2000 Avalon starting problems

[eppoh]

Hi,
New to this forum and new to Avalons.
We just bought a 2000 XLS from an individual.
Three days after we got it home it is has starting problems.
It takes three or four tries to get the engine to turn over. New battery too.

Here is the strange part... my key works fine. My wife is the one having trouble. We have a third key and it has trouble too.

I have never had a key with a chip, and don't understand what they are supposed to do.

My key, which is kinda grey works okay. The other two , which are black are the problems.

Oh yeah, when using the problem keys, everything else comes on with the ignition switch as normal.

The car is in good shape with 137000 miles on it.

[shortrun]

Hopefully you get some real answers, but I'll share my thoughts.

First I'd call the dealer and ask the question above, about the black and grey keys. Asking is free.

There is information if you google "Transponder keys". It explains how they work.

It does make sence to me what your seeing with the black (probably original) keys not working well. Keep us informed.

[toyomoho]

If the key is on a key ring, take it off and try it.

[eppoh]

Remembering that the previous owner said he had just installed a new battery,I decided to check the battery cables.I just tried to wiggle them, but they both seemed tight.

Ever since then it has started every time with any key.

Strange.. I am supposing there must have been a connection problem with the battery.

Cannot figure how one transponder would work while another wouldn't with a loose battery connection.

[silverxls]

could just be strange coincidence with the keys..... it sounds like you have all 3 original keys....the black ones are full function and the grey one is the valet key....it shouldn't open the glove box or trunk.