Troubleshooting the starter system on your Toyota Camry may seem difficult at times. However, there are some simple tests you can follow to trace the cause of the problem. The tests are simple and require the use of a test light and, if necessary, a multimeter. Keep in mind problems in the starter system can often be blamed on a loose/bad connection or a worn out component that has stopped working.
When your starter does not operate at all, a simple test can tell which path to follow. Turn on the headlights and ask a helper to turn the ignition key to "Start." If the lights remain bright, start looking for an open or bad component in the starting circuit.
Use a test light to follow the current path along the starter circuit, beginning at the battery. Make sure each connection is tight and free of corrosion, dirt or grease. Ask your helper to turn the ignition to key to "Start" as you test each connection at the solenoid, neutral start switch (if equipped) and ignition switch. Your test light will tell you where the voltage stops when the bulb does not come on. That will be your trouble spot.
If the headlights dim during the first test, check the battery for voltage. Make sure all the connections in the starter circuit are clean and tight and take the starter to the auto shop or your local auto parts store for a test if necessary.
First, make sure the battery has the correct voltage and all the connections are tight and clean. If necessary, raise the front of your Camry, support it on jack stands and use a wrench or ratchet and socket to make sure the starter mounting bolts are tight.
If you just replaced the starter, make sure you installed the correct one. Otherwise, the pinion gear on the starter and the flywheel ring gear will not mesh properly.
Perform a voltage drop test at the connections at each component in the starter circuit using your multimeter. You should get no more than 0.5 volts when you probe the terminal and the fitting at each component connection.
With an old motor starter, worn or defective internal components may not operate the pinion gear as they should. If necessary, remove the starter and take it to an auto shop or auto parts store for testing.
As with the previous tests, you can check for proper voltage at the battery and make sure all the connections at the starter circuit are tight and clean. To verify, perform a voltage drop test at each connection as described in the previous section.
Raise the front of the vehicle and verify that the starter is mounted tight and the connections are secured. If necessary, remove the starter and take it to an auto shop or auto parts store for testing.
