Avensis Starting Problems

[Lavros]

Hi, I hopoe someone can help with this one. I have a 2001 Avensis GS VVTI 1.8 which has done 50000 miles. The engine management light came on recently and upon having this checked I was told it was a fault on one of the lambda sensors. I used my car yesterday with no problems. When I tried to get it started today, the engine would not start and it sounded like it was nowhere near starting, just a rapid clicking noise from the engine compartment when the ignition key was turned. I don't know if the engine management light and the start failure are connected. Does anyone have any ideas please.

[Thermal]

... a rapid clicking noise from the engine compartment when the ignition key was turned.

... is a symptom of a flat Battery.

Not connected in anyway to a Lambda sensor problem.

It just needs a new/recharged Battery.

Btw, the life expectancy of a Battery these days is between 3 - 6 years, slightly more depending on circumstances and a little luck.

[Lavros]

Thanks for that, I'll give it a try, I didn't even consider the Battery. If that is all it is I'll feel a right idiot. Thanks very much for the quick response.

[Lavros]

Thanks for that, I'll give it a try, I didn't even consider the battery. If that is all it is I'll feel a right idiot. Thanks very much for the quick response.

I swapped the Battery over but no change. I did notice that when the ignition key was turned right around s if to start the car, the clicking/ticking noise started and all the eletrics flickered. could this be a starter motor/solenoid problem? any advice wqould be appreciated.

[Thermal]

OK, if it's not the Battery, it may be a known problem with the ignition switch.

There was even a workshop posted here somewhere, on how to replace it.

You may want to read up (search) on the subjects of "ignition key barrel" "Avensis not starting", or the like.

The workshop, including the symptoms, is here:

http://www.toyotaownersclub.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=44971

Good luck.

[Lavros]

Hi Thermal,

thanks for your help. I'm off on holiday tomorrow but I will try the ignition switch replacement as soon as I get back. Thanks for all your help.

[badboys44]

Hi Thermal,

thanks for your help. I'm off on holiday tomorrow but I will try the ignition switch replacement as soon as I get back. Thanks for all your help.

hi im sure its the starter, try knocking the starter with a hammer. do not knock it to break just a bit. try that first.

hope it help

[Thermal]

... will try the ignition switch replacement ...

Hi,

Make sure to do some reading and check if your symptoms are the same as in the above mentioned article first.

It is a possible cause, and so is badboys44's suggestion.

By all means, use a plastic hammer and tap the solenoid on the starter while a helper turns the key.

[peterc.lewis@blueyonder.co.uk]

Try wiggling the key a bit as you turn it. Idf this makes a difference it COULD be the ignition key. Check thoroughly as no options are ever cheap on an avensis ;(

[Avensis 1999]

If it is the switch and don't wish to give Mr t £50 of your hard earned cash, simply go to Maplins and buy a £2 push switch, and wire it into the existing ignition loom. This is exactly what I did, then you have £48 left to buy some beers !

It's quite an easy job, I'm sure there is a thread on here Ho to do it, or I can look at my wiring and let you know which wires to splice onto.

HTH

Alan