GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Test Description

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

  1. When testing the circuit for a high resistance ensure to use the voltage drop test in the Circuit Testing procedure. If the circuit has more than more than a 0.5-volt drop when the starter is engaged then there is a high resistance.

  2. When testing the circuit for a high resistance ensure to use the voltage drop test in the Circuit Testing procedure. If the circuit has more than more than a 0.5-volt drop when the starter is engaged then there is a high resistance. Ensure when testing the engine ground to battery to connect the engine ground lead to the base of the starter.

Step

Action

Yes

No

Schematic Reference: Starting and Charging Schematics

Connector End View Reference: Power and Grounding Connector End Views

1

Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle?

Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle

2

Turn the ignition to the START position.

Did the starter solenoid click?

Go to Step 3

Go to Starter Solenoid Does Not Click

3

Inspect the engine and belt drive system for mechanical binding, e.g. seized engine, seized generator.

Does the engine move freely?

Go to Step 4

    • Go to Engine Will Not Crank - Crankshaft Will Not Rotate for the 2.2L (L61) engine
    •  Engine Will Not Crank - Crankshaft Will Not Rotate for the 3.5L engine
    •  Engine Will Not Crank - Crankshaft Will Not Rotate for the 3.9L engine

4

Test the battery positive cable between the battery and the starter solenoid for high resistance. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs .

Did you find and correct the condition?

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 5

5

Test the ground circuit between the battery and the engine for a high resistance. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs .

Did you find and correct the condition?

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 6

6

Inspect for poor connections at the starter. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs .

Did you find and correct the condition?

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 7

7

Replace the starter. Refer to Starter Motor Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

Go to Step 8

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8

Operate the system for which the symptom occurred.

Did you correct the condition?

System OK

Go to Step 2