GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Instructions

    • Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
    • Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Starting and Charging Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Starting System Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information

Circuit/System Verification

  1. Verify that battery is sufficiently charged and that the battery cables are clean and tight.
  2. If battery not sufficiently charged, refer to Battery Charging.
    If battery cables are not within specified range, refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications.
  3. Turn the ignition switch to the start position. The starter solenoid should click.
  4. If starter solenoid does not click, refer to Starter Solenoid Does Not Click.
  5. Remove the drive belt, refer to Water Pump and Generator Belt Replacement for the 3.6L engine. Generator Drive Belt Replacement for the 4.4L engine. or Generator Drive Belt Replacement for the 4.6L engine.
  6. Turn the ignition switch to the START position.
  7. If the engine cranks, inspect the engine and belt drive system for mechanical binding, seized engine, or seized generator, etc.
    If the engine does not crank, refer to Engine Will Not Crank - Crankshaft Will Not Rotate for 3.6L engine. Engine Will Not Crank - Crankshaft Will Not Rotate for the 4.4L engine or Engine Will Not Crank - Crankshaft Will Not Rotate for the 4.6L engine.
  8. Test for less than 0.5  volts between the positive battery cable and terminal  X2 at the solenoid as the ignition mode switch is placed to the START position.
  9. If greater than the specified value, replace the positive battery cable.
  10. Test for less than 0.5  volts between the negative battery cable and the starter motor case as the ignition mode switch is placed to the START position.
  11. If greater than the specified value, replace the negative battery cable.
  12. If all circuits test normal, replace the starter motor.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Battery Positive Cable Replacement
    •  Battery Negative Cable Replacement
    •  Starter Motor Replacement