Starter Motor - Ground Circuit Test
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Mazda Tribute. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE:
- Make all multimeter connections at the component terminal rather than the cable or wiring terminal.
- Disconnect the ignition coil connector.
- Connect a remote starter switch between the starter solenoid S-terminal and the battery positive (+) terminal.
- Connect the positive (+) lead of digital multimeter to the starter motor housing. The connection must be clean and free of rust or grease. Connect the negative (-) lead to the negative (-) battery terminal.
- Engage the remote starter switch and read the voltage. The reading should be 0.2 volt or less.
- If the voltage drop is greater than 0.2 volt, clean the negative (-) battery cable connections at the battery, the body ground connections, and the starter ground connections. Retest.
- If the voltage is still more than 0.2 volt, install a new cable. If the reading is less than 0.2 volt and the engine still cranks slowly, install a new starter motor.