Is this a battery or a starter issue?

Tiny
CARPUP
  • MEMBER
  • 2013 TOYOTA CAMRY
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 93,000 MILES
When my fob didn’t open doors, I knew it was off. After I used my keys to open the door, I realized dome light was left on “on” position for last 3 days maybe I hit it. There were no dash lights, etc. So, I thought I just needed to use my 12v jump box to recharge battery. After letting it sit connected for 15-20 minutes, I turned key one stop and got dashboard light, etc. When I turn the key to ignite, I get quick burring/clicking sounds and dash lights sputtering too. I tried it a couple more times and would also just get a loud, clear clicking sound when I turn the key to ignite. If I didn't know dome light was left on for 3 days. I would have thought this a clear starter problem (refurbed starter 1 year ago and new battery).
1. If I hook up my 12v jump box longer will that be enough? If so, how long should I l have it connected?
2. Do I need a car-to-car Jump? (For a bigger jolt?)
3. Do I need to hook it up to an actual battery charger? For how long?
4. Do I need a new starter?
Thursday, December 15th, 2022 AT 1:11 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
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The jump box is not strong enough to jump a completely drained battery. I would try a car-to-car jump. This video will show you how, once running allow the engine to run for a couple of hours, this should be enough to recharge the battery.

https://youtu.be/a9Ycibu9cwY

Please go over this guide and report back.
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Thursday, December 15th, 2022 AT 2:59 PM
Tiny
CARPUP
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Thanks for your response, Ken. What is my next step if car-to-car jump doesn't work? Battery charger, or instead, can I use one of the smaller, quicker lithium-ion packs to bring a discharged car battery back?
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Thursday, December 15th, 2022 AT 9:52 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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If a car-to-car jump doesn't work replace the battery with a new unit. Here are the instructions in the diagrams below with a generic guide to show you step by step what to do:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-car-battery

Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.
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Friday, December 16th, 2022 AT 12:29 PM

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