Intermittent Starting Issues . . .

Yes This I was told by dealership. The faulty ECU would lock out starts.

 

I'm leaning towards solenoid contacts. They're carrying a decent current and the arc created when the contacts open will pit the contacts over time.
Sanding the pits down will fix the problem for a while. They'll be back though. Quicker this time because the harder contact surface has already been compromised.

 

I’m betting on faulty ECU. I had exact same symptoms. Took 3 visits to dealership determine ECU was problem.

 

Thanks for your reply!
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This is what I am doing. At first I panicked since I have replaced very recently a few things (URD gas pump, and OCVs). It makes sense it's the starter. Really appreciate the help guys.​

Could you elaborate? On the startup diagrams there are solenoids, but the ones that could lock the system might be the VVT. Maybe if it truly gets locked it would be to prevent the camshaft to do damage? I have not read yet anything related to the ECU and the starter, but I could be wrong. Maybe you could give us some details. Thanks!​

 

The ecu had to be replaced. It was faulty. end of story.

If your vehicle fails to start for no apparent reason, this is also a good indicator that there may be a problem with the ECU. If you check the car battery, starter and other common electrical components, and the vehicle still does not start, a faulty engine control unit should be the next logical thing to consider.

 

year of taco ???

mileage on taco

could be a worn ignition switch on the column

 

Keep us updated to let us know how it goes!

 

Easy to check. When you turn the key to the start position and there is one small click and nothing else happens the ECU is not the issue as the small click is the Starter relay picking up.

The ECU is only involved with the Starting circuit in a manual transmission and using the Clutch Override Switch. Any other time the starter will turn the engine without any ECU being involved.

That being said the ECU can prevent the engine from running, but the starter will still turn it over.

In other words your dealer is full of crap. The end of story.

Here are the circuits to back me up.

 

Fair enough. It was your experience. Thanks for sharing!​

Not sure about OP. I can share my details for others.
2009 4x4 v6 with 280k miles.
I think I have been lucky the starter has lasted this long.​

Definitely. I will sure take some pictures on the rebuild. I just got my tracking number from the guys at http://www.nationsstarteralternator.com/​

Thank you! Very informative feedback​