Starter Performance Test

Disconnect the wire from the M terminal.
Make a connection for this test using the thickest (gauge) wire possible (preferably the same gauge as used on the vehicle).
NOTE: To avoid damaging the starter, never leave the battery connected for more than 10 seconds.

Fig 1: Testing Starter Pinion - Moves Out
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Connect the battery as shown. Make sure you disconnect the starter motor wire from the solenoid. If the starter pinion moves out, it is working properly.
Disconnect the battery from the M terminal. If the pinion does not retract, the hold-in coil of the solenoid is working properly.

Fig 2: Testing Starter Pinion Hold-In Coil
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Disconnect the battery from the starter body. If the pinion retracts immediately, it is working properly.

Fig 3: Testing Starter Pinion - Pinion Retracts
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Firmly clamp the starter in a vise.
Reconnect the wire to the M terminal.
Connect the starter to the battery as shown in the diagram, and check that the motor turns and keeps rotating.

Fig 4: Checking Starter Motor Turns And Current Draw
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
If the electric current meets the specification when the battery voltage is at 11 V, the starter is working properly.
Specification

Electric Current: 90 A or less