Remove spark plug cable from No. 2 cylinder. Insert a known good spark plug into spark plug cable and ground plug on engine. Crank engine and check for spark. Repeat procedure at remaining cylinders.
If an irregular, weak spark or no spark is present at one or more cables, go to IGNITION COIL RESISTANCE TEST. If no spark is present, ensure battery is fully charged (at least 12.4 volts) and connect voltmeter to ignition coil B+ (battery) terminal. See Fig 1 .
Crank engine for at least 5 seconds while checking voltage at coil terminal. If voltage remains near zero during entire cranking period, go to appropriate TESTS W/CODES in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE Section.
If voltmeter reading is near battery voltage, and then drops to zero after 1-2 seconds of cranking, go to appropriate TESTS W/CODES in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE Section and test camshaft and crankshaft position sensor circuits.
If voltmeter reading remains at or near battery voltage during entire cranking period, turn ignition off. Disconnect 60-pin connector from SBEC (engine controller) and check terminals for poor connections.

NOTE: Cylinders No. 1 and 5, cylinders No. 2 and 6, and cylinders No. 3 and 4 are grouped together.

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.

Safety Warning

Spark Test