starting problem

[lilhoodlum86]

hey guys,

my 1997 camry, automatic, starts sometimes and doesn't sometimes.

when it doesn't start, it only makes a click and then notghing happens. sometimes i have to turn the key like that like 15 times and then the engine will turn.....

sometimes it'll start right up without a problem......


i am thinking the starter is going out.........??? i just need a second opinion....what do u guys think?

[RIP]

Very well could be the starter but, there are other players in this scenerio. When the starting system is working correctly as you turn the key to start, voltage travels from the battery through the ignition switch, then through the neutral safety switch (NSS), starter relay, and finally to the starter solenoid on the starter. The solenoid contact completes a path to ground directly from the battery and through the starter motor to ground. Thats when the starter begins to turn the engine.

Some easy things to try if you're not handy with a multimeter (none are fool proof):
> Make sure the connections at the battery and starter are clean and tight. If you have to disconnect the starter connections, make sure you disconnect the battery first unless you like fireworks and pain.
> Next time you hear only a click, tap the starter with a hammer. If it now starts you need to replace the contacts in the starter or just replace the starter. Tapping the starter frees up a sticking solenoid contact.
> Tap on the starter relay. If it starts, either reseat or replace the relay.
> Wiggle the gearshift slightly forward and back with the key turned to start. If it starts, either adjust or replace the neutral start safety switch. In your case this would be the least likely cause because you are hearing either the starter relay or starter solenoid or both click. This tells you voltage is passing through the ignition switch and NSS, then on to the starter relay. However, if the NSS contacts are corroded or slightly out of adjustment, it may only pass part of the required voltage. As I said, not likely.

If you can use a meter (nearly fool proof):
> With the key turned to start, check for 12vdc at the solenoid connection (small gauge wire) on the starter. If the voltage is there and it's not starting, replace the starter contacts or the starter. This is telling you voltage is passing through all the components to the starter but, the starter is malfunctioning. If you're not seeing the voltage, go to the starter relay, then the NSS, then the ignition switch and determine which is at fault. It's a process of elimination.

You can look through the "no start" section in the "Camry FAQs" and the "Camry Factory Manuals" threads at the top of the forum for more info.

[lilhoodlum86]

thanks alott for the detailed information...

i will test as u suggested and report backk..

thanks again

[DFBonnett]

You might find some relevant information here...
http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTricks/Starter.shtml

[Mike Gerber]

After running the tests RIP suggested, you will most likely find out you have bad starter solenoid contacts. Here's a link to an article on how to replace them yourself:

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbul...d.php?t=166530

Mike