Inspection and Verification

Starting System

Inspection and Verification

WARNING: Always disconnect the battery ground cable at the battery before disconnecting the starter motor battery terminal lead. If a tool is shorted at the starter motor battery terminal, the tool can quickly heat enough to cause a skin burn. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious personal injury.

NOTE: The Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) must be functioning correctly before a logical starting system diagnosis can be carried out. Address anti-theft system concerns before continuing.

1. Verify the customer concern by operating the starting system to duplicate the condition.

2. Remove the accessory drive belt. Verify the crankshaft and each of the components driven by the accessory drive belt rotate and are not seized or damaged.

3. Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical or electrical damage.

Visual Inspection Chart






4. If an obvious cause for an observed or reported concern is found, correct the cause (if possible) before proceeding to the next step.

5. NOTE: Make sure to use the latest scan tool software release.
If the cause is not visually evident, connect the scan tool to the Data Link Connector (DLC).

6. NOTE: The Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) LED prove out confirms power and ground from the DLC (Data Link Connector) are provided to the VCM (Vehicle Communication Module).
If the scan tool does not communicate with the VCM (Vehicle Communication Module) :

- Check the VCM (Vehicle Communication Module) connection to the vehicle.

- Check the scan tool connection to the VCM (Vehicle Communication Module).

- Refer to - No Power To The Scan Tool, to diagnose no power to the scan tool.

7. If the scan tool does not communicate with the vehicle:
- Verify the ignition key is in the ON position.

- Verify the scan tool operation with a known good vehicle.

- Refer Information Bus, to diagnose no response from the PCM.

8. Carry out the network test.
- If the scan tool responds with no communication for one or more modules, refer to Information Bus.

- If the network test passes, retrieve and record continuous memory DTCs.

9. Clear the Continuous Memory Diagnostic Trouble Codes (CMDTCs) and carry out the self-test diagnostics for the PCM, Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) module and BCM (Body Control Module).

10. If the DTCs retrieved are related to the concern, go to the DTC Charts. For all other DTCs, refer to Body Control Systems. Starting System

11. If no DTCs related to the concern are retrieved, GO to Symptom Chart. Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures