Starter Sometimes Just Spins

[prodell]

I just recently purchased a 2005 RX 330 and experienced an occasional problem with the starter not engaging (it just spins freely) it does'nt happen all the time. Battery checks out good. Any suggestions as to how to determine the possible cause, would be appreciated.

Thank you.

[code58]

I just recently purchased a 2005 RX 330 and experienced an occasional problem with the starter not engaging (it just spins freely) it does'nt happen all the time. Battery checks out good. Any suggestions as to how to determine the possible cause, would be appreciated.

Thank you.

I'm kind of surprised that you would have problems with an '05, but the most common problem is the starter solenoid. The contacts in the solenoid carry the load for the starter motor and therefore get "arced" (burned) pretty badly. They sell repair parts, both from Toyota and aftermarket for the solenoid and they're pretty cheap aftermarket (not quality, just price). The fact that the starter is running but the solenoid is not kicking it in may possibly mean the solenoid is failing. Doesn't happen often, but could. If you are mechanically inclined, you can take the starter off (it's right in plain view on top above the transmission) and very easy to take off. You can take it apart and more than likely tell from looking (certainly by testing) to see what the problem is. I am not a big believer in rebuilt of hardly anything at all, the rebuilt hardly ever last very long before they give problems again. Most people and even shops will just throw a rebuilt on, but I have learned in a lifetime in automotive work that I am better repairing what I have than trusting $8. an hour help with cheap parts to rebuilt something that will give me trouble free service for any length of time. Good luck and let us know if you need more help.

[prodell]

Thank you for your advice which I find very helpful. I'll get the problem looked at by a qualified mechanic, now I know what to pursue.