Hi,
I have read several postings on starting problem. My problem is similar to some postings.
I stopped Advanced Auto Part. The test showed good starter. But many times I need to crank 20 or 40 times before the car starts. The salesman suggested to check the grounding.

I read kitch428's suggestion on this issue.

First I would check the battery. Do a wiggle test of the positive and negative cables. see if they turn easily by hand on the termanals. Are they heavily corroded?
With a volt meter, see if the voltage is around 12.5V before you start. It's very common to see loose connections.

Next, a very common problem is the Toyota starters. They just click, and then nothing. Dash lights are fine. Then click, and then nothing. And on the next try, it starts. This is caused by starter solenoid contacts inside the starter. It will need replacing for that.
Hope this helps.

My question is if the problem is starter solenoid contacts inside the starter. Does it mean I need to change the starter or It is possible just to change part of it?

The battery is just a few month old.

Thanks.

TxGreaseMonkey

Usually, kitch428 recommends only installing starter motors rebuilt by Toyota. It will be interesting to see what he recommends, in response to your question.

CaptainRich

Extended cranking time isn't usually a problem with the starter. It's usually a problem with fuel pressure/volume. Have the fuel pressure tested.
What year is your Corolla? On some of the newer models, the pump is accessed from under the rear passenger seat, thus making the replacement much easier.

xliu63

The corolla was 1997. It has 160k on it. I did notice higher pressure built up when refilling the gas tank. I have Advanced auto parts checked the starter, the result was a good starter. he suggested me to check the negative and whether the ground is ok.

How to measure fuel pressure?

I am also in Florida

CaptainRich

Due the possibility of injury or fire, fuel pressure testing should be done by a qualified tech.
Special test equipment is required to do the test:



The actual test to be performed is resting or residual fuel pressure, so the test should be done after the car has sat overnight.

Safety is paramount.
If you choose to attempt testing yourself, wear safety glasses and have an A/B fire extinguisher nearby.

kitch428

Well to me it sounds like a starter. Want some proof? Since you have the starter out, take the back cover off with 3 8mm bolts holding it in place, pull that off. Pull the plunger out. Now look at the 2 copper contacts shaped like 1/4 moons. Especially the larger one.
If it looks like 2/3rds of it is gone, there's your problem.

Are you saying you get a click but no starter engagment repeatedly? Then this is it.
You need a reman starter from Toyota.
Aftermarket starters do not last in a Toyota. They're basically junk in my book.

xliu63

Thanks all for help. I kind of settled on fuel injection issue. The fluel line may be too dirty. When I push the gas padle many times the starting is easier. I put in one bottle of fuel injection cleaner, it helps a little. Yesterday I did not have much issue. Last week I spent several minutes to start the car.

xliu63

after struggled with the problem on and off for about a year, the problem now become so severe. I searched the internet and decided to change the starter.

I bought a used one for $35. The starter was in a very awkward position and very difficult to remove. But with patient, and one 14 mm tool, I am able to replace the starter and the problem disappeared right away.

The problem is in the copper contact in the starter. There is spring loaded plunger, once energized, it moved down to touch the two copper contacts. However one of the contact was wore out, while the other piece did not so it did not form the circuit.

If you have similar problem, go to google and search for Toyota Corolla starter contact, you can repair the starter less than $15. Surely buy a used one is quick and easy.

Hope it help someone.

thanks.

kitch428

Good job!