Troubleshooting Guide

The battery, starting, and charging systems operate with one another, and must be tested as a complete system. In order for the vehicle to start and charge properly, all of the components involved in these systems must perform within specifications.

However, when attempting to diagnose any of these systems, it is important that you keep their interdependency in mind.

The diagnostic procedures used 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, volt/ohmmeter, battery charger, carbon pile rheostat (load tester), and 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 On-Board Diagnostic Test for more information.

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

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 corrode cable connections. Determine the state-of-charge and cranking capacity of the battery. Charge or replace the battery, if required.
- Ignition switch - Visually inspect the ignition switch for indications of physical damage and loose or corroded wire harness connections.
- Clutch Pedal Position switch - Visually inspect the clutch pedal position 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.