For the last several weeks my 98 LX470 has been difficult to start. I turn the key and there is nothing. No clicking, no trying to turn over. I do this 5-6 times in the morning before it starts. Then, the car usually starts normally the rest of the day. It seems the longer it sits, the more likely the problems before starting. The problem is now worsening. I had the dealer check the problem at the 90K maintenance about 3 weeks ago. They said the starter was fine and did not detect any other problem. Any ideas what might be causing this issue? Thanks.

 

I suspect starter contacts. How did the dealer check, by just starting the car to see if it started on the first attempt? Of course it will, 'cause it's at the dealership! The only way to really be sure it's okay is to pull the starter, meaning remove the intake manifold and all those tubes. I doubt they did this, as it's a few hour job. You can buy a new OEM starter (actually might be reman) for around $200+$30 core at toyota-parts.com, or buy the contacts and plunger for under $50. I'm sure the dealer would charge at least $500 to replace the starter.

 

Just took to dealer as it was taking longer and longer to start. I have an extended warranty which covers it. I assume if they replace the entire starter I will be good as new. Am I right? If the entire starter is replaced that should cover contacts and plunger, too. As you can see, I do not know too much about engines.

 

Yes, the dealer generally won't replace the contacts, only the entire starter unit (it's not worth their time, plus why would they replace $50 in contacts/plunger when they can sell you one for $300 list [or bill lexus under warranty]). Labor is about the same regardless. Since it's under warranty, you might have to wait until it's totally dead or at least demonstrate it won't start easily, unfortunately.

 

Thanks for the info Jim.

 

Mine is doing something similar in my GS, although it clicks, and starts right after a 30 45 seconds after the first click.

I believe my problem is related to the weather. When it gets below 50, it clicks, and has no problem throughout the rest of the day. I'm just gonne replace my starter cuz here in minnesota, its about to get real cold real soon.

 

Sounds good. I am off to pick mine up from the dealer with a new starter. I am good to go.

 

Great! It's a big job, as you have to pull the intake manifold (top part of the engine underneath the cover) plus all those hoses, etc. It's like a 6 hr job though someone who's done it before could probably do it in 4 hrs. Did they tell you how much they normally charge? I would guess 3-4 hrs labor plus $300 for the starter, so $600-700?