Symptom Simulation Tests

This method is useful when the customer complaint analysis indicates that the problem occurs when the vehicle/system undergoes some form of vibration.

For connectors and wire harness, slightly shake vertically and horizontally. Inspect the connector joint and body for damage. Also, tapping lightly along a suspected circuit may be helpful.

For parts and sensors, apply slight vibration to the part with a light tap of the finger while monitoring the system for a malfunction.

This method is important when the complaint suggests that the problem occurs in a heated environment. Apply moderate heat to the component with a hair drier or similar tool while monitoring the system for a malfunction.

This method may be used when the complaint suggests that the malfunction occurs on a rainy day or under conditions of high humidity. In this case, apply water in a light spray on the vehicle to duplicate the problem.

This method involves turning systems ON (such as the blower, lights or rear window defogger) to create a load on the vehicle electrical system at the same time you are monitoring the suspect circuit/component.