I didn't drive my 2002 RX300 (200k miles) for ~2 weeks and the battery is several years old, so it wouldn't start up. I tried using my (cheap/low amperage) portable jump starter pack, and got the starter to turn a few times (3 or 4 bouts of 3-4 seconds), but it didn't have enough juice to start up. I ended up buying a new battery (with 750 CCA) and put it in.

Now, when I try to start it, the lights all come on on the dash, but when I crank the key, I hear a single click. Then all the lights shut off, and all electronics become unresponsive (turning the key does nothing). The only way to reset it is to disconnect the battery for a few seconds, reconnect, and try again. But the same thing happens — single click when turning the key, then lights out.

Do you think my starter motor might be burned out? Could it be a bad connection to the battery? How do I fix this situation? Thanks!

 

With a new battery the symptoms sound like bad cable(s). Easy to replace or fix, the acid really does
a number on the clamps.

 

I agree with mcomer.
Classic symptom of poor connections.

Please let us know how it goes.

 

Yeah, there is a lot of corrosion after all these years. I'll replace the clamps and let you know how it goes. Thanks for the suggestion!

 

I had the same thing happen to me and it was the starter.