What causes a 2000 Tacoma 4 x 4 manual to sometimes not turn over and just click multiple times before starting just fine?

Answer 1

== == This is a common problem with Toyota trucks and SUV's. The starter motor contacts are worn. Repair does not require an expensive starter replacement by your local overcharging mechanic, if you are handy with tools. Remove your starter and disassemble it to remove the contacts. You will need to get a starter rebuild kit, commonly available on eBay for about $25, or visit your Toyota dealer's parts department with starter contacts in hand to get the right parts. Shouldn't take more than a few hours to R&R the starter and replace the contacts.

Dear Tacoma owner, Your problem is related to starter motor antiquity; it's time for a new one! At certain times, and more and more frequently as your starter's ultimate demise looms large, the heavy duty switch at the solenoid fails to transmit adequate battery amperage to drive (or spin) the unit. This switch wears due to the difficult task it has to perform, every time you turn the ignition key to "crank" position; creating an electrical bridge between a high power cell and an appliance. This bridging is a little bit like welding, inside the starter, for a brief period of time. In your case, sometimes the power gets through to spin the motor; sometimes it doesn't. The condition will continue to get worse, and probably quickly too. If left unrepaired, you'll find yourself stranded, turning the key over and over, but to no avail. Replace the starter. Use a genuine Toyota remanufactured unit if you plan to maintain ownership of the truck yourself. They are more costly, but will last almost as long as the original one did. Aftermarket units generally present with premature wear symptoms after a couple of years. These are solid vehicles. Maintain it well! Over I would suspect corroded or loose wiring. Clean the battery post and clamps, and check all the wiring to the starter for tightness. Can also be the starter solenoid going bad.