Component Tests and General Diagnostics: Diagnosis and Testing
Cold cranking test1. Connect a DVOM tester to the battery terminals. Refer to the operating instructions for the tester being used.
2. Make sure the parking brake is fully engaged. If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic transaxle, place the shift selector in the PARK position. If the vehicle is equipped with a manual transaxle, place the gearshift lever in the NEUTRAL position.
3. Make sure that all accessories are turned off.
4. Turn the ignition switch to START and observe the cranking voltage and current draw.
5. If the voltage reading is below 9.6 volts, remove the starter for bench testing. If the starter bench test is okay, refer to Engine Mechanical for further diagnosis of the engine. If the starter bench test is not okay, replace the starter.
6. If the voltage reading is above 9.6 V and the current (amperage) draw is below specifications, go to the BATTERY VOLTAGE DROP TEST.
7. If the voltage reading is 12.5V or more and the starter doesn't turn, go to the SOLENOID TEST.
8. If the voltage reading is 12.5V or more and the starter turns very slowly, go to the BATTERY VOLTAGE DROP TEST.
NOTE: A cold engine will increase the starter current (amperage) draw reading and reduce the battery voltage reading
Solenoid test
1. Remove the starter.
2. Check for continuity between the solenoid terminal and the field coil terminal. If there is continuity, go to next step. If there is no continuity, repair/replace the faulty components and retest.
3. Check for continuity between the solenoid terminal and the solenoid case. If there is continuity, check the Starter Relay, Park/Neutral Position Switch, Clutch Pedal Position Switch and Ignition Switch. Refer to the Rio Electrical Troubleshooting. If there is no continuity, repair/replace the faulty components and retest.