Hi, my 2000 rx300 (124k) have a strange starting issue. When I turn the key the first time it acts like it's out of battery (brand new battery), all electrons on but motor won't turn. I have to turn pull the key out for a few second and turn it again (sometimes 3 tries).

it get worse on a colder day. do not have this issue after running the engine for a while.

any idea?

thx

 

It sounds to me like it could be the contacts on the starter solenoid. This is not an uncommon problem and has been written about in the past. Some have located the replacement contacts as a Toyota replacment part, and have not had to replace the whole solenoid. Anyway, that's my guess.

 

thx. I notice this morning when i insert the key, a strange sound come next to the oil pan.

 

If you haven't done any work recently to cause something out of the ordanary, I would agree its your starter. When mine failed, it would click. Semi-Rapid turning of my key, and it would usually catch and start. It is easy to replace. It is on top of the transmission. Next to your air box. Do a search on "starter replacement" or something similar to that. Good luck.

 

I had the same exact problem - battery fine but sometimes when you turned the key...nothing. Then out of the blue, it turned over after fiddling around with the key and trying multiple times. I ended up replacing the starter DIY style. It really wasn't that hard to do and if you have minimal mechanical inclination, you won't have any issues. I was lucky, my neighbor works at Toyota and I got a starter there for $190. As Barryst mentioned, do a search for starter replacement.

 

Here is a do it yourself on Denso starters....
http://www.nationsautoelectric.com/instructions.html

 

will try to replace the starter when the weather gets warmer. hope it carry me thru the cold weather

 

You can replace the starter solenoid contacts for $10. delivered to your door or replace the starter with a rebuilt for about $200. The choice is yours, but I have had a number of the Denso starters apart and I can tell you for a fact, the starter will last the life of the vehicle, the solenoid contacts are the only thing that ever goes wrong with them.

 

thx. btw, I notice one website, suggest I replace the plunger with the contact. Is that necessary?

Also, can someone tell me why the contact will worn out? it appears to be a solid piece of medal.

 

i got the start bolt removed. but how do u remove the two electrical cable?

thx everyone