Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview

The 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.

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 (OBD) built into the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Use of an induction-type 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 On-Board Diagnostic Test For Charging System in the Diagnosis and Testing of Charging System for more information.

Inspection
Before removing any unit from the starting system for repair or diagnosis, perform the following inspections:

WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-BAGS, PASSIVE RESTRAINT SYSTEMS BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.

- Battery - Visually inspect the battery for indications of physical damage and loose or corroded cable connections. Determine the state-of-charge and cranking capacity of the battery Charge or replace the battery, if required. Refer to Battery for complete service information for the battery
- Ignition Switch - Visually inspect the ignition switch for indications of physical damage and loose or corroded wire harness connections. Refer to Ignition Switch and Key Lock Cylinder of Starting System for complete service information for the ignition switch.
- Clutch pedal Position Switch - If the vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission, visually inspect the clutch pedal position switch for indications of physical damage and loose or corroded wire harness connections.
- Park/Neutral Position Switch - Visually inspect the park/neutral position switch for indications of physical damage and loose or corroded wire harness connections.
- Starter Relay - Visually inspect the starter relay for indications of physical damage and loose or corroded wire harness connections.
- Starter Motor - Visually inspect the starter motor for indications of physical damage and loose or corroded wire harness connections.
- Starter Solenoid - Visually inspect the starter solenoid for indications of physical damage and loose or corroded wire harness connections.
- Wiring - Visually inspect the wire harnesses for damage. Repair or replace any faulty wiring, as required.