How to Troubleshoot a 2002 Avalon That Won't Jump Start
When your 2002 Toyota Avalon won't start, even when you try to jump start it at the battery with another vehicle, it is necessary to perform some basic diagnostic tests to pinpoint the cause. Testing the starting/charging system in the Avalon isn't difficult, but it does require the use of a few specialized tools. These tools are available at your local auto parts store, and with today's electrical systems they are good additions to your home auto repair tool set.
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Instructions
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Check battery voltage to check for a discharged battery. The battery on the Toyota Avalon is located in the right front area of the engine compartment, near the air filter housing. Set the controls on the meter to "Volts D/C". Turn the headlights on for 30 seconds to eliminate false readings caused by a residual surface charge. Touch the black meter lead probe to the negative battery terminal, and the red meter lead probe to the positive battery terminal. The reading on the meter indicates the battery voltage. A reading of 12.7 volts indicates a good battery. A reading of less than 12.5 volts indicates a discharged battery. A reading below 11 volts indicates a battery that has been discharged below safe levels and the battery is damaged. Charge or replace the battery as needed.
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Check for battery voltage at the main starter power wire terminal. The starter on the Avalon is located on the front right side of the engine compartment, bolted to the transmission just past the radiator. Removing the air filter housing and air duct will provide additional access if needed. Attach the battery leads on the circuit tester to the battery. Touch the probe end of the tester to the large battery cable bolted to the back of the starter. If the red light on the tester lights up, there is voltage at the starter. Touch the positive meter lead probe to the cable on the back of the starter and the negative lead to the negative battery terminal on the battery. The reading should be within .3 volts of battery voltage. If there is a significant difference between battery voltage and the voltage at the starter, clean and tighten the battery cables at the battery and starter and then retest. If there is still a drop in voltage, replace the battery cables.
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Touch the probe end of the automotive circuit tester to the start wire on the back of the starter. On the Avalon, this is the single wire brown connector plugged onto the solenoid on the starter. Have a helper turn the ignition key to the start position. The red light on the circuit tester should light up when the key is turned to the start position. If it doesn't, visually check the under-hood fuse block for blown fuses. The Toyota Avalon uses a set of high-current fuses to supply power to the ignition switch. If the fuses are good, replace the ignition switch.
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