The 1998 Toyota 4Runner’s starting motor may go down suddenly or gradually. It’s time to remove your starter, have it bench-tested, and replace it if necessary if it starts making odd noises like grinding or clicking. Starter motor replacements can be purchased brand-new from the Toyota dealership, brand-new and rebuilt from the majority of auto parts retailers, or even used from a salvage yard. While used starters typically do not, new ones typically do.
In This Article...
Step 1
Utilizing a tool to remove the retaining bolt, lift the hood of your 4Runner and detach the negative battery line from the battery terminal. The battery wire should be removed from the battery and put away.
Step 2
Place a jack under the 4Runner’s front end. Place a set of jack stands beneath the frame after raising the truck until you can work underneath it comfortably. The 4Runner can then rest on the jack stands after the jack is lowered.
Step 3
Locate the starter motor on the passenger side of the engine from underneath the truck. The starter’s electrical contacts should be removed. Push the tab on the push-in connector to release it from the starter’s socket. With a wrench, unfasten the retaining bolt on the second connector and take out the wire from the stud.
Step 4
Find the two starter mounting bolts where the starter meets the bell housing at the front of the starter. These bolts are installed from the bell housing’s back, or transmission, side. Using a socket and ratchet while holding the starter motor, remove them. From below the truck, lower the starter and remove it.
Step 5
From below, place the replacement starter in the engine compartment. Insert the starter’s nose into the bell housing’s hole. Thread the mounting bolts into the starter from the bell housing’s transmission side.
Step 6
Using a torque wrench, tighten the two mounting nuts to 29 ft-lbs. Connect the starter’s wire harness connectors. When the two have locked together, begin with the push-in connector and insert the wiring connector into the starter connector.
Step 8
Your 4Runner’s front end should be raised with a jack until it is off the jack stands. Set the truck on the ground by removing the jack supports from underneath it and lowering the jack.
The negative battery cable should be attached to the negative battery terminal, and the cable end’s retaining bolt should be tightened with a tool.
- tool set
- Jack
- Jack postures
- Adapter set
- Ratchet
- ratchet wrench
For a 1998 Toyota 4Runner, how much does a starter cost?
For your 1998 Toyota 4Runner, we now offer 22 Starter items to select from, with prices ranging from $99.99 to $234.99.
How is a starter relay tested?
Thanks to their advantageous location in the engine bay, starter relays may fortunately be serviced without having to raise the vehicle. For your assessment, you will require the following equipment:
- an electronic multimeter
- Wire
Having a helper available to turn the ignition while you conduct your testing is also beneficial.
Step 1: Test for Electrical Resistance
Put probes on the ground lead and the ignition circuit terminal using your multimeter. You need to replace your starting relay if the reading is greater than 5 Ohms. A wire jumper can also be used to test for resistance. To check for a forceful click, connect a wire between the battery lead and the ignition circuit lead. Weak clicks suggest a problem with the starter relay.
Step 2: Test for Voltage
Set your multimeter to 20V DC and attach the red probe to the battery’s red wire terminal while positioning the other probe on the black and white ignition switch circuit. The voltage drop shouldn’t be more than 0.2 volts when your assistant flicks the ignition. In that case, you have a problem with electrical conductivity and require a new starter relay.
On a Toyota Tundra, how long does it take to replace the starter?
This approach is probably considerably more annoying and may not even be faster than removing the exhaust manifold.
The excursions to the computer to review the how-to instructions only to confirm that the heat shields and starter will in fact emerge from behind the manifold must be considered. Removing them is therefore like solving a difficult problem. To remove it and one of the bolts keeping the steel shield in place, I had to cut one of the aluminum shields.
merely to remove the starter took almost three hours. On the list of the worst jobs ever, this one is up there. Currently awaiting the arrival of the new one.
I don’t want to remove my starter, but how can I test it?
Q My 1999 Toyota Tacoma’s rebuilt starter has just been installed; the previous one had shorted out and refused to disengage. The new one, though, won’t interact. When the key is turned, all that can be heard is a quiet click. Any thoughts?
A Did you test the old starter to be sure it was defective? The starter may continue to engage if a relay or solenoid is shorted. Check all electrical connections between the battery, relay, solenoid, and starter, assuming the replacement starter motor is in working order. Take a close look at the starting relay’s socket. And ensure that the engine/drivetrain and the chassis have a strong ground connection.
Using jumper cables to disengage the car’s electrical system is the simplest approach to examine the starter. With the engine off and the transmission in “park,” carefully attach one end of the red/positive jumper cable to the battery’s positive terminal. Connect the red cable’s opposite end to the starting motor’s positive connector. The engine must be spun or cranked by the starter. If it does, the wires, connectors, or relay are the cause of the issue. If not, start the engine and use the black/negative jumper cable to establish a connection between the drivetrain and the battery’s negative terminal as a ground. Connect the red cable to the positive terminal of the starter. If the starter turns the engine over, a poor chassis ground is the issue.
Once more, use extreme caution when performing these tests to keep yourself safe. Remove the new starter, or even better, test it on your workbench.
Q I am rebuilding a 1988 Nissan Pathfinder V6 with 149,000 miles. One issue that I’d really like to fix is the fact that the engine always behaves as though the temperature is 30 below zero! The engine may be running at 2,000 to 2,400 rpm while the outside temperature is 90 degrees. Only the first start of the day results in this.
A A “fast idle control device” (FICD) and an idle-up solenoid are used by this early fuel injection system to regulate fast idle during startup. The crank angle sensor, coolant temperature sensor, ignition, and battery provide data to the FICD. Although the first idle speed of 2,000 to 2,400 rpm is correct, normal idle should arrive sooner. The two gadgets mounted on the throttle body would be checked.
Q My 1999 Chrysler Sebring has about 112,000 miles on it. My car won’t run correctly when the temperature is below zero. When I let up on the throttle or go into gear, it will start rough and die. Once fully warmed up, it functions normally. The gasoline pump may be the issue, but the dealer wasn’t sure, and fixing it would cost $900. What shall I do?
A Although low fuel pressure may be a contributing factor, the symptoms don’t really match a fuel-pump issue. Check the fuel pressure with a shop, then connect a scan tool to check for trouble codes. Have the shop verify the accuracy of the coolant temperature sensor signal with the engine completely cold. The idle air control actuator can be tested or reset using the scan tool.
Are basic maintenance items like air and fuel filters, spark plugs, and the like current on the vehicle as well? The car is approaching its operational limits when the temperature falls below zero, therefore regular maintenance can make the difference between the vehicle starting and not starting.
What symptoms do a failed starting motor show?
5 Symptoms Of A Failing Starter Motor: A Sluggish Start
- Engine Refuses to Start. The engine refuses to start.
- Although the starter turns, the engine is not powered. The starter turns the engine, but nothing happens.
- Sounds of grinding. Within the cabin, there was grinding.
- Smoke or odor while starting.
- Lights start to fade as you begin.
Does the starter have a fuse?
Your automobile may act as though it has a defective starter solenoid due to a variety of issues, such as:
Blown fuseOccasionally the most straightforward explanation is the best one. A no-start issue could be caused by a blown fuse in the starter circuit.
corroded or damaged wiring
A starter may not receive enough power if the battery or starter solenoid are connected via damaged, filthy, or loose cables.
All of your car’s electrical systems will be powered by the alternator when it is in motion. The battery is also recharged by it. The battery might not be able to start the engine if the alternator is malfunctioning.
StarterStartenoids vary in location; some are mounted on the starter, while others are housed inside the starter housing. When the solenoid malfunctions in this situation, it could be essential to replace the starting entirely. Sometimes the issue is with the starter itself.
Electrical problems can be inconvenient and irksome. They may also pose a risk and result in harm. Make sure to have a dependable specialist diagnose the precise issue if your car, truck, or SUV displays signs of a faulty starter relay or solenoid.
How can I tell if the fuse for my starter relay is blown?
Your car won’t start correctly if a starter relay is destroyed, which is a significant problem. This is a result of lower electrical conductivity between engine parts in your car. You might observe some of the following problems when this occurs:
Unresponsive Ignition
One of the most important signs that your starter relay is faulty is an unresponsive ignition. As was already established, to start the engine, the relay transfers energy from the battery to the starter solenoid. When you turn the key to start the car, if the ignition clicks, your relay is probably broken but not fully destroyed.
When trying to start your car, if the ignition doesn’t click at all, your starting relay is likely blown and needs to be replaced.
Engine Stalls
Engine stalls can be frightening, especially if they happen when you’re in the middle of traffic or moving freely. If your engine does go out in the middle of a drive, a faulty relay is probably to blame.
If the starting relay fuse isn’t supplying enough power to the engine parts, such the fuel pump, your engine won’t be able to continue running and will shut off even as you’re driving.
Dead Battery
The starter relay’s job includes coordinating with other car parts to know when to and when not to supply power. If your relay is malfunctioning, it might not inform the car’s battery that it is no longer required now that the engine has been turned off.
If this occurs, your battery will keep supplying the power it believes the engine needs to keep operating. Your car’s battery will overwork itself and release energy without the assistance of the alternator if it is left running overnight with the mistaken belief that it needs to supply electricity. The batter frequently dies over night as a result of this.
Bad Electronic Smell
Overheating is one of the factors listed as a well-known sign of a bad starter relay. If a relay fuse is constantly exposed to high voltage, the fuse may get too hot to manage. Relay fuse melts itself and the plastic components around it when it overheats.
The plastic melts and emits a distinct burning odor that is unpleasant to the smell. It is crucial to make sure the starter relay is not the problem if you notice a burnt smell. If the starter relay fuse is the problem, it must be changed right away.
Can blown fuses prevent a car from starting?
Have a mechanic examine your vehicle because you may need to replace the alternator if it is damaged. It’s best to get it checked out as soon as possible because sometimes it might even harm your car’s battery.
What can you do about it?
Check to see if your automobile will start after shifting into neutral. Attempt depressing the brake pedal as well.
Clutch your vehicle’s manual transmission by depressing the clutch pedal.
A malfunctioning neutral safety switch, which can be quite dangerous, may be the cause of your automobile starting even if it is in drive, starting just in park instead of neutral, or starting in park but not neutral.
Faulty Fuse
Car fuses are essential safety equipment for any vehicle’s electrical system. Your automobile won’t start if something is broken or the fusible linkages are damaged.
The starting relay, which is required to supply the spark, the ignition, and the power to drive your car, might be cut off by a faulty or blown fuse.
To find the fuse box in your car, start by consulting the owner’s manual. Next, look for a blown fuse or any obvious wire damage.
If you see it, tow your vehicle to a shop to get the fuse changed. As an alternative, you can request a mechanic to visit your driveway and fix it!
Issues With The Ignition Switch
Your automobile won’t start if the switch is broken since there is no electricity to the starter motor or ignition system.
The ignition switch can malfunction even if it isn’t the most frequent reason for your car to stall.
Your car will indicate this by displaying signals like these:
- The car won’t turn on
- The car key is stuck.
- The starter motor won’t produce any noise.
- The dashboard of the car could flash.
- The instrument panel might not be illuminated.
Another indication of a broken ignition switch is if your ignition switch is constantly in the on position, continuously operating the fuel pump.
Carrying a keychain with fewer keys is the easiest method to handle a faulty ignition switch.
Given that the ignition switch is located directly behind the ignition lock cylinder, a bulky keychain could strain the switch when you enter the key (the place where you insert your car key).
Get in touch with a mobile car repair service to have it addressed right away if you’re certain that the issue is with the ignition switch rather than the battery or alternator.
Dead Key Fob Battery
If your push-start system car’s engine won’t crank when you click the Start button, your key fob might be malfunctioning or dead.
Your car won’t start if the key fob battery is dead since the button won’t get any signals from it.
Simply replace the battery in the dead automobile key fob. To open the battery cover, use a coin or a tiny screwdriver. A silver coin or button will resemble the battery.
Find the battery’s serial number and purchase a replacement battery that matches it. Request assistance from a mechanic if it doesn’t operate after that.
Bad Starter Motor
An internal combustion engine’s starter motor turns the engine to enable it to start working on its own.
It is connected to a starter solenoid, a tiny cylinder-like part that carries electrical current from the battery to the starter motor in order to start the car’s engine.
When you turn the ignition key on, your car won’t start if the starter motor or starter solenoid are damaged.
So how can you know if your starter solenoid or motor is damaged? These indications:
- The engine of your car won’t start.
- It’s possible that your engine cranks very slowly.
- You can hear a grinding or whirling noise when starting the automobile.
You may need to get your starting or starter solenoid replaced by a mechanic if you observed any of these symptoms.
Bad Spark Plug Or Broken Distributor Cap/Rotor
To start the combustion system, your car needs the proper air-fuel ratio (fuel pressure) and spark.
If your car won’t start despite having a healthy battery and enough gas in the tank, you probably have a bad spark plug.
Here’s how to recognize a faulty spark plug:
- Significant drop in fuel efficiency
- accelerating problems
- engine stalls
- erratic idling
Describe them. A distributor controls the flow of power to the spark plugs that ignite the fuel. It sends spark plugs a high voltage current coming from the ignition coil.
It contains a revolving arm or rotor inside a distributor cap, which serves as a cover to safeguard the distributor’s internal components. The contacts between the internal rotor and the spark plug wires are likewise kept in place by the cap.
Now, the spark won’t travel if the distributor cap isn’t on firmly or the rotor isn’t operating correctly.
Bad spark plug symptoms are difficult to identify and frequently coexist with problems with other car parts. It’s better to have a qualified mechanic check your car to see whether the ignition coil, distributor cap, or spark plugs are damaged.
Timing Belt Needs Replacing
An internal engine part is the timing belt. Your engine’s crankshaft and cam are rotated at the appropriate times by a rubber strip.
Your car’s engine won’t run if it malfunctions. The starter motor may turn on but not turn over, or you may even hear a ticking noise coming from underneath the hood.
A timing belt can rupture while the car’s engine is operating, which is a less common problem but can harm the engine.
The only way to remedy a broken timing belt is to have a mechanic replace it.
A timing chain may be installed in some vehicles in place of a timing belt. Typically, it outlasts the rubber belt. However, you will still need to call a mechanic to fix a broken timing chain.
Not Enough Gas In The Fuel Tank
It might seem simple, but if your battery, spark plug, and alternator are in good shape, you should check to see if your automobile has adequate fuel.
Before you start driving, check that your gas tank has enough fuel, and make an effort to keep it filled up.
During the winter, a fuel line in your car could even freeze. Keep in mind that the more space there is for water vapor to condense and freeze inside your car’s gasoline line, the more empty a gas tank or fuel tank there is.
Finally, have your gasoline reading gauge checked if it frequently runs out to the point that your car won’t start. The gauge can be defective and unable to provide you with the appropriate reading at the appropriate moment. Any other underlying problems with the fuel system will also be found by a mechanic.
Clogged Fuel Filter
A fuel filter will eventually become clogged since its duty is to prevent pollutants and other filth from entering the engine.
Now, even if the fuel filter partially clogs, your car will still run. However, you won’t be able to start your car if the gasoline filter is entirely blocked. Due to low fuel pressure, the engine won’t receive any fuel from the fuel tank.
Consult the owner’s manual. The frequency of gasoline filter replacement will have been specified by the manufacturer. Make it a practice to have it replaced by a professional when necessary so that you don’t end up with a seriously clogged fuel filter.