GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Preliminary Inspection

Perform the following checks before beginning diagnosis:

Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

Caution: This vehicle is equipped with a Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) System. Failure to follow the correct procedure could cause the following conditions:

   • Air bag deployment
   • Personal injury
   • Unnecessary SIR system repairs
In order to avoid the above conditions, observe the following guidelines:
   • Refer to SIR Component Views in order to determine if you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring.
   • If you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring, disable the SIR system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System.

    • Battery -- Load test the battery. Refer to Battery Electrical Drain/Parasitic Load Test .
    • Wiring -- Inspect the wiring for damage. Inspect all connections to the starter motor solenoid, the battery and all the ground connections. Clean and tighten the connections as required.
    • Engine -- Make sure the engine is not seized.
    •  When the battery, the wiring and the engine are functioning properly, refer to one of the following:
       -  Starter Solenoid Does Not Click
       -  Starter Solenoid Clicks, Engine Does Not Crank
       -  Engine Cranks/Cranks Slowly, but Does Not Start