Intermittent starter problems

I have a 2000 5spd limited 4runner

Yesturday my 4runner started to do a funny think where the first time i try to start it, nothing will happen no clicks nothing. Then the second time it starts up perfectly fine.
Tonight it got much worse to the point that it will start 4 times fine not start for 5 times and then start again. It seems that if the key was in accessory for a moment before turning over it more often wont start but its never a perfect correlation. Ive turned the key multiple times and i.cant find a pattern.

 

So it could be a few things.

My 4Runner did a similar thing. The negative cable was corroded from INSIDE OUT. I had to cut 12" of negative cable to get to good cable and solder/splice in good clean cable. No more issues.

BAd connections make for very random issues.

I would jumper the negative side of the battery directly to ground and see if that helps. If so...you know where it is.

If not, I would disconnect the positive cable and inspect it bend it and listen for crackling.

It could also be the ignition cylinder in the column and you need a new one and new keys. This is also a known issue.

-Mike

 

Thank you mike! Also all the lights work perfectly fine even when it doesnt want to start. Would bad battery conection still work the light but not the ignition?

 

Yes. The starter requires a TON of power compared to everything else.

 

It could be the plunger solenoid in the starter. I should have said to not rule that out either. You can get a cheap kit that replaces that too. Don't buy a McParts starter...they aren't as good as what you have and more expensive.

 

Thanks for your guys help, I put a new starter in it today and It runs like a champ!