96 Corolla - Delayed starting

[rsmacca58]

My 96 Corolla has a new battery. After hearing some clicking and knowing the age, I replaced the battery. It was due and it tested low on voltage. It worked fine for a few days. Then, the car would only start after the ignition switch is turned on for 3-4 seconds. There is a delay but it will kickin. Any clues what may be going on? Bad ignition switch? Is there a relay I need to check? Possibly the solenoid?
Thanks

[ganda1f]

You turn the key, there is a single click and then nothing?
Most likely worn copper contacts in the switchbox on the starter. Get the starter out, replace the contacts and you should be good to go.

[REN69]

^thinking starter as well here... probably time for a rebuild.

[pdq]

It's the starter. I had the exact same issue 6 months ago. Single click but no crank.

The solenoid (electrical part of the starter) has copper contacts that get worn down after 100k miles or so. You can buy replacement contacts for $25 if you are a DIYer, or you can buy a remanufactured starter for ~150, in which someone else has replaced the contacts.

[rsmacca58]

Started to replace the starter when I checked my records that it was replaced in 2006. I tightened everything and put back together. I did not pull starter. Haven't had a problem since. Go figure.....

Thanks all for assistance.

[ganda1f]

If you disconnected the positive wire from the starter (or even tightened it a bit) then you probably moved/rotated the copper contacts ever so slightly and now the surfaces can make good contact. Or you simply had a poor connection on some wire.
Good to hear you got it sorted out.