Cold Cranking Test

The battery must be fully-charged and load-tested before proceeding.



1. Connect a suitable volt-ampere tester (3) to the battery terminals (1,2). See the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the volt-ampere tester being used.
2. Fully engage the parking brake.
3. Place the automatic transmission gearshift selector lever in the Park position or place the manual transmission gearshift selector in the Neutral position.
4. Verify that all lamps and accessories are turned off. Prevent the engine from starting.
6. Rotate and hold the ignition switch in the Start position. Note the cranking voltage and current (amperage) draw readings shown on the volt-ampere tester.

a. If the voltage reads below 9.6 volts, refer to Starter Motor Diagnosis. If the starter motor is OK, refer to Engine Diagnosis for further testing of the engine. If the starter motor is not OK, replace the faulty starter motor.
b. If the voltage reads above 9.6 volts and the current (amperage) draw reads below specifications, refer to Feed Circuit Test.
c. If the voltage reads 12.5 volts or greater and the starter motor does not turn, refer to Control Circuit Testing.
d. If the voltage reads 12.5 volts or greater and the starter motor turns very slowly, refer to Feed Circuit Test.

NOTE: A cold engine will increase the starter current (amperage) draw reading, and reduce the battery voltage reading.