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Home >> Kia >> 2004 >> Rio Base, Automatic >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Electrical >> Starters >> On-Vehicle Testing >> Cold Cranking Test
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Cold Cranking Test

  1. Connect a DVOM tester to the battery terminals. Refer to the operating instructions for the tester being used.
  2. Make sure the parking brake is fully engaged. If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic transaxle, place the shift selector in the PARK position. If the vehicle is equipped with a manual transaxle, place the gearshift lever in the NEUTRAL position.
  3. Make sure that all accessories are turned off.
  4. Turn the ignition switch to START position and observe the cranking voltage and current draw.
  5. If the voltage reading is below 9.6 volts, remove the starter for bench testing. SeeBENCH TESTING  . If the starter bench test is okay, check for engine mechanical problem. See appropriate article in ENGINES. If the starter bench test is not okay, replace the starter. See STARTER  under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION.
  6. If the voltage reading is above 9.6 volts and the current (amperage) draw is below specifications, perform the battery voltage drop test. See BATTERY VOLTAGE DROP TEST  .
  7. If the voltage reading is 12.5 volts or more and the starter doesn't turn, perform solenoid test. See SOLENOID TEST  .
  8. If the voltage reading is 12.5 volts or more and the starter turns very slowly, perform the battery voltage drop test. See BATTERY VOLTAGE DROP TEST  .
NOTE: A cold engine will increase the starter current (amperage) draw reading and reduce the battery voltage reading.
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