03 Toyota 4 runner limited ( I’ve learned limited has different locations for parts etc) (mechanic is at a loss)
vehicle has been sitting for six months original problem battery drain. started vehicle one day by surprise. Rolled down all the windows to air out. Car was running. Let it run for an hr. No road testing. Shut off and in 1-2x. 3x nothing and windows now stuck open. That was two months ago have not been able to get the car to turn over since then.
Found out blower motor resistor caused parasitic drain. So no problem there, but still keep battery disconnected since car won’t start.
Tried a different day to start car and nothing no power no lights no auxiliary. (Windows all still down) Replaced ignition switch relay dash that’s working again, locks, interior lights. Still no start no windows, AC etc. replaced the alternator but no change. Car won’t turn over. starter will try and work and makes a constant sound and won’t stop till I turn the key off. I’ve tried different key as well. There was a leak in the passenger side didn’t seem to affect direct wiring but maybe there’s a ground that’s corroded? Battery grounds are good, cleaned other grounds I could see. Checked fuses, seem to be good. Seems like I fix one problem then other comes up. It’s been a year since car was on the road and it’s a tank. Is this 1 problems or 2? Won’t turn over and windows won’t roll up and AC, radio area not working. Worked that 1 time 2 months ago when I started it after it was sitting since November. It’s close to $400 for an electrical diagnostic trying to avoid that and a tow fee.
I can change starter, it’s a headache of a job, but can be done it’s under the intake manifold. But would that fix the other issue? Why did it work 2 months ago and then nada? What else could I check? Could this be from leak ? Not leaking anymore. My gut says it’s all one thing electrical since they all worked that one time and stopped after that. Sorry so much but I thought the whole story would help better.
I love working on cars it’s fun and I love the satisfaction of making it work. I’m a 50 plus wife/ mom this is my hobby and money saver.
Well electrical problems going to be a real pain to find out. Now. Starters are those things only last so long and if it's been on there for years and years I'd probably start by putting a starter on it cuz that's such an easy job. And if that didn't work then you're going to have to trace the whole wiring system through from the ignition switch all the way through all the various power things. Look at the fuse boxes. See if any of them have water intrusion or corrosion it can get really complex
