We have a starting problem in that the car has worked well for the 3 years we've had it. But, just today, it woulfdn't start after we had driven it to many locations here in Oceanside, CA. Tried sbout 3 times to no avail. On the 4th try, it started. So, drove home. Once home, shut it down, then tried to start it and couldn't. Lights work fine. Also get all the warning lights on the dashboard when the ignition is on. Just get a click noise when trying to start. Alternator was replaced about 2 years ago, and we've had no problems since, and it still looks good and connections are still tight. I'm thinking starter. Any thoughts on how to rule it in or out? Or, where to start with this problem? Very novice with this mechanical stuff. Don't mind taking it in somewhere, but don't want to get ripped off either...!
Thanks, Schglerg (Bill).

 

When it fails to crank you should have someone hit the starter with the handle of a hammer while you're turning the key to crank. If it starts then you know you have a bad starter.

 

Thank you, kind Sir! It worked, (doing what you said --- it cranked and started. Also, I tried it again (hitting it with the butt end of a hammer);l but couldn't start it a second time. Maybe I need to be more persistent? Or, is this mostly a "one and done" situation? I hope not, anyway...cuz I need to get it to a shop. Thanks, Bill (schglerg)

 

The starter in my 2003 Camry lasted about a week and a half after I had to hit it to start. It was enough time for me to order a new starter from Amazon. The original starter (Denso) made it to 180k miles.

 

Thanks M/C!
FYI, I decided to replace the starter doing the work myself (after watching You Tube videos on how to do it several times). It's out, and I plan to buy another, then install it shortly. Will let you know how it goes. Thanks for the help along the way. Best, Bill (schglerg)

 

Post back on the progress.

 

For Toyomoho (and Mad Coachman):
I'm back in business thanks to the excellent advice given to me by Mad Coachman! Sure enough --- when I took in the old starter, it tested bad, so I bought another starter, put it in, and YAY it worked perfectly. So, being back in business, just thought I'd extend a KUDO to Mad Coachman for diagnosing ,my problem correctly; and, thusly instilling in me the desire to attempt the repair myself. All is well in Denmark, as they say.

 

Great job. Thanks for posting back.

 

Excellent....glad to help. That same strategy works on most cars where the starter is accessible. Glad you were able to fix it yourself!!!