99 Corolla intermittant starting problem

[wmcot]

My 99 Corolla has developed an intermittant starting problem. The first thing in the morning, there is often nothing happening when I turn on the key (with the engine, that is - lights come on, etc.) On the second attempt it starts just fine. My battery was the original (5 - 6 years old) so I replaced it and things seemed to be better for a week or so. Then, the same thing happened. It hasn't been that cold in Salt Lake City (30's and 40's) and the car can sit out in the cold the whole day while I am at work and starts with no problem. It's only the first start in the morning. Any ideas? How about starter solenoid contacts?

It's only a little annoying, not a real problem - YET!!!

[deekay140]

replace the starter

[CraigW]

You could remove clean and tighten the large and small connectors that go to the starter. I think you may have the classic Toyota starter problem.

[wmcot]

I had the starter solenoid contact problem with my '89 Camry. Is the starter in the '99 Corolla the same or similar?

[CraigW]

Similar design for sure. Check out the links in the Trucks section, Great source of info. If/when my starter gives trouble I plan to visit a local auto electrical shop to see if they will repair my starter instead of replacing it with a rebuilt unit.

[dlichterman]

is it clicking when you turn it?
on my 98 rolla it would click and then start after another few tries. 60 dollar starter contact job

[wmcot]

Originally Posted by CraigW

Similar design for sure. Check out the links in the Trucks section, Great source of info. If/when my starter gives trouble I plan to visit a local auto electrical shop to see if they will repair my starter instead of replacing it with a rebuilt unit.

Actually, I bought my '89 Camry's first replacement starter from Auto Zone which came with a lifetime guarantee. When it went out again, I got a free one.


As far as clicking when I turn the key on, it happens so infrequently that I haven't really noticed (windows rolled up, etc.) Then next turn of the key always starts it.

Today I did notice that on the first try, the key did not turn smoothly in the ignition. The second time it turned normally and started. I'm not sure if it's a coincidence or the ignition switch could be the problem. I'll have to keep an eye on it.

[CraigW]

Yes, keep a close eye and ear. If the plunger sticks it will keep the starter engaged, and thats not good.

[cassandra]

How were you able to fix this problem? I'm having the same problem with my 98 Corolla -- I have to turn the key several times before it starts, but like you, this problem usually happens in the morning, not after the car has been running.

[wmcot]

My problems all cleared up with a new key. I had a problem with the key not opening the door locks sometimes, so I had a new key made - no more starter problem. (Lucky one, I guess)