Note: Before performing starter diagnostics, make sure the battery is fully charged and the hazard warning system and immobilizer are not activated.
1. If the starter does not rotate at all when turned on, then on models with automatic transmission you need to check whether the selector is set to position "P" or "N".
2. Make sure the battery is fully charged and all wires connected to the battery and starter solenoid terminals are clean and secure.
3. If the starter rotates but the engine does not turn, it is possible that the overrunning clutch or (depending on the version) the starter reduction gear is slipping. In this case, the starter must be replaced or repaired. Other possible causes of this malfunction are loose starter mounting bolts or broken flywheel/faceplate teeth.
4. If, when turned on, the starter does not turn at all, but a click from the solenoid is heard, then the cause of the malfunction is due to the battery, the main contacts of the solenoid, or the starter motor itself (or a jam in the car engine).
5. If the solenoid plunger click is not heard when the starter is turned on, then the battery is faulty, the power supply circuit is faulty, or the solenoid itself is faulty.
6. To check the solenoid, connect the auxiliary wire through the fuse to the battery positive and the ignition switch terminal (small terminal on the solenoid). If the starter works after this, then the solenoid is normal, and the malfunction is caused by the ignition switch, the selector position sensor (automatic transmission) or the wiring.
7. If the starter still does not work, remove it. The brushes and collector can be checked. But if the starter remains faulty, then it must be replaced or given to an auto electrician for inspection and repair.
8. If the starter turns the engine too slowly, first check that the battery is charged and that all terminals are securely tightened. If the engine is seized or the oil is not of the correct viscosity, it will turn slowly.
9. Let the engine run until it warms up and reaches normal operating temperature. Then turn off and disconnect the ignition system. disconnecting the ignition coil electrical connector. Remove fuse #14 to disconnect the fuel pump.
10. Connect the positive terminal of the voltmeter to the positive terminal of the battery and the negative terminal to the negative terminal.
11. Crank the engine with the starter and read the voltmeter reading as soon as the needle stops indicating the voltage value. Do not operate the starter for more than 15 seconds at a time. If the voltmeter shows 10.5 volts or more when the starter turns the engine at normal speed, this is normal. If the voltmeter shows 10.5 volts or more but the rotation speed is slow, the solenoid contacts are burnt, the starter motor is faulty, or the connection is poor. If the voltmeter shows less than 10.5 volts and the engine turns slowly, the starter is faulty or the fault is in the battery.