Principles Of Operation

Starting System

Principles of Operation

Starting System

The starting system is electronically controlled by the PCM. The PCM receives the following inputs:

- Transmission in PARK or NEUTRAL, from the Transmission Range (TR) sensor

- Correctly coded Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) ignition key

- Ignition switch input, when ignition switch is in the START position

When the ignition switch is turned to the START position, the PCM receives battery voltage on the starter switch input circuit. If the PCM receives other input signals indicating that it is OK to start the engine (TR (Transmission Range) sensor input, PATS (Passive Anti-Theft System) key input), it provides the starter relay coil with both voltage and a ground. The starter relay contacts close, supplying voltage to the starter solenoid, which activates the starter motor. Once the starter motor begins to crank, the ignition switch may be released to the RUN position. The starter motor will continue to crank until either the engine starts, a PCM-controlled crank time has been exceeded or the ignition switch is turned to the OFF position.