Cranking Test

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 23 other vehicles, including the 2000 Plymouth Voyager, 2000 Plymouth Neon, 2000 Plymouth Grand Voyager, 2000 Plymouth Breeze, and 2000 Dodge Stratus. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Ensure engine is at normal operating temperature. High viscosity oil, extreme cold temperatures, or tight engine will increase amperage draw.

Using a battery load tester, connect positive and negative leads to battery. Connect inductive ammeter pick-up to positive battery cable. Disable ignition and fuel systems. See DISABLING/ENABLING IGNITION & FUEL SYSTEMS .
Ensure all lights and accessories are off. Place A/T in Park position or M/T in Neutral position. Apply parking brake. Crank engine and observe voltmeter reading. If voltage is more than 9.6 volts and cranking amperage draw is more than specified amps, proceed to CIRCUIT RESISTANCE TESTS . See STARTER SPECIFICATIONS - CARS or STARTER SPECIFICATIONS - TRUCKS .
If voltage is 12.5 volts or more and cranking amperage draw is less than specified, check starter circuit components in the following order: starter solenoid, starter relay, starter relay circuit, park/neutral position switch or transmission range sensor (A/T), clutch pedal position switch (M/T), ignition switch, wiring harness and connections.