LexusLX_20

i own a 1998 lexus lx470,for the past year it has been having trouble starting. sometimes it starts with just one turn, and other times i have to turn the ignition 20 times. it also makes a 'click' sound when it dosent start. i wanted to know if something was loose or if i have to change the whole starter. also if their is a way i can fix it myself. the dealership cost way too much. please tell me what is wrong and how i can fix it. thank you.

2003lx470

mostly likely the starter. you can fix it if you have the tools. before you do anything, please remove the "black/earth/negative" battery terminal.

jwarnermd

If your battery is old it may be your problem. I had a similar problem recently. The
battery tested good, but within a few weeks it died. I have a '99 and the starter still works great. Check your dash voltmeter before you crank it. If it's a little low like 10 volts it is probably the battery. I have one of those portable jump start battery and
it started right up with it, so I knew it wasn't the starter.

Rollin'ES3

Have your charging system tested first.

If your battery is weak, it will show false readings for the starter and alternator. Most likely best to replaced the battery and test the other stuff.

masagsxr

Starter for sure.... I had just replaced one for my mom's van. Exact same symptom. You have to turn it on/off/on/off like a number of times for the selenoid to engage so that it can turn over the engine to start. Replace that and you'll be good to go..... Good luck.

2003lx470

here is the check list:

1st---- check the battery to see if it has the "juice" ie. hold charge by checking the "voltmeter" when you turn on the ignition. if you have a battery charger, charge it overnight. if the engine crank, then you know it might be the battery.

2nd---- test the alternator and alternator belt (loose belt don't charge batteries)

3rd----check the stater

take it to the nearest garage to check these systems.