Solenoid- replace?

[RadioFlyer90]

My wife's '98 Camry 4-cyl. has developed a starting problem. Sometimes, when we turn the key, we get a good, solid click, but no crank. Sometimes it does this once, sometimes lots of times. When it does crank, it cranks over well and starts right up. I cleaned the battery terminals, and nothing changed. I suspect the solenoid is bad, but the solenoid is very expensive. The only other thing I can imagine is that the starter is bad, but it is expensive as well. Has anyone else had this problem? Should I suck it up and replace the whole unit? Is there a quick fix for the existing parts?

[new echo owner]

Replace the starter contacts.

N.E.O.

[Mike Gerber]

I agree. Sounds like the common worn starter solenoid contacts problem. Do a search on this forum for "Starter Contacts". The subject and it's repair options have been covered many times on this forum.

Mike