I have a 1999 LS400 and for three years it takes several times to crank. It usually will always start after several tries. I charge the battery over night and that usually works for several weeks then does it again. I have taken it to the mechanic 3 times and they can't figure it out. They said the only thing they can think to do is replace the starter, but they are hesitant to do that because it is expensive and has no guarantee that that will fix the problem. Any suggestions?

Cathy

 

how many miles are on the car? when you say 'crank' do you mean 'fire', as in it takes a few tries for the engine to fire? or turning the key does not even engage the starter motor, hence your use of the word 'crank'?
unfortunately it does sound like a failing starter but a quick and easy check is to make sure your battery terminals are clean and tightened down properly.

 

And with timmyOtool, we need either a better description of the problem or a video with a sound track of it.
When you turn the key you mean there is no noise? Or you turn the key and it goes "tear rear rear rear rear rear rear" etc. etc. <------this would mean the engine is being turned or cranked. If its just a clunk clunk noise then its likely the solenoid contacts meaning the starter.
Both cases have different solutions so proper description is important.