GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Step

Action

Normal Result(s)

Abnormal Result(s)*

1

Visually inspect the battery hydrometer.

Battery hydrometer displays a green eye.

Refer to Battery Hydrometer Displays Dark or Yellow Dot .

2

Visually inspect the battery cables.

Battery cables are clean and tightly connected.

Battery cables are frayed or not tightly connected. Refer to Battery Cable Replacement .

3

Inspect STRTR fuse and IGN fuse.

STRTR fuse and IGN fuse are not open.

Repair source of overload and replace STRTR fuse or IGN fuse.

4

Inspect all grounds.

All grounds are clean and tightly connected.

Clean and tighten grounds.

5

Inspect starter motor and starter solenoid.

Both starter motor and starter solenoid are properly mounted and starter solenoid terminals S and B are clean and tight.

Ensure proper mounting and clean and tighten terminals.

6

Inspect the generator.

Generator drive belt is tight. The generator connector and terminal are clean and tight.

Adjust generator drive belt .

Clean and tighten connectors and terminals.

7

Move the ignition switch from the OFF position to the RUN position.

Check gages indicator lamp turns on, engine does not run.

Refer to Instrument Cluster.

8

Move the ignition switch to the start position and then slowly release.

Starter motor runs, the engine starts, and the check gages indicator lamp turns off.

Refer to Starter Solenoid Does Not Click , Engine Cranks/Cranks Slowly, but Does Not Start , or Instrument Cluster.

9

Allow Engine to run for approximately 5-7 minutes.

Measure voltage at the Battery terminals.

Voltage reading of 13-16 volts.

Refer to Generator Not Operating Properly .

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