Can anyone tell me what I can do with my Townie I got in this morning turned key and click nothing. On my previous car a Mondeo if this happened it was a case of putting it in gear and then rocking it to free the starter motor. Does the Townie have a solenoid which may be on the way out or possibly a loose connection somewhere. Did start after a few turns of the key and has started since. Anybody help please.
Thanks

- (#10520) Joyce Mason, 29 Apr 04 12:35

Hello Joice,
have you noticed a squeeling noise when you start off?
If you have, it's probably just a loose fan belt. If not then it could be a faulty battery, or the well known solenoid contacts. This is well documented on the archives, just click on the Ace Answers link above.

- (#10520) dave Bright (Bournemouth), 29 Apr 04 13:12

If its auto it could be the inhibitor switch (wear in linkage or needing re-adustment)
If it happens again, give the gear lever a slight push/pull before starting

- (#10520) chris turner, 29 Apr 04 17:09

I also had this problem. First time hubby was handy and tapped starter moter to get it going, second time on my one own. Didn't fancy having to get down on the floor every time so priced up starter moter from local Toyota parts "big mistake" import part over £500 with VAT. Friend recomended having the starter "rewound" as celonoid is usually the problem. Found local firm in Mansfield (Rotec, unit 2, station road, sutton in Ashfield) Job took 20 mins and only cost £35. For people who don't have a friendly machanic they also provied a fitting service. Don't know if there's an extra charge for this

- (#10520) janet mellors, 8 May 04 05:01

I had the same problem. Had starter motor reconditioned - twice! as it made little difference thje first time. However, this did not solve the problem completely although there was a vast improvement. How I overcome the "getting underneath and tapping the starter" was by having a separate switch connected directly to the starter. This is hidden in the "armrest" between the front seats. Should I have any further problems all I have to do is turn on the ignition and flicking the switch - after making sure that the gear lever is in park/neutral - and off we go. Hope this helps.

Derrick

- (#10520) Derrick, 8 May 04 10:33