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The following general information has been assembled as a guide for starter circuit diagnosis. Refer to the appropriate Original Equipment Manufacturer’s service manual for specific information pertaining to starting system diagnostic procedures and safety precautions for your vehicle.
If a starter test bench is available, follow the procedures found in the bench tester’s instruction manual to conduct a starter performance test. This test will determine if the starter’s operation is within its performance specification, preventing unnecessary starter replacement.
If the starter’s performance is within specification during bench testing, resolve problems in the remainder of the vehicle’s starting system and other electrical circuits that may affect starting circuit performance. Refer to the appropriate vehicle manufacturer’s service manual for the procedures and circuit schematics necessary to identify and correct additional starting circuit problems.
If the test bench results show the starter’s performance to be out of specification, replace the starter. Continue to inspect the remainder of the starting system. Refer to the appropriate vehicle manufacturer’s service manual for the procedures and circuit schematics necessary to identify and correct additional starting circuit problems.
NOTE: If the starter solenoid is part of the starter motor being tested, and the bench test identifies the solenoid as defective, it may be possible to replace the solenoid only and return the starter assembly to service. If the solenoid is replaced and the starter assembly is returned to service, refer to the appropriate vehicle manufacturer’s service manual for the procedures and circuit schematics necessary to identify and correct additional starting circuit problems and other electrical circuits that may affect starting circuit performance.
Does the starter turn the engine too slowly?
Does the starter fail to crank the engine?
Does the starter turn without turning the engine?
Does the starting system click when activated?
Is there a clattering noise when trying to start the engine?
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