Topic: Starter staying on while engine runs?

[Volcom]

Wierd problem just started with the 4Runner.  While cranking the motor over, the starter sticks on while the engine is running.  I can turn the key to the off position and it stays on.  The only way I can get it to turn off is to crank the engine over again and hope it turns off (so far, it has).  It doesn't do it when the engine is warmed up, just the first crank after sitting for hours and cold.

[emsvitil]

The solenoid is sticking.

When this happened to me, I just took it apart and relubed.   

(and switched the contacts side to side)  For some reason one contact wears more than the other.   This uneven wear will cause the solenoid to get cocked when in use and it sticks when cold.

The better solution is to just replace the contacts and relube the solenoid.

[Volcom [OP]]

Good to know!  Glad I asked.  Starter is fairly new, 3 years old and maybe 3000 miles on it. 

[axled89]

great call.