems to start right up, doesn't appear to struggle at all to start.
3 - When it does not start, it doesn't sound like the engine is turning over. he said it's just a single click sound and then nothing happens. Then after he tries this one or more times, it will start, again with no issues.

That's about all the information I have. A battery or alternator seems not likely because of the intermittent nature of the problem, would you agree?

What else does that leave? A Starter issue, would that be intermittent and fit the symptoms? What about a problem with the ignition box or wiring- that sounds most likely to me, but I'm not a mechanic.

Any help is appreciated.

 

[jharris2]

I've seen this type of problem with a floating ground. Check to ensure the battery terminals and clamps are clean and that the ground is clean and tight.

Always easiest to start with the simple stuff first.

 

[MrTom]

There is a switch connected to the transmission lever. It prevents the vehicle from starting in any position but Park. Dirty/corroded/failing switch or contacts will give will produce intermittent starting as described.
This happened to a Supra that I owned.

 

[toto]

I don't know what powertrain is in the 2000 Sienna, but this is a common problem on the 3.4L V6 used in 4Runners and Tacomas around that time. Exact same symptoms - the starter either works fine, or else you turn the key and "click"... nothing happens. And it's intermittent, getting worse over time.

The problem is that the power contacts inside the starter wear out.

Here's what I did to a 2000 Tacoma.
http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/t138611.html

 

[chip4]

Ditto the starter -that is toyota's weakest link. Ive had those things fail in my 4cyl 92Pickup/99 4runner, starter solenoid no longer engages correctly, I have heard there is something that looses its concentricity. Its worse in colder weather

If you are in a bind try banging it with a lug wrench while trying to start it.

 

[kimboy]

My fathers 98 sienna had sludge build up in the engine. Make sure thats not the problem.

 

[toto]

Wouldn't the sludge make it hard to crank and turn over?
The original post said the starter did nothing, like an electrical problem.

 

[>MR2turbo4evr<]

My uncles Corolla did that and he found out it was the starter