tim156

I have a 2006 Scion xB. It recently has become hard to start. While trying the start the dash lights turn off and the fuel gauge drops to empty.
When it finally starts the lights come back on and the fuel gauge rises.

Any suggestions?

ajcadoo

Battery? Might be time to replace it. How long have you had that battery?

criminaltc

Does it only click when you try to turn it over? Like it makes a "click click click" sound? Or does the starter actually kick in to try and turn the engine over? If it does the first suggestion, then it's your battery. Check the terminals first and make sure you have good connection. Other than that, replace the thing. If it is actually trying to turn over, that could be a laundry list of things, including your fuel pump, altenator, or even battery.

dgenem

I second that, sounds like a battery problem. Could also be a wiring problem. Check the ground connection to the frame up front. That bolt on my old XB (RIP) had the ground connector from the battery come loose and do the EXACT same thing. Simple 10mm wrench fixed that. You can also have your battery and alternator tested at most auto parts stores for free.