CAUTION: DO NOT engage starter solenoid for more than 5 seconds during testing, or damage to coil winding will result.

Pull-In Coil Test

Disconnect field coil lead from terminal "C". Connect jumper wires from negative battery terminal to terminal "C" and to starter housing. When wire is connected from positive battery terminal to terminal No. 50, clutch pinion gear should extend fully. See Fig 1 or Fig 4 . If clutch pinion gear does not move, replace solenoid. If clutch pinion gear does move, go to next test.

Hold-In Coil Test

With battery connected as in previous test and clutch pinion gear still extended, disconnect jumper wire from starter terminal "C". See Fig 2 or Fig 5 . Clutch pinion gear should remain extended. If clutch pinion gear does not remain extended, replace solenoid. If clutch pinion gear does remain extended, go to next test.

Drive Pinion Return Test

Disconnect jumper wire from negative battery terminal to starter housing. See Fig 3 or Fig 6 . Pinion gear should now retract. If it does not retract, replace solenoid.

Fig 1: Solenoid Pull-In Coil Test (Avalon, Camry & Sienna Shown; Corolla, Highlander, Sequoia, Tacoma V6, Tundra & 4Runner V6 Are Similar)

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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.

Safety Warning

Solenoid Tests