Ignition System

TROUBLESHOOTING SYMPTOM CHART - IGNITION SYSTEM

Symptom	Suspect area	Remedy
Engine will not start or is hard to start (Cranks OK)	Ignition lock	switch Inspect ignition lock switch, or replace as required
	Ignition coil	Inspect ignition coil, or replace as required
	Spark plugs	Inspect spark plugs, or replace as required
	Ignition wiring disconnected or broken	Repair wiring, or replace as required.
Rough idle or stalls	Ignition wiring	Repair wiring, or replace as required.
Rough idle or stalls	Ignition coil	Inspect ignition coil, or replace as required
Engine hesitates/poor acceleration	Spark plugs and spark plug cables	Inspect spark plugs/cable, or replace as required
Engine hesitates/poor acceleration	Ignition wiring	Repair wiring, or replace as required.
Poor mileage	Spark plugs and spark plug cables	Inspect spark plugs/cable, or replace as required

Charging System

TROUBLESHOOTING SYMPTOM CHART - CHARGING SYSTEM

Symptom	Suspect area	Remedy
Charging warning indicator does not light with ignition switch "ON" and engine off.	Fuse blown	Check fuses
	Light burned out	Replace light
	Wiring connection loose	Tighten loose connection
	Electronic voltage regulator	Replace voltage regulator
Charging warning indicator does not go out with engine running. (Battery requires frequent recharging)	Drive belt loose or worn	Adjust belt tension or replace belt
	Battery cable loose, corroded or worn	Inspect cable connection, repair or replace cable.
	Electronic voltage regulator or alternator	Replace voltage regulator or alternator
	Wiring	Repair or replace wiring.
Overcharge	Electronic voltage regulator	Replace voltage regulator
Overcharge	Voltage sensing wire	Repair or replace wiring.
Discharge	Drive belt loose or worn	Adjust belt tension or replace belt
	Wiring connection loose or short circuit	Inspect wiring connection, repair or replace wiring.
	Electronic voltage regulator or alternator	Replace voltage regulator or alternator
	Poor grounding	Inspect ground or repair.
	Worn battery	Replace battery

Starting System

TROUBLESHOOTING SYMPTOM CHART - STARTING SYSTEM

Symptom	Suspect area	Remedy
Engine will not crank	Battery charge low	Charge or replace battery
	Battery cables loose, corroded or worn out	Repair or replace cables.
	Transaxle range switch (Vehicle with automatic transaxle only)	Refer to INHIBITER SWITCH
	Fuse blown	Replace fuse
	Starter motor faulty	Replace
	Ignition switch faulty	Replace
Engine cranks slowly	Battery charge low	Charge or replace battery
	Battery cables loose, corroded or worn out	Repair or replace cables.
	Starter motor faulty	Replace
Starter keeps running	Starter motor	Replace
Starter keeps running	Ignition switch	Replace
Starter spins but engine will not crank	Short in wiring	Repair wiring.
	Pinion gear teeth broken or starter motor	Replace
	Ring gear teeth broken	Replace fly wheel or torque converter

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

General Information (Engine Electrical System): Troubleshooting