Starter Ground Circuit Test
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE:
Make all voltmeter connections at component terminal rather than at cable or wire end.
- Disconnect ignition coil connector. Connect remote starter switch between starter solenoid terminal "S" and positive battery post. See Fig 1. Connect positive voltmeter lead to starter housing, and negative lead to negative battery post.
- Engage remote starter switch while observing voltmeter. Voltmeter should indicate .2 volt or less. If voltmeter indicates greater than .2 volt, clean negative cable connections at battery, body ground connections and starter ground connections. Then retest.
- If voltage drop is still excessive, repair or replace negative battery cable and/or engine ground cable as necessary. Repeat starter circuit test after repair to ensure problem has been corrected.
- If the reading is less than .2 volt and the engine still cranks slowly, install a new starter motor. See STARTER MOTOR under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION.