Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures

Starting System Diagnosis (Part 1 Of 2):

Starting System Diagnosis (Part 2 Of 2):

The battery, starting system and charging system in the vehicle operate with one another, and must be tested as a complete system. In order for the engine to start and the battery to charge properly, all of the components that are used in these systems must perform within specifications. The service information for these systems has been separated to make it easier to locate the specific 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 for the battery, starting system and charging system 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 a volt-ohmmeter, a battery charger, a carbon pile rheostat (load tester) and a 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 Charging System, On-Board Diagnostic Test for the location of the proper on-board diagnostic test procedures.