After returning from 3 week vacation my 4Runner will not start up immediately. Turn the key and the ignition “catches” sounding like the battery is dead, but it’s not. After turning and holding the key for several seconds the car starts. Next few times, there is a delay upon turning the key, then it turns over. Battery has been checked and ruled OK.
Needs new starter.
The copper contacts inside the solenoid may be worn. Common on Toyotas - it happened on my 1979 truck; also on my 1999 Plymouth Voyager, which uses the same brand of starter as Toyota.
You can remove the starter and replace the contacts, or have an auto electric shop do it, or install a rebuilt starter.