This procedure covers the replacement of the starter solenoid on a 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla with a 1.8L I4 engine by removing and replacing the starter assembly.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Starter assembly with solenoid × 1 — Use OEM specification (Toyota 28100-37020 or equivalent)

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
3. Raise and secure the front of the vehicle on jack stands for better access from below
4. Gather all tools and the replacement starter assembly before beginning
5. Ensure the replacement starter has the correct solenoid configuration for your model year

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Using a 10mm wrench, loosen and remove the negative battery terminal cable. Move the cable away from the battery post and secure it so it cannot make contact. Wait 90 seconds for airbag system capacitors to discharge.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove engine under cover
   From underneath the vehicle, remove the plastic engine under cover using a 10mm socket. There are approximately 8-10 clips and bolts securing the cover. Set aside the cover and fasteners.
3. 3

   Locate the starter assembly
   The starter is located on the passenger side of the engine block, below the intake manifold and near the transmission bell housing. Access is best achieved from below the vehicle. Use a flashlight to identify the starter motor, solenoid, and electrical connections.
   ℹ️On some model years, you may need to remove the air intake duct for improved access from above.
4. 4

   Disconnect starter electrical connections
   Identify the two electrical connections on the starter solenoid. First, remove the small wire connector (signal wire) by pressing the locking tab and pulling straight off. Then, using a 12mm socket, remove the nut securing the main battery cable to the solenoid terminal. Move both wires away from the starter.
   ⚠The main battery cable remains energized even with the negative terminal disconnected. Avoid shorting this cable to ground.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove upper starter mounting bolt
   Using a 14mm socket with a 6-inch extension, locate and remove the upper starter mounting bolt. This bolt threads into the transmission bell housing. It may require significant force to break loose. Apply penetrating oil if the bolt is corroded.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts32 Nm (24 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove lower starter mounting bolt
   Locate the lower starter mounting bolt, also accessible from underneath. Using a 14mm socket with extension, remove this bolt completely. It also threads into the bell housing and secures the starter bracket.
   ⚠Support the starter motor with one hand while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts32 Nm (24 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove starter assembly
   With both mounting bolts removed, carefully pull the starter straight out from the bell housing. The starter nose has a pilot that fits into the transmission, so wiggle it gently if it does not release easily. Lower the starter down and out from underneath the vehicle.
8. 8

   Inspect and clean mounting surfaces
   Inspect the starter mounting area on the bell housing for debris, corrosion, or damage. Use a wire brush to clean the mounting surface and bolt threads. Check that the ring gear teeth visible through the starter opening are not damaged. Verify the new starter matches the old unit exactly.
   ℹ️If ring gear teeth are damaged, transmission removal may be necessary for flywheel replacement.
9. 9

   Install new starter assembly
   Position the new starter assembly and align it with the mounting holes in the bell housing. Ensure the starter nose pilot enters the transmission opening correctly. Push the starter into position until it seats flush against the bell housing.
10. 10

    Install starter mounting bolts
    Thread in both the upper and lower starter mounting bolts by hand to ensure proper alignment. Using a 14mm socket and torque wrench, tighten both bolts to specification in a cross pattern (tighten upper partially, then lower partially, then both to final torque).
    Torque spec

    Mounting Bolts32 Nm (24 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect starter electrical connections
    Reconnect the main battery cable to the solenoid terminal stud and secure with the nut. Tighten to specification using a 12mm socket and torque wrench. Then, reconnect the small signal wire connector by pushing it onto the solenoid terminal until it clicks into place.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall engine under cover
    Reposition the plastic engine under cover and secure with all original clips and bolts. Ensure the cover is properly seated and does not contact any moving components.
13. 13

    Reconnect battery negative terminal
    Clean the battery terminal and cable end if necessary. Reconnect the negative battery cable to the negative battery post and tighten the terminal bolt to specification using a 10mm wrench and torque wrench.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all electrical connections are secure and properly routed away from moving parts
2. Ensure no tools or parts were left in the engine compartment or underneath the vehicle
3. Double-check that both starter mounting bolts are tightened to the correct torque specification

Verification

• Turn the ignition key to the START position and verify the engine cranks normally without unusual noises
• Listen for a single click from the solenoid when the key is turned to START, followed by normal cranking
• Start the engine and verify it runs normally with no warning lights on the dashboard
• Turn off the engine and attempt to restart it several times to ensure consistent operation
• Inspect underneath the vehicle for any fluid leaks or loose components
• If the vehicle fails to crank or makes clicking sounds, recheck all electrical connections and mounting bolt torque

More procedures for this vehicle