Sc300 Starter Problem

[dannycwu]

Hey all, thanks for reading this. I have a 95 Lexus SC300 that's been running fine as of late. However sometimes when I don't drive it for two days or so and then try and start the car, I either get a "click" and then nothing or a "click" and then a second later it starts and turns over. So far it's started up everytime but I'm wondering if any of you know what the problem might be. I've heard checking the battery terminals but they're brand new and maybe the starter is going bad? Please help me at your earliest convenience and thanks again for reading this post!

[JDOwen2]

Is the battery new? If so, the problem could be the starter solenoid. Have the battery tested under load to eliminate the battery. If the battery is indeed good then it could be the ignition switch or the starter solenoid. Also check the connections on the starter.

[AWJ]

It is probably your starter solenoid. I had to do mine once. Got it rebuilt real cheap. Car never missed a lick after that.

[dannycwu]

Thanks for the quick replies! Now, how does one rebuild the starter solenoid? Is it something that I should ask my mechanic to do (how much do you think it should cost?). Or do I have to buy a new one? Or is it something I can do myself?

Thanks again!

:D

[JDOwen2]

Never heard of rebuilding a starter solenoid. I took one apart on a 240Z years ago, cleaned it and put it back together and it worked. Probably need a new one.

[AWJ]

After you get the starter out, the lid on the solenoid comes right out. Remove the plunger. The brass contacts coming off the two poles are directly below. Kind of half moon shaped little L brackets. These are worn too low from use. Put new ones in and you're golden. This is a fairly common occurance. Starts with a click every once in a while, then harder starts and soon - no start. I don't know the part # - when I ordered them, they were the wrong ones, I took it to a starter repair shop and they knew exactly what I needed and gave me a warranty. 15$ starter fix. I still can't believe it.