Need Your Help ---AGAIN - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

bsfarr · 02-25-2011, 02:33 PM

Hi, all I need some ideas from you all -- again. So far the last 2 problems I had you all nailed it on the head. YEAH. I have a 92 toyota celica st. A few times in the past when it was really rainy out I would have a bit of trouble starting. It would always "turn over" though. I know distrib. or cap. RIGHT? Then all the sudden the other day (was cold but not wet) I had been out driving all day no problems. An hour later car won't even turn over. Kinda clicks. So I am thinking starter right? Then one of the guys I was talking to here at my condo said I may be wrong that it may be the distrb not starter. I need to know cuz I am having one of those mobile guys come fix it. He charges $50 more to diagnoise. I know you experts probably know and hopefully save me the fifty. Could the distrb make the engine not even "turn" and just click? I have a brand new battery so I know its not that plus the radio and lights are normal. Please help. thanks

RobMilkshakes · 02-25-2011, 04:29 PM

Thee distributor could cause the engine to not run, but will have no bearing whatsoever when it comes to the starter. If you only hear a click when you turn the key and do not hear the whine of the strarter spinning the engine then its either the battery does not have the amperage to turn the starter over, or the starter motor itself has died. Its a good idea to check the cables, battery terminals, and ground points, but most likely you just have a faulty battery or starter.

Most autoparts stores do bench tests of starters and batteries for free, if you have transportation to one, just pop the battery out and go have it tested, that'll give you a lead in the right direction.

***MR2Jedi*** · 02-25-2011, 05:32 PM

Ditto what Rob said.
2 other possibilities are maybe it's just the solenoid part of the starter or the starter relay.

bsfarr · 02-26-2011, 09:46 AM

I figured it was the starter. As I just replaced the battery and cables. Dist. cap is alot cheaper then starter so was just hoping. I appreciate the advice. I live in a small town so Its tough to find a mechanic that I can trust anyway. There are like 2 I think. lol Thanks again have a great weekend.