1998 Saturn SW2 AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Battery/Starter Load Test (ARBST Test)

  1. Connect ARBST large Red tester cable to battery positive. Connect ARBST large Black tester cable to battery negative. Place Gray inductive current pick-up around battery positive cable. Ensure arrow on Gray inductive pick-up is pointing toward starter motor solenoid.
    NOTE: Place Gray inductive current pick-up around battery positive cable between battery positive terminal and starter solenoid connection. Easiest place to connect inductive pick-up is next to brake master cylinder. Battery positive cable runs under master cylinder and is covered by a protective wire conduit. This conduit does not need to be removed for this test. On models equipped with Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), inductive pick-up can be placed between ABS master cylinder and starter motor.
  2. Disable ignition system by disconnecting ignition module electrical connector. Press STARTER TEST button on ARBST tester. Position tester so display can be seen from driver's seat.
  3. When display says CRANK ENGINE, turn ignition to START position. Tester will continue to display CRANK ENGINE for 15 seconds.
  4. Tester display will display CRANKING AMPS, which shows average amperage drawn by starter during cranking. Amperage should be 80-120 amps at 40-80°F (5-27°C), 70-110 amps at greater than 120°F (50°C), and 90-130 amps at less than 40°F (5°C).
  5. Tester will display CRANKING VOLTAGE, which shows average battery voltage during cranking. If voltage is less than 9.5 volts, perform battery load test.
  6. Tester will display GOOD STARTER or BAD STARTER. If display reads BAD STARTER, ensure no engine or flywheel problems and replace starter motor.
Factory Service Tools

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Shop Manual-Ready ToolsCompare Repair QuoteQuote Shield Pro

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.