GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 1997 🢒 Corvette 🢒 Engine 🢒 Engine Electrical 🢒 Starter and Charging System Check

Starting and Charging Diagnostic System Check

Step

Action

Normal Result(s)

Abnormal Result(s)*

1
  1. Inspect the battery for proper installation.
  2. Inspect the battery for cracking or other damage.
  3. Inspect the battery terminals for proper connection.
  4. Inspect the battery terminals for excessive corrosion.
  5. Inspect the battery cables for proper installation.
  6. Check that all ground connections are clean and tight.
  7. Inspect the battery hydrometer (eye) for a green dot.
  8. Connect a DMM between the battery's positive and negative terminals.
  9. Ensure that any aftermarket accessory equipment is de-energized.
  10. Observe the battery voltage.
  1. The battery is properly installed.
  2. The battery is free from physical damage.
  3. The battery terminals are free from corrosion.
  4. The battery cables are properly connected.
  5. The battery cables are properly installed.
  6. The battery hydrometer displays a green dot.
  7. Battery voltage is approximately between 11.5 to 13.0 volts.
    • Battery Hydrometer Displays Dark or Yellow Dot.
    • Common Causes of Battery Failure.
    • Battery is undercharge (refer to Battery Charging).

2
  1. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
  2. Install the scan tool to the diagnostic link connector.
  3. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
  4. Select display DTC function with the scan tool.
  5. Checked for any stored PCM, BCM, or communication DTCs related to theft deterrent, starting or charging system operation.

No DTCs are stored in memory or current status.
    • DTC is stored in memory or current status (refer to appropriate DTC table).
    • Scan Tool Does Not Communicate w/Class 2 Data Line.

3
  1. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
  2. Remove the scan tool from the diagnostic link connector.
  3. Connect a DMM between the battery's positive and negative terminals.
  4. Ensure that all accessory equipment is de-energized.
  5. Start the engine and allow it to idle in PARK.
  6. Observe the battery voltage while starting the engine.
  1. The starter solenoid engages as the ignition key is placed in the start position.
  2. The starter motor operates without whine while cranking the engine.
  3. Battery voltage while cranking the engine does not drop below 9.5 volts.
  4. The engine starts and operates without driveability symptoms.
  5. The starter stops operating when the ignition key is released from the START position.
  6. The starter motor does not whine after the engine has started.
    • Starter Solenoid Does Not Click.
    • Engine Cranks/Cranks Slowly, but Does Not Start.
    • Starter No Load Test.

4
  1. Press the HVAC MODE control button until the LOWER floor position is displayed.
  2. Depress the fan control button until the fan reaches high speed.
  3. Turn the headlamp switch to the ON position (headlights ON).
  4. Move the wiper switch to the HI position (maintain some moisture on the windshield while the wipers are in operation).
  5. Maintain engine speed between 800 and 1000 RPMs.
  6. Observe the voltage reading at the DMM.
  1. The generator operates without unusual noises.
  2. The battery indicator light on the instrument cluster extinguishes after the engine is started.
  3. The voltmeter on the instrument cluster reads approximately between 12.0 and 16.0 volts while the engine is idling.
  4. The SERVICE ENGINE SOON malfunction indicator lamp extinguishes when the engine starts.

Battery is Undercharged or Overcharged.

* Refer to the appropriate symptom diagnostic table for the applicable abnormal result.