2000 Avalon XL won't start

[rkanchana]

Problem: My car makes ONE click sound every time i try to turn ignition. I try it several times before i get lucky and the car starts. It might sound strange but I discovered that the car would start immediately when I open the door and start the car. Normally the starting problem used to happen the first thing in the morning and never during the rest of the day. but lately it happens any time of the day. I figure that since it does eventually start, I could do it for a while until i had time to check it out and see what's wrong with it.
The other day, i tried to start the car again, but this time it won't start. the battery is good (I got it checked), all the lights are on. I can't even get it to start with my trick of opening the door and cranking it.
Can anyone help me identify what the problem could be and where I should take it to for getting it fixed i.e., a normal repair shop or an auto electric repair shop? I really appreciate your input.

[Nad1370]

Starter....definately a starter.
Assuming all the cables are tight.

It's actually easy to replace . Save you a couple hundred dollars

[toyomoho]

If the engine does not even turn over chances are it is the battery terminals, cables, starter solenoid or starter motor.

You can check the battery terminals for corrosion by removing them from the battery post. Clean the inside of the terminal clamp and outside of the battery terminal then reconnect and give the engine a try.

The solenoid can be tested by using battery jumper cables to route power directly to the starter motor, bypassing the solenoid.

The testing and repairs are not that difficult, any competent auto shop should be able to do the work. Perhaps you have a friend that can do the checking and testing on your car before going to a shop.

[rkanchana]

Thanks for the prompt responses. I checked the battery terminals and the cables, they seem to be in good shape with no corrosion.
Another thing I observed is that if I turn the ignition switch continuously without any gap in time the engine starts after 4 or 5 times. Don't know if that confirms any root cause.
I am kinda new DIYer so, have a couple of questions.
toyomoho - Could you elaborate on the testing methodology for Starter motor or the solenoid. ie., how exactly do we route power directly to the motor? What should the result be when we crank it up if the problem is with the starter motor? and is it that if its not the motor then the problem is the solenoid? Are they both different individual parts I can replace individually or they both come as one unit?
Nad1370 - Could you provide me some instructions on how to replace the starter? were you referring to the motor or the solenoid?

[rkanchana]

Thanks for the input - Could you provide me some instructions on how to replace the starter?

[Nad1370]

Originally Posted by rkanchana

Thanks for the input - Could you provide me some instructions on how to replace the starter?

Sure. I know everybody does it different but since your more like a novice. No offense
Starter is located on top of the trans bolted by 2 14mm bolts.
Take the airbox out
Take the battery out
Swing the cruise control out of the way. held by 3 10mm bolts.
Now the starter is clearly in sight.
Disconnect the single wire connector(black)
Take the 12mm nut out of the starter cable. There is a gray cover on this.
Finally take the 2 14mm bolts out and the strater just pulls out.

Reverse order going back and just sit back and TELL the wife/gf to hand you a beer.

[mauricemel]

I didn't notice starter bearings mentioned.If they are worn enough field coils will magntize the armature and it won't turn.This problem usually comes on gradually.

[silverxls]

i dont know if you've changed the starter yet or not, but your prob is with the solenoid. the copper contacts inside wear over time and it gets to where you hear the click, but no contact. as it gets worse it may take several tries to get it to start. all you need is a 25.00 contact set for the solenoid. there is a seller on ebay called clickerfixer. do a search for him on ebay. i've bought sets from him for a mazda and a honda, and the contacts should also be available at the toyota dealer.

[rkanchana]

Thankyou guys for all the input, I didn't want to take a chance so, bought a starter from a Toyota dealer and replaced the starter as a whole. Took abt cpl of hrs work (to get the proper ratchet extention from the store, etc) It works fine now.