Start delay issue - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

DaveServo · 12-01-2009, 09:17 AM

So, the last few week when I go out to start my '97 Corolla there's sometimes a second or so delay after I turn the key where there's nothing and then it starts right up. This morning I turned the key and got dash lights and a click the first three turns of the key and then it started right up. When it starts it's not a slow start or anything it starts right up. The strange thing is is that, after that initial start in the morning, it starts up immediately for the rest of the day but then the next morning i get the delay again. I live in MN and it has been getting colder at night so I'm not sure if that has anything to do with it. any ideas?

hungt1999 · 12-01-2009, 09:40 AM

It sounds like the contacts inside the starter motor are about to go

Typically in early stage of the problem, you will hear a click and some delays but the motor will eventually starts

The problem will be getting worse with time, in matter of weeks

The access to the starter motor is a bit akward but it is only 2 bolts. Buy the starter contact kit at the dealer for about $30. You can also find aftermaket kit for less.

DaveServo · 12-01-2009, 09:52 AM

So, would it be very difficult for me to get the starter out? Also, once out, are you saying I can fix it with a starter contact kit? How difficult might that all be for a semi-noob like me? And just out of curiosity, why would it only give me a problem in the morning?

TI-CAVA · 12-01-2009, 10:07 AM

autozone has manuals on it's web page, it's easy but with a manual it will be easyer

hungt1999 · 12-01-2009, 10:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DaveServo

So, would it be very difficult for me to get the starter out? Also, once out, are you saying I can fix it with a starter contact kit? How difficult might that all be for a semi-noob like me? And just out of curiosity, why would it only give me a problem in the morning?

Don't rule out other causes yet. First check if your battery and alternator are good.

In my case, at the beginning the starter clicking problem typically happens in the morning after the car has sat for a while. Eventually, it will happen anytime.

It is not that difficult to remove the starter motor, it is just a bit awkward. You have to play contortionist a bit. I removed it by accessing by laying belly flat on top of the engine bay and stretching my arm below the engine compartment to remove the 2 bolts.

Once you remove the starter motor, you can open it and change the contacts yourself, very easy.

I bought the contact repair kit at my Toyota dealer here in Canada for $30 but it should be cheaper in the USA or at Autozone etc.

The parts you need are: 28226 and 28226A

http://www.toyodiy.com/parts/p_U_199...HDKK_1904.html

DaveServo · 12-02-2009, 03:16 PM

Thanks for all the input1 I ordered the parts from Toyota (no one in the cities had them as far as I could find) but then it dawned on me that the starter has been replaced in this car at least once. Will the parts I ordered fit the current starter? I'm reasonably sure the current one (which I think was a rebuilt) isn't a stock Toyota starter.

hungt1999 · 12-02-2009, 03:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DaveServo

Thanks for all the input1 I ordered the parts from Toyota (no one in the cities had them as far as I could find) but then it dawned on me that the starter has been replaced in this car at least once. Will the parts I ordered fit the current starter? I'm reasonably sure the current one (which I think was a rebuilt) isn't a stock Toyota starter.

Hmm that is tricky, I guess you will find out after you remove the starter

how much it cost the replacement contacts by the way?

trife96 · 12-02-2009, 09:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DaveServo

Thanks for all the input1 I ordered the parts from Toyota (no one in the cities had them as far as I could find) but then it dawned on me that the starter has been replaced in this car at least once. Will the parts I ordered fit the current starter? I'm reasonably sure the current one (which I think was a rebuilt) isn't a stock Toyota starter.

What parts did you order? A starter? Or just the solenoid?

If they are different brands, that may cause an issue. The starter solenoid may be different somehow. Something small even.

DaveServo · 12-04-2009, 12:47 AM

I ordered parts 28226 and 28226A which are starter contacts. They were around $30 but can be returned if I don't use them.