Starter Performance Test

Disconnect the wires from the S terminal and the M terminal.
Make the connections 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.
Connect the battery as shown. Make sure you disconnect the starter motor wire from the M terminal. If the starter pinion moves out, it is working properly.

Fig 1: Checking Starter Performance
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
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: Identifying Battery From M Terminal
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: Disconnecting Battery From Starter Body
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Clamp the starter firmly in a vise.
Reconnect the wire to the M terminal.
Connect the starter to the battery as shown, and confirm that the motor runs.

Fig 4: Connecting Starter To Battery
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
If the electric current meets the specification when the battery voltage is at 11.5 V, the starter is working properly.
Specification
MODEL SPECIFICATION

'00-03 models: 1.0 kW
'04-09 models: 1.1 kW 90 A or less (Electric current)