Starting System: Description and Operation

The Battery, Starter Motor/Relay, and Ignition Switch make up the Starting System. In vehicles with automatic transaxles, the Backup Lamp/Neutral Safety Switch must be closed (PARK or NEUTRAL) in order to operate the Starter Motor. In vehicles with manual transaxle, the Clutch Switch must be closed (clutch fully depressed) for the Starter Motor to operate.

When the Ignition Switch is in the START position, current flows from the Battery through the 80A MAIN fuse, the Ignition Switch, and the Clutch or Neutral Safety Switch to energize the Starter Relay. Current Flows directly from the battery through the contacts of the Starter Relay to engage the Starter Motor and rotate the engine flywheel.