Crank won't start - Immobilizer Antenna Coil was the problem

Hoping this helps someone in the future, especially before they start chasing expensive "crank won't start" issues. For the past few years, I was chasing an odd problem where the 2011 TRD V6 would crank but not start. It seemed to happen more in the summer (90+ degree days). A lot of it is detailed in this thread: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/wont-start-when-hot-outside-solved.557169/

Well, last night it happened again and letting the immobilizer antenna 'cool off' did not resolve the issue. I opened up the steering column, removed, and disassembled the immobilizer key coil antenna/amplifier (89783-04010). The antenna coil wire, shown below with cover removed, had completely separated and was no longer making contact. I'm guessing in the past, the high temps caused the wire to separate but when it cooled, it retracted enough to make contact and work. If you've been chasing odd "crank won't start issues" its worth a check. If the immobilizer light doesn't go out when you insert the key, this could be the problem.

I soldered the wire to the terminal and am back in business. (Please excuse the poor soldering skills). I still ordered the replacement since $140 is cheaper than a tow to the dealer if the solder joint fails. The design of how the antenna wire/coil is attached to those terminals is pretty poor.

I will attest to the effectiveness of the "immobilizer." When it fails, you have no chance of starting the truck.

Hope this helps someone in the future!

 

Tacomaworld and I apparently have a different understanding of what "attach as thumbnails" means... Sorry for the large pictures. doh!

 

It's not you: I'm having the same problem today. The site won't do Thumbnails tonight.

 

Thank you! I know what to check next time this happens, which, knock on wood, hasn't happened in 4 years. Mine only seemed to happen when I left my key in the ignition and it was hot out.