2014 Toyota RAV4 - Strange Noise When Starting

won’t start, makes noise like a power drill that’s reached its torque limit and is spinning without trying to tighten further. Similar to timer install, but more rapid and not as loud, like a hand held drill. Seems to me the sound is from or near the starter. I’m thinking it is the starter rather than the battery, but could a low battery make the starter do that? Does the starter require a minimum power level before it will engage the engine?

Sounds like the solonoid isn’t advancing the pinion gear into the ring gear. Have your starter checked.

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Check the battery, too.

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The battery has failed, the starter solenoid will cycle rapidly when there isn’t enough power to operate the starter motor.