Starting Problem

[scottmunster]

My girlfriend has a 92 Corolla and she seems to be having a little starting problem. I don't know a whole lot about cars so just bear with me. But whenever she runs it for a while (especially on the freeway) once it's turned off it won't start again. There is absolutely no power when you crank it over. Nothing happens. I've talked to some friends and one suggested that the solenoid (spelling??) is expanding and just has to cool down. Well after it sits for a while it starts back up so I'm guess he's right. However I want to fix it for her. Does the starter for a 92 Corolla have an internal solenoid? And if it does I would just have to replace the starter and the problem should be solved.... correct? Any help or advice from you car genius's would be greatly appreciated.
Scottmunster

[thespud]

The starter does have an internal solonoid yes. Just change the starter (or if you are electrically minded, rebuild it) and it will be as good as new.

[EMEX]

Mostl likely it is the starter. I would suggest taking the car to the toyota specialist, or asking them about it. Because it would really suck if you spend time and money on something that was perfectly well.

[REN69]

The AE92 Corollas (88-92) are known for heat soak, the starter is located right under the exhaust manifold which is a bad location because all the heat from the manifold goes right to the starter, overheating it and causing this problem. Happens to me all the time in the summer, specially on long driving periods. A new starter will solve the problem, but it will eventually come back anyways.

[redgtxdi]

What you *could* do is take it over to an AutoZone (or other *helpful* parts store near you) and they can hook the pos/neg up to a battery or one of their battery machines and they can test it for you.

To get it as hot as it would normally, they should only have to fire it a few times and let some electrical heat build up. If the guy knows what he's doing, he'll be able to tell you for sure whether it's good or not.

Then, if it is bad, you can typically pick up a "rebuilt" starter right there on the spot. Then go bolt the new one back in & you're good to go!!

Now, I don't know the Corolla engine compartment, so if the starter is a *behotch* to get out, then this is all easier said than done!!