Description

DESCRIPTION

The starting system consists of:

- Starter relay
- Starter motor (including an integral starter solenoid)

Other components to be considered as part of starting system are:

- Battery
- Battery cables
- Electronic Ignition Switch (EIS)
- Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or for diesel vehicles, the Engine Control Module (ECM)
- Park/neutral position switch (automatic transmission)
- Wire harnesses and connections.

The Battery, Starting, and Charging systems operate in conjunction with one another, and must be tested as a complete system. For correct operation of starting/charging systems, all components used in these systems must perform within specifications. When attempting to diagnose problems with the Starting System, it is important to verify that the Battery and Charging System are operating correctly.

Most problems with the Starting System can be identified with basic conventional diagnostic methods. However, electrical faults related to the EIS, PCM or ECM will require a scan tool to access the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) functions of the PCM (or ECM, if equipped with a diesel engine). Use of a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM) or induction-type milliampere ammeter, volt/ohmmeter, battery charger, carbon pile rheostat (load tester) or digital battery tester, and 12-volt test lamp will be required to test the starter, battery and their related circuits.

The EIS is monitored by the PCM or ECM (or ECM, if equipped with a diesel engine) via the CAN-C bus, and may produce a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) depending on the type of fault present.