Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2004 Scion xA AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Solenoid Test
CAUTION:
DO NOT engage starter solenoid for more than 5 seconds during testing, or damage to coil winding will result.
- Remove the terminal "C" nut and disconnect the field coil lead wire from terminal "C".
- Clip battery ground to terminal "C" and the main body of the starter, connect the battery positive to the magnetic switch (Terminal 50). Ensure that the clutch pinion gear moves outward. See Fig 1. If the clutch pinion gear does not move, replace the magnetic switch. If specifications are met, got to step 3.
- Disconnect the negative lead from terminal "C". See Fig 1. Verify that the pinion gear remains out. If the clutch pinion gear does not move, replace the magnetic switch. If specifications are met, go to step 4.
- Disconnect the negative lead from the switch body. See Fig 1. Verify that the clutch pinion gear returns inward. If the clutch pinion gear does not move, replace the magnetic switch. If specifications are met, go to step 5.
- Connect the lead wire to terminal "C" with the terminal "C" nut. Tighten the nut to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
Factory Service Tools
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.