Testing For Short to Ground

Testing for Short to Ground

Notice: Refer to Test Probe Notice in Cautions and Notices.
Test Probe Notice

The following procedures test for a short to ground in a circuit.


With a DMM
1. Remove the power feed (i.e. fuse, control module) from the suspect circuit.
2. Disconnect the load.
3. Set the rotary dial of the DMM to the (ohm) position.
4. Connect 1 lead of the DMM to 1 end of the circuit to be tested.
5. Connect the other lead of the DMM to a good ground.
6. If the DMM does NOT display infinite resistance (Ohm), there is a short to ground in the circuit.


With a Test Lamp
1. Remove the power feed (i.e. fuse, control module) from the suspect circuit
2. Disconnect the load.
3. Connect 1 lead of the test lamp to battery positive voltage.
4. Connect the other lead of the test lamp to 1 end of the circuit to be tested.
5. If the test lamp illuminates, there is a short to ground in the circuit.