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 .

• | 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 drive belt for correct installation. Refer to Drive Belt Replacement for gasoline engines or Drive Belt Replacement for the diesel engine.

### Intermittent

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

### Symptom List

• | 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