Starter Inhibit Relay Circuit Diagnosis

Diagnostic Chart:

Schematic:

CIRCUIT DESCRIPTION
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has the ability to disable starter operation if conditions inappropriate for starter operation exist. The PCM disables the starter if the engine is running, if a correct theft deterrent password is not received or if the vehicle operator attempts to engage the starter for an extended period of time.

The PCM controlled starter system consists of the following components:
^ Crank relay located in the Top Underhood Electrical Center.
^ The Ignition Switch.
^ Starter solenoid mounted on the Starter.
^ The PCM located in the Air Cleaner assembly.
^ Crank input circuit.

DIAGNOSTIC AIDS
The PCM controlled starter diagnosis is intended to identify electrical malfunctions that can occur with the system. For additional system diagnosis, refer to A Diagnostic System Check - Starting and Charging. Testing and Inspection

Inspect for the following conditions:

IMPORTANT: Remove any debris from the connector surfaces before servicing a component. Inspect the connector gaskets when diagnosing or replacing a component. Ensure that the gaskets are installed correctly. The gaskets prevent contaminate intrusion.

^ Poor terminal connection - Inspect the harness connectors for backed out terminals, improper mating, broken locks, improperly formed or damaged terminals, and faulty terminal to wire connection. Use a corresponding mating terminal to test for proper tension.
^ Damaged harness - Inspect the wiring harness for damage. If the harness inspection does not reveal a problem, observe the display on the scan tool while moving connectors and wiring harnesses related to the sensor. A change in the scan tool display may indicate the location of the fault.
^ PCM and engine grounds for clean and secure connections

If the DTC is determined to be intermittent, reviewing the Failure Records can be useful in determining when the DTC was last set.

TEST DESCRIPTION
The numbers below refer to step numbers in the diagnostic table:
2. If the engine cranks with the vehicle ignition off, there are three possible malfunction areas:
^ A malfunctioning crank relay
^ A short to voltage in the starter feed circuit
^ A short to voltage in the starter enable circuit