Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Circuit/System Testing
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.
For Vehicles equipped with OnStar® (UE1) with Back Up Battery:
The Back Up Battery is a redundant power supply to allow limited OnStar® functionality in the event of a main vehicle battery power disruption to the VCIM (OnStar®module). Do not disconnect the main vehicle battery or remove the OnStar® fuse with the ignition key in any position other than OFF. Retained accessory power (RAP) should be allowed to time out or be disabled (simply opening the driver door should disable RAP) before disconnecting power. Disconnecting power to the OnStar® module in any way while the ignition is On or with RAP activated may cause activation of the OnStar® Back-Up Battery (BUB) system and will discharge and permanently damage the back-up battery. Once the Back-Up Battery is activated it will stay on until it has completely discharged. The BUB is not rechargeable and once activated the BUB must be replaced.
- Verify the C1 battery case is not cracked, broken, or damaged, which may be indicated by battery acid leakage.
- If there is any apparent damage
Replace the C1 battery.
- If there is no damage
- If there is any apparent damage
- Verify the cold cranking amperage and amperage hour rating of the C1 battery. Refer to the manufacturer specifications on the battery label.
- If the C1 battery does not meet or exceed specifications
Replace the C1 Battery.
- If the C1 Battery meets or exceeds specifications
- If the C1 battery does not meet or exceed specifications
- Verify that the battery cables are clean and tight. The battery terminal bolts should be torqued as specified in Fastener Tightening Specifications .
- If the battery cables need to be cleaned or tightened
Clean as required and tighten as specified.
- If the battery cables are clean and tight
- If the battery cables need to be cleaned or tightened
- Install the battery tester and follow directions supplied by the tester.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.