96 camry problems starting in wet weather

[bamsden]

Problem typically presents in the AM during moist, humid or rainy weather. Turn key in ignition and get the following:

1) no response from the engine, no engine sounds at all.
2) all dash lights come on
3) AC comes on

I turn over the key several times and this repeats everytime until about the 5th-10th try. Then the engine turns over as though nothing were wrong and runs fine. I suspect the starter is starting to fail but the wet weather aspect makes me think it is the distributer.

Any help diagnosing this problem would be appreciated. Thanks!!

[somick]

I have to agree with you: it sounds like the starter... but how about regular tune up? Spark plugs, wires, distributor cap?

Sam

[Mike Gerber]

"1) no response from the engine, no engine sounds at all."

If you are not hearing 1 click, then it's probably not your starter. Listen carefully next time this happens or have someone else turn the key while you listen in the engine compartment. If there really is no click sound, then it's probably some thing other than the starter. My guess would be loose or corroded battery terminal connections or possibly corrosion on the cable at the starter. Damp weather can make this connection/corrosion type of problem worse. If you do hear one click and then nothing happens, then you probably do have the infamous starter solenoid contacts problem. Do a search on this forum for that. I think it is also in the FAQ's.

Mike

[evhgame]

Due to the fact that ALL your dash lights come on, this is a classic warning that there may be a problem with your battery. I have a 90 Ford Probe that does the same thing and I owned a 84 Camry that did it. I replaced the alternator, and the thing that was draining my battery and it was good to go. Also instead of just doing the basic voltage battery test, take it to a shop and have it load teted to make sure the battery is good. I think there is a battery drain.

[DFBonnett]

Sounds like the contacts in the solenoid. Some good info here...

http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTri...tml#References

If the problem was in the distributor, it would at least crank if not start. The total silence with accessories working makes me believe starter and especially those contacts in the solenoid.
FWIW
YMMV

[solidg]

Originally Posted by semyonlibman

I have to agree with you: it sounds like the starter... but how about regular tune up? Spark plugs, wires, distributor cap?

Sam

I agree

plz let us now what it turns out to be