NOTE: If vehicle is equipped with anti-theft system and starting system was not found to be at fault, check anti-theft system for proper operation. See appropriate ANTI-THEFT SYSTEMS article in ACCESSORIES & EQUIPMENT.

Ensure battery cables are clean and tight. Check IGN S 0/3/CR (30-amp) fuse on "L" series, or IGN 1/4 (30-amp) fuse on "S" series in underhood junction block. See COMPONENT LOCATIONS . If fuse is okay, go to next step. If fuse is blown, repair short in suspect circuit and replace fuse.
On M/T models, set parking brake, have an assistant depress clutch and turn ignition switch to START position. On A/T models, place transaxle in Park or Neutral position and turn ignition switch to START position. On all models, check for battery voltage at Purple wire of starter solenoid. If battery voltage exists, go to step 5 . If battery voltage does not exist, check for faulty ignition switch, faulty transaxle position switch (A/T) or faulty clutch start switch (M/T). If switches are okay, go to next step.
On M/T models, check for short or open in Yellow wire between ignition switch and clutch start switch. Check for short or open in Purple wire between clutch start switch and starter solenoid. Check for short or open in Red wire between underhood junction block and ignition switch. Also check for short or open in Red wire between underhood junction block and positive battery terminal.
On A/T models, check for short or open in Yellow wire between ignition switch and transaxle position switch. Check for short or open in Purple wire between transaxle position switch and starter solenoid. Check for short or open in Red wire between underhood junction block and ignition switch. Also check for short or open in Red wire between underhood junction block and positive battery terminal.
Check for continuity between starter case and negative battery cable. If continuity exists, replace starter assembly. If continuity does not exist, check for clean contact between starter case and engine block. If ground is okay between starter case and engine block, check for open engine ground strap.

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

Starter Does Not Crank, Starter Solenoid Does Not Click

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

When to See a Mechanic

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