1999 4Runner Limited Starter Motor Question

[BD72055]

My wife has a 1999 4Runner Limited with a V6 and for the last week it has been hard to start. You have to turn the ignition key 5 or 6 times to get the starter mototr to engage. Ususally we hear a click sound when the starter doesn't crank the engine over.

Has anyone ever changed the starter motor on the 4Runner? Is it easy to reach? I may do this myself, to save time and money. Haven't done this in years, last car I changed a starter motor on was a 1973 Camaro with a 350 V8! Thanks for any advice!

[Jaymes]

My 98 Limited has the same problem as well, but when it DOES start, the engine makes this HUGE whining sound like a supercharger at full psi, and when I take the keys out, the starter motor keeps running and makes scratching sounds I don't know what the problem is, but i'm going to take it to the auto shop to replace the starter.

[michael runyon]

the starter on your 4 runner is a little tricky to change for one reason. unbolting it is easy enough from underneath using a long extension and a 14mm swivel socket. just disconnect the + battery terminal first and then the power wires on the side of the starter(one bolts on with a 10mm nut, the other has a clip style plug). then once you have it unbolted you have to twist it around so it comes out the right side fender well. you will probably have to unbolt the brake line bracket from the frame rail and bend the line out of the way. its not the easiest thing in the world but with a little patience you should be able to do it. good luck with it.

[BD72055]

Thanks guys, I appreciate your advice. I decided against doing this myself because it's a bit tight on space in that area near the starter motor, and due to the lack of time. I have a close friend who owns a gas station and is a very good mechanic doing the work for me tomorrow morning.