2006 Avalon sometimes cranks but won't start

[rbarbot2]

I'm ripping my hair out over an ongoing problem with my 2006 Avalon XLS. Anywhere from 1-10 times per week when you turn the ky to start the engine, it will crank continuously and not start the engine. If you turn the key back to OFF, then try again, it starts right up. When it does this, you can crank the engine seemingly forever, and there is NO sputtering or effort to actually start the engine, just cranking only. The dealership and Toyota "experts" are stumped; however, they did at least verify the problem on one visit. The funny thing is, most of the times it does this when the key is left in the ignition after shutting down, like when the car is parked in the garage. It seems silly, but shouldn't I be able to leave the key in while pumping gas and then expect the car to start again on the first attempt? I've come across 2 other owners on forums who have the same problem, but no solution. I'm interested in any suggestions,please.

[jim256]

Any chance the security system is disabling the key because it is still in the ignition, timing out, and needs another start cycle to recognize the key electronics for the electric steering wheel lock and starting system? Since you're not removing the key, does the steering wheel ever make the locking sound and start the red light on the dash flashing? Just a guess.....

[rbarbot2]

The security light is not flashing when the engine fails to start. The possibility of it being a security system issue has crossed my mind; however, 99.99% of Avalons don't perform this way. Most people could leave their key in the ignition for a month and the car will still start on that first turn of the key.

[jim256]

I've seen this in the manual, can't say I believe it, but I guess there are circumstances:
"NOTICE
When using a key containing a transponder
chip, observe the following
precautions:

When starting the engine, do not
use the key with a key ring resting
on the key grip and do not press
the key ring against the key grip.
Otherwise the engine may not start,
or may stop soon after it starts."

This is in the manual for the SmartKey, but I wonder if it's possible there is some comparable logic in the standard system? (I don't know of any folks leaving the key in the ignition, but it likely does occur. If you know it does not disable other Avalons then I'm probably off base. I do have a friend, however, that keeps an LS430 key inside his car all the time. )
SmartKey:"Both the vehicle and key transmitters are
always sending signals to each other. To
prevent the batteries from being discharged,
the smart key system is automatically
deactivated in the following conditions:

If the electronic key is left outside of
the vehicle and within the effective
range of the entry function actuation
area for more than 10 minutes.

If the door lock or unlock operation is
not performed more than 2 weeks.
The key and the vehicle are communicating
even while the vehicle is not being
driven. Do not leave the key near the
vehicle (within 2 m [7 ft.])."

To reactivate the SmartKey you have to use a remote function or insert and turn the metal key in a door.

[JohnintheCdnRockies]

I have the same experience (needing to restart the car) when leaving the key fob in the lock overnight. This happens all the time in our garage. This does not happen if you remove the key (even for a instant), reinsert it and then start up.

I suspect that the system is somehow sending electronic alerts while inserted - somehow precluding a clean start. Not a problem from my perspective and not something to be unhappy with.

It is a lot better than our Mercedes where leaving the key fob in the start drains the battery in short order! ;-)