GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Engine Cranks/Cranks Slowly, but Does Not Start

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

1

Did you review the starting system operation and perform the necessary inspections?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Symptoms

2

Verify that the engine cranks/cranks slowly but does not start.

Does the engine start?

--

Go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections in Wiring Systems

Go to Step 3

3

  1. Inspect that the battery is properly charged.
  2. Turn the ignition switch to the START position.
  3. Wait 15 seconds and measure the voltage at the battery while cranking the engine.

Is the voltage reading greater than the specified value?

9.5 V

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 5

4

Measure the voltage between the B- terminal and the engine block while cranking the engine.

Is the reading greater than the specified value?

0.5 V

Go to Step 6

Go to Step 7

5

Load test the battery. Refer to Battery Electrical Drain/Parasitic Load Test .

Is the battery OK?

--

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 9

6

Replace the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Cable . Does the starter solenoid continue to click and the engine to crank slowly or not at all?

--

Go to Step 7

Go to Step 11

7

Measure the voltage between the B+ terminal and the starter solenoid terminal B while cranking the engine.

Is the reading greater than the specified value?

0.5 V

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 8

8

Repair or replace the starter. Refer to Starter Motor Replacement .

Does the starter solenoid continue to click and the engine to crank slowly or not at all?

--

Go to Step 9

Go to Step 11

9

Replace the battery. Refer to Battery Replacement .

Does the starter solenoid continue to click and the engine to crank slowly or not at all?

--

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 11

10

Replace the positive battery cable. Refer to Battery Cable .

Is the repair complete?

--

Go to Step 11

--

11

Operate the system in order to verify the repair.

Did you correct the condition?

--

System OK

Go to Step 3