For 1990-2009 cars

Important: Review the system operation in order to familiarize yourself with the system functions. Refer to the following:

• | Battery Description and Operation

• | Starting System Description and Operation

• | Charging System Description and Operation

### Visual/Physical Inspection

• | Inspect for aftermarket devices which could affect the operation of the starting, charging or ignition systems. Refer to Checking Aftermarket Accessories in Wiring Systems.

• | Inspect the easily accessible or visible system components for obvious damage or conditions which could cause the symptom.

• | Inspect the battery for correct installation and physical damage.

• | Test the condition of the battery. Terminal voltage should be 11.5-13.5 volts.

• | Inspect the wiring for damage. Inspect the connections to the starter motor, the starter solenoid, the ignition switch, the battery and all related ground points.

• | If the battery, wiring and switches are in satisfactory condition and the engine is known to be functioning properly, remove and test the starter motor.

• | When the charging system is operating normally, the charge indicator lamp will come on when the ignition switch is turned on and will go out when the engine starts.

• | Inspect the generator for loose or improper mounting and the generator drive belt for correct installation.

• | Inspect the generator drive belt for correct installation. Refer to Generator and Air Conditioning Compressor and Power Steering Pump Belt Replacement in Engine Mechanical 2.0L and Fan and Generator Belt Replacement in Engine Mechanical - 2.5L.

### Intermittent

Faulty electrical connections or wiring may be the cause of intermittent conditions. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections in Wiring Systems.

### Symptom List

Refer to a symptom diagnostic procedure from the following list in order to diagnose the symptom:

• | Starter Solenoid Does Not Click

• | Starter Solenoid Clicks, Engine Does Not Crank

• | Engine Cranks Slowly

• | Charge Indicator Always On

• | Charge Indicator Inoperative

• | Battery Inspection/Test

• | Battery Charging

• | Battery Electrical Drain/Parasitic Load Test

• | Battery Common Causes of Malfunction

• | Jump Starting in Case of Emergency

• | Starter Motor Noise Diagnosis

• | Charging System Test

• | Generator Noise Diagnosis