Before diagnosing starter problems, ensure the battery is fully charged. If the starter motor does not turn when the switch is operated, check that the shift lever is in Park for automatic transmissions or that the clutch pedal is depressed for manual transmissions. Verify that the battery is charged and all cables at the battery and
Starter Solenoid terminals are secure. If the starter motor spins but the engine does not crank, the overrunning clutch in the starter motor is slipping, necessitating replacement of the starter motor. If the starter motor does not operate at all but the solenoid clicks when the switch is actuated, the issue may be with the battery, the main solenoid contacts, or the starter motor itself. If the solenoid plunger is not audible when the switch is actuated, the solenoid may be defective or the circuit could be open. To test the solenoid, connect a jumper lead between the battery positive terminal and the solenoid terminal; if the starter motor operates, the solenoid is functioning properly, indicating a problem with the ignition switch, neutral start switch, or wiring. If the starter motor still does not operate, remove the starter/solenoid assembly for repair or replacement. If the starter motor cranks the engine slowly, first ensure the battery is charged and all terminal connections are tight; a partially seized engine or incorrect oil viscosity can also cause slow cranking. Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature, then disconnect the coil wire from the distributor cap and ground it on the engine. Connect a voltmeter positive lead to the starter motor terminal of the solenoid and the negative lead to ground. Turn the ignition switch to Start and take a voltmeter reading as soon as a steady figure is indicated, avoiding more than 30 seconds of starter motor operation at a time. A reading of 9 volts or more with normal cranking speed is acceptable; if the reading is 9 volts or more but cranking speed is slow, the motor is faulty. If the reading is less than 9 volts and cranking speed is slow, the solenoid contacts may be burned.