99 Camry now will occasionally not turn over at start up.

Turn the key and hear one click and nothing happens. Sometime later it will start. Often when it does start, at turing the key I will hear one click then there is a short pause before the starter in activated.

I have replaced the battery and installed new battery cable end clamps. The parts store said the alternator and starter were fine according to their test. There seems to be lots of power for the other electronics when the engine is off but the starting issue is still there.

Could this be a relay? If so where is it and how can it be tested?

Thanks

 

Check starter relay solenoid attached to the starter motor. Follow the large red battery cable to the solenoid.

The internet has many posts on on testing the solenoid. If the problem the Toyota dealer sells a kit containing new electrical contacts which can be replaced without removing the solenoid or starter motor.

 

are you saying it's a solenoid issue?
Does the problem occur when you are starting after a long rest?or it happen every time you start even stopping for a while and run again?

 

Is it really possible to replace the contacts and plunger *without* removing the starter? I was wondering that, but all the internet videos/guides talk only about removing the starter first. (1999 Camry 4-cyc -- tried unsuccessfully to remove the rear bolt on the starter!)

Thanks!

 

Take out the solenoid parts from the end cover (has three bolts) with starter on.

Typically no need to replace the plunger, just contacts.

 

Thanks for the reply. Is there enough access space to the bolt holding the rear contact?

 

Yes. The contacts are "L" shaped, the electrical studs protruding from the case hold them on. The studs are near the cover. Dealer should have parts.

When diagnosing, if possible best to wait for failure to start, then check parts.