Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview

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: When working on the starter system, make sure the anti-theft system is operational.

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

2. Inspect to determine if any of the following mechanical or electrical concerns apply.

Visual Inspection Chart





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


NOTE: Make sure to use the latest scan tool software release.

4. If the cause is not visually evident, connect the scan tool to the data link connector (DLC).

5. If the scan tool does not communicate with the VCM:

- check the VCM connection to the vehicle.
- check the scan tool connection to the VCM.
- See - Communications Network - Troubleshooting, No Power To The Scan Tool, to diagnose no communication with the scan tool.


NOTE: The vehicle communication module (VCM) LED prove out confirms power and ground from the DLC are provided to the VCM.

6. 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
- See - Communications Network - Troubleshooting, to diagnose no response from the PCM.

7. Carry out the network test.
If the scan tool responds with no communication for one or more modules, see - Communications Network - Troubleshooting.
If the network test passes, retrieve and record continuous memory DTCs.

8. Clear the continuous DTCs and carry out the self-test diagnostics for the PCM.

9. If the DTCs retrieved are related to the concern, GO to Starter and Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) DTC Chart. Starting System - DTC Chart For all other DTCs, see- Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Chart - B, C, P And U Codes.