GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

DEFINITION: Noise occurs while cranking the engine.

1

Does the engine emit a high pitched whine during cranking but the engine cranks and fires OK?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Step 3

2

Decrease the distance between the starter drive pinion and the flywheel.

Has the noise disappeared?

--

System OK

Go to Step 9

3

Does the engine emit a high pitched whine as the ignition key is being released, but the engine cranks and fires OK?

--

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 5

4

Increase the distance between the starter drive pinion and the flywheel.

Has the noise disappeared?

--

System OK

Go to Step 9

5

Does the engine make a loud whoop after the engine fires as the starter drive pinion is still engaged?

--

Go to Step 6

Go to Step 7

6

Repair or replace the starter drive.

Has the noise disappeared?

--

System OK

Go to Step 9

7

Does the engine rumble, growl or knock as the starter motor is coasting down to a stop after the engine is started?

--

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 9

8

Repair or replace the starter armature.

Has the noise disappeared?

--

System OK

Go to Step 9

9

Refer to Section 8A for a complete Engine Electrical diagnosis.

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