Starter Motor Lifespan

Will the starter motor just stop one day or will there be early warning signs?

I have a 2015 and It gets started about 15x per day every day. Is there any way to anticipate when the starter motor will need attention

 

Typically they will give a bit of warning where they will just click and if you try it a couple times they will start but I have seen them die without warning too.

What do you do that you start the truck 15 times a day?

 

Usually the only issues you will have is that the starter solenoid will need the contacts replaced. The starter motor will usually have a Very Long Life. The bearings are usually the first thing to go after the solenoid. It will usually drag and cause a slow turning starter.

 

i thought mine was going out but ended up being the battery. i agree they have a very long life.

 

I wouldn't bother thinking about doing it preemptively unless you're going to throw down on a real new starter from the dealer. Aftermarket new or reman (even Denso reman TBH, although that would be my dtrong preference if going reman) are so hit-or-miss, you're more likely to accomplish the dead opposite of what you're trying to.

I can't remember the last time I even quoted someone one, let alone sold one... and I sell a good many parts. And that's not even touching on how many of the few that do get replaced are misdiagnosed batteries, or cables, or...

 

Is it worth replacing starter solenoid contacts as preemptive?

Truck gets used in remote locations in winter snd I want reduce my risks.

 

I'd just wait until it starts to go out. Usually you can tap on the solenoid to get it going the first couple of times it goes out, that will be your notice to rebuild or buy a new one. Do you have a standard transmission? You could always use the pop start as a backup method.

 

You can buy the contacts and plunger new from Nations Starter and Alternator for about 30 - 35 bucks. Much cheaper than hundreds for a rebuilt POS from Autozone or big bucks from the dealer.

https://www.nationsstarteralternator.com/Starter-Rebuild-Kits-s/37.htm


Check this video for rebuilding the solenoid on the starter. The biggest issue with the V6 Engine and 4X4 is you have to take the starter out through the drivers wheel well area.

This video shows them sanding the plunger contact ring. Not needed with Nations as they send you a new plunger assembly.

https://youtu.be/qwokxzjlYcQ

 

490k on mine and not once since 2007 have I ever had to tap on it

 

He starts his 15x a day. That’s gonna tax the everything from the ignition switch down to the starter. I can feel his concern if his livelihood depends on a roadworthy vehicle. Toyota starters generally last a long time.

 

Holy Shite 490k - what have you had to do ?? Any reply appreciated.