GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Engine cranks/cranks slowly, but does not start

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

DEFINITION: The starter solenoid clicks, but the engine cranks slowly or not at all

1

  1. Check that the battery is fully charged.
  2. Turn the ignition switch to START.
  3. Us a DMM to measure the voltage at the battery while cranking the engine.
  4. Crank the engine and read the voltage after 15 seconds, then remove the load.

Is the voltage greater than 9.5 volts?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Step 5

2

Use a DMM to measure the voltage between the negative battery terminal and ground while cranking the engine.

Is the voltage less than 0.5 volts?

--

Go to Step 3

Go to Step 8

3

Use a DMM to measure the voltage between the positive battery terminal and the starter solenoid at terminal B while cranking the engine.

Is the voltage less than 0.5 volts?

--

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 9

4

Repair the starter motor assembly.

Is the repair complete?

--

Recheck System Operation

--

5

Load test battery.

Is the battery OK?

--

Go to Step 6

Go to Step 7

6

Repair the starter assembly. Refer to Starter Assembly repair.

Is the repair complete?

--

Recheck System Operation

--

7

Replace the battery.

Is the repair complete?

--

Recheck System Operation

--

8

Replace the negative battery cable.

Is the repair complete?

--

Recheck System Operation

--

9

Replace the positive battery cable.

Is the repair complete?

--

Recheck System Operation

--