Hey guys,

This morning the CL started up fine, no problems at all on my way to work. Later on that night to drive home it wouldn't start. I thought maybe it was the battery, but all lights, guages, ect were working fine. I had a buddy boost me just incase it was the battery and the car still didn't turn over.

My buddy thinks it's the starter but I'm not sure how I can tell, when I turn the key it makes it's normal noises, except when I turn it all the way to start I get no sound at all, not even that clicking sound you get if you hold the ignition too long. Actually it makes like one click when you try it but that's it, the click is very faint though, I hope I'm not screwed?!

Any suggestions on why the car won't start, and if there's a way to test it or temporarily get it to work so I can bring it to a garage. Also what my best option is for repair if it is the starter? Any help would be greatly apprecited since my car is left in the parking lot at work, thanks in advance.

 

A single loud click but no starter turn-over is failed starter solenoid contacts. On some starters the contacts can be replaced, others require a new solenoid, or new starter. Removal may be difficult on the 3L V6. I know it is on the 3.2V6 in TL's.

good luck

 

i have this exact issue, its been happening for sometime intermittently it would not start, just do the 1 click (almost as if the clutch wasn't pressed down), but if i play with the key, it'll start, sometimes turn over slowly and not start, but then on the next try it would start right away.

anyways, this morning it didn't start at all. i tried it a few times, then proceeded to push the car out of the way so i can take the 4runner to work. (i haven't tried the hammer trick or even to manual jump the start or test anything) my initial thoughts were dead starter, b/c it almost sounds like the solenoid is engaging just the motor wont turn.

 

What's happening is the solenoid throws and starter engages the flywheel. However, the solenoid electrical contacts are not fully connected and there is no or too little current to turn the starter. Once solenoid contacts are worn, they will reach a point where no amount of repeated keyswitch movements will secure a start. A new starter or solenoid repair is necessary. I have not seen the solenoid for sale as a unit, but it may be available. Some solenoids are not repairable.

good luck