Starting and Charging: Testing and Inspection
OVERVIEWThe battery, starting, and charging systems operate with one another, and must be tested as a complete system. In order for the vehicle to start and charge properly, all of the components involved in these systems must perform within specifications.
Refer to Wiring Diagrams for complete circuit descriptions and diagrams. We have separated these systems to make it easier to locate the information you are seeking. However, when attempting to diagnose any of these systems, it is important that you keep their interdependency in mind.
The diagnostic procedures used include the most basic conventional diagnostic methods to the more sophisticated On-Board Diagnostics (OBDII built into the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Use of a induction milliampere ammeter, volt-ohmmeter, battery charger, carbon pile rheostat (load tester, and 12-volt test lamp may be required.
All OBD-sensed systems are monitored by the PCM. Each monitored circuit is assigned a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). The PCM will store a DTC in electronic memory for any failure it detects. Refer to Powertrain Management/Computers and Control Systems/Testing and Inspection/Procedures/Trouble Code Descriptions. Diagnostic Trouble Code Descriptions