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.
System Testing: Notes
Identify symptom and perform corrective action as necessary. See SYSTEM TESTS INDEX & TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE table.
| Component | Symptom | Action Or TEST No. |
|---|---|---|
| All Meters, Gauges & Lights | No Display At All | TEST 1 |
| " | 4 Indicator Needles Do Not Illuminate | Replace Meter Computer |
| " | One Indicator Needle Does Not Illuminate | TEST 2 |
| " | Character Plate Not Illuminated At One Or More Locations | TEST 3 |
| " | Brightness Does Not Change When Lights Are Turned On | TEST 4 |
| " | Brightness Does Not Change When Rheostat Is Turned | TEST 5 |
| " | Brightness Remains Dim With Light Switch OFF | Replace Meter Computer |
| " | Brightness Does Not Go Out When Starter Is Operated | TEST 6 |
| Speedometer | Does Not Operate While Driving | TEST 7 |
| Speedometer | Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) Signal Faulty | TEST 8 |
| Tachometer | Does Not Operate | TEST 9 |
| Fuel Gauge | Does Not Operate Or Operation Is Abnormal | TEST 10 |
| Fuel Level Warning | Warning Does Not Illuminate Or Always Illuminated | TEST 11 |
| Engine Coolant Temp. Gauge | Does Not Operate Or Operation Is Abnormal | TEST 12 |
| Low Oil Pressure Warning | Abnormal Operation Or Warning Does Not Illuminate | TEST 13 |
| Brake Warning | Abnormal Operation Or Warning Does Not Illuminate | TEST 14 |
| Rear Light Failure Warning | Abnormal Operation Or Warning Does Not Illuminate | TEST 15 |
| Open Door Warning | Abnormal Operation Or Warning Does Not Illuminate | TEST 16 |
| Engine Oil Level Warning | Always On | TEST 17 |
| Seat Belt Warning Chime | Abnormal Operation Or Chime Does Not Illuminate | See COMPONENT TESTS |
| SEAT BELT Warning | Abnormal Operation Or Warning Does Not Illuminate | TEST 18 |
| Turn Signal Indicator | Abnormal Operation Or Indicator Does Not Illuminate | TEST 19 |
| TRAC OFF Indicator | Abnormal Operation Or Indicator Does Not Illuminate | TEST 20 |
| O/D OFF Indicator | Abnormal Operation Or Indicator Does Not Illuminate | TEST 21 |
| Shift Position Indicator | Abnormal Operation Or Indicator Does Not Illuminate | TEST 22 |
| Malfunction Indicator | Abnormal Operation Or Indicator Does Not Illuminate | TEST 23 |
| ABS Warning | Abnormal Operation Or Warning Does Not Illuminate | TEST 24 |
| CRUISE Indicator | Abnormal Operation Or Indicator Does Not Illuminate | TEST 25 |
| SRS Warning | Abnormal Operation Or Warning Does Not Illuminate | TEST 26 |
| Discharge Warning | Abnormal Operation Or Warning Does Not Illuminate | TEST 27 |
| Hi-Beam Indicator | Abnormal Operation Or Indicator Does Not Illuminate | TEST 28 |
| Window Washer Warning | Abnormal Operation Or Warning Does Not Illuminate | TEST 29 |
| Slip Indicator | Abnormal Operation Or Warning Does Not Illuminate | TEST 30 |
| Taillight Indicator | Abnormal Operation Or Indicator Does Not Illuminate | TEST 31 |
| Headlight Indicator | Abnormal Operation Or Indicator Does Not Illuminate | TEST 32 |
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.
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