1998 Avensis Starting Problem

[Glasswarrior]

I have a 1998 1.8 GS Auto Avensis. It has developed an issue with starting. Often when trying to start in either Park or Neutral it's like the safety cutoff is in operation and it won't even crank over but if I twist the key 2 or maybe 3 times it sparks into life just fine. It doesn't always happen though and it has never failed to start. The symptoms are the same as if I was trying to start her with the selector in Drive - which it won't because of the safety cutoff on the gearbox. All electrics come on ok but it takes a couple or three turns of the key to get her to start. Anyone any ideas they could share?

Cheers

[timson]

I have a 1998 1.8 GS Auto Avensis. It has developed an issue with starting. Often when trying to start in either Park or Neutral it's like the safety cutoff is in operation and it won't even crank over but if I twist the key 2 or maybe 3 times it sparks into life just fine. It doesn't always happen though and it has never failed to start. The symptoms are the same as if I was trying to start her with the selector in Drive - which it won't because of the safety cutoff on the gearbox. All electrics come on ok but it takes a couple or three turns of the key to get her to start. Anyone any ideas they could share?

Cheers

It could be the ignition switch worn. Common problem on the Avensis. Around £55 from the dealer and about half an hour to fit. There is a how to on here somewhere.

[cmia]

check Battery terminal connectors

[Mr Neil]

I have a 1998 1.8 GS Auto Avensis. It has developed an issue with starting. Often when trying to start in either Park or Neutral it's like the safety cutoff is in operation and it won't even crank over but if I twist the key 2 or maybe 3 times it sparks into life just fine. It doesn't always happen though and it has never failed to start. The symptoms are the same as if I was trying to start her with the selector in Drive - which it won't because of the safety cutoff on the gearbox. All electrics come on ok but it takes a couple or three turns of the key to get her to start. Anyone any ideas they could share?

Cheers

It could be the ignition switch worn. Common problem on the Avensis. Around £55 from the dealer and about half an hour to fit. There is a how to on here somewhere.

I put a hidden push 'start' switch in my car :-)

[Glasswarrior]

Thanks guys. I've sold her now but have passed on this info to new owner.

cheers

[Mr Neil]

I too put a hidden start switch :-)