Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview

WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS, REFER TO AIR BAGS AND SEAT BELTS/AIR BAGS BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.

Inspection
Before removing any unit from the starting system for repair or diagnosis, perform the following inspections:
- 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 more information.
- Ignition Switch - Visually inspect the ignition 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 - Visually inspect the starter 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 harness for damage. Repair or replace any faulty wiring, as required.