Leaderboard

Do you have your window down or door open when you try to start? If not, you probably won't hear the "click" the starter makes. I have the same issue with my '99 LS400. For me, it is probably the starter solenoid. But, as long as it starts I plan to just keep on going.

The ignition switch has 2 separate contacts. One for gauges, lights, radios and the other for the starter relay and the ECU via the neutral safety switch located at side of the AT unit. Your problem may be caused by one of these below. The second contact of the ignition switch, The neutral safety switch The starter relay The starter itself including the solenoid One of fuses between these including cables. Since you need to attempt at least two times, I think it may be caused by the ignition switch or the neutral safety switch. In case of the neutral safety switch, shifting AT lever several times pushing the release button before the try (engine start) would be a way to find the cause.

When you say 'attempts', do you mean that after the first try, you turn the key completely back to the 'Off' position and then rotate it clockwise to 'Start'? Or just go back to the 'Run' position and then to 'Start' and it works? Be very specific in your analysis and testing as it may provide valuable clues. How about if you turn the key to the 'Run' position and wait for 10 seconds before "Start' on the first attempt?