- Symptoms - Starting and Charging

IMPORTANT: Review the system operation in order to familiarize yourself with the system functions. Refer to the following:
Battery Description and Operation
Starting System Description and Operation
Charging System Description and Operation

Visual/Physical Inspection
Inspect for aftermarket devices which could affect the operation of the starting, charging or ignition systems. Refer to Checking Aftermarket Accessories in Diagnostic Aids.

Inspect the easily accessible or visible system components for obvious damage or conditions which could cause the symptom.

Inspect the battery for correct installation and physical damage.
Test the condition of the battery. Terminal voltage should be 11.5-13.5 volts.

Inspect the wiring for damage. Inspect the connections to the starter motor, the starter solenoid, the ignition switch, the battery and all related ground points.

If the battery, wiring and switches are in satisfactory condition and the engine is known to be functioning properly, remove and test the starter motor.

When the charging system is operating normally, the charge indicator lamp will come on when the ignition switch is turned on and will go out when the engine starts.

Inspect the generator for loose or improper mounting and the generator drive belt for correct installation.

Inspect the generator drive belt for correct installation. Refer to Drive Belt replacement - Generator, Air Conditioning, and Power Steering in Engine 2.0L and Drive Belt Replacement - Cooling Fan and Generator in Engine - 2.5L.

Intermittent
Faulty electrical connections or wiring may be the cause of intermittent conditions. Refer to Testing for Intermittent and Poor Connections in Diagnostic Aids.

Symptom List
Refer to a symptom diagnostic procedure from the following list in order to diagnose the symptom:
Starter Solenoid Does Not Click
Starter Solenoid Clicks, Engine Does Not Crank
Engine Cranks Slowly
Charge Indicator Always On
Charge Indicator Inoperative
Battery Inspection/Test
Battery Charging
Battery Electrical Drain/Parasitic Load Test
Battery Common Causes of Failure
Jump Starting in Case of Emergency
Starter Motor Noise Diagnosis
Charging System Test
Generator Noise Diagnosis