I have a 2000 Toyota 4-Runner...In the past few days, pretty consistently, I get nothing but a click on turning key in ignition 1st time...2nd time engine starts normally...battery is new...any ideas? Thanks

 

Check that the terminal connections are tight.

 

You don't say how many miles are on it, but if all connections are good as Bill suggests you may simply have worn parts in the solenoid - 2 contacts and and the plunger. Repair is fairly easy, but requires removal of the starter in order to access the solenoid. Parts are a fraction the cost of a replacement starter and the rest of the starter on Toyotas is pretty much bulletproof.

 

4-runner has 53,000 on it

 

Pretty low mileage for solenoid contacts/plunger to be worn, but not out of the realm of possibilities. Think I had to do my wife's previous Camry at about 125k.

 

Thanks for qwik responses guys....connections are tight...problem has "gone away"....know things don't usually fix themselves...so will play by ear for now

 

problem is back....someone told me 4-runners are notorious for this ...anyone have any insight? would rather not bring car to dealer...and get banged with a huge analysis bill

 

Is there a real loud click sound when you try to start it? Such a click would indicate it at least is sending full current to at least the solenoid, to try to start it. (Sorry but while posting this I never thought to reread your OP, and am going more on your last post than anything)

If no loud click sound, this would indicate some kind of 'break' in the current flow whether it be weak voltage or bad connection. You may also want to try to see if you have headlights when you try to turn ignition key to "start" and observe what happens to the light's brightness when you turn key to start. Then report back as this will help further your diagnosis, perhaps.

To add now that even though you got a click, was it a real strong one? Plus check the lights, as stated.