Chap 36

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Automotive Technology: Principles, Diagnosis, and Service, 3rd Edition ©©2008
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OBJECTIVES:
After studying Chapter 36, the reader should
be able to:
• Prepare for ASE Electrical/Electronic Systems
(A6) certification test content area “A ”
(General Electrical/Electronics System
Diagnosis).
• Draw the symbols used on schematics.
• Discuss the various methods that can be use
to locate a short circuit.
• List the electrical troubleshooting diagnosis
steps.
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KEY TERMS:
double-pole, double-throw switch (DPDT) • double-pole,
single-throw switch (DPST)
gauss gauge • momentary switch
normally closed (N.C.) • normally open (N.O.) • poles
relay • short circuit • single-pole, double-throw switch

(SPDT) • single-pole, single-throw switch (SPST)
terminal • throws • tone generator tester
wiring schematic
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WIRING SCHEMATICS
Manufacturers’ service manuals include wiring schematics of all
the electrical circuits of a vehicle. A wiring schematic, called a
diagram, shows electrical components and wiring using symbols
and lines to represent components and wires.
A typical wiring schematic may include all of the circuits

combined on several large fold-out sheets, or they may be broken
down to show individual circuits.
All circuit schematics or diagrams include the power-side wiring

of the circuit and all splices, connectors, electrical components,
and ground return paths.
Gauge and color of wiring are included on most wiring diagrams.

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Circuit Information Many wiring schematics include numbers
and letters near components and wires that may confuse readers
of the schematic. Most letters used near or on a wire identify the
color or colors of the wire. The first color
or color abbreviation is the color of the
insulation, the second color is the color
of the strip or tracer on the base color.
Chart on Page 370 of your textbook.

Figure 36–1 The center wire is a solid color wire, meaning that
the wire has no other identifying tracer or stripe color. The two
end wires could be labeled “BRN/WHT,” indicating a brown wire
with a white tracer or stripe.
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Shown here is a rear side-marker bulb circuit diagram where “.8 ”
indicates the metric wire gauge size in square millimeters (mm2)
and “PPL ” indicates a solid purple wire.
The diagram also shows the color of the wire changes at C210. This
stands for “connector #210” and is used for reference purposes, and
can vary depending on the manufacturer.
The color change from purple (PPL) to purple with a white tracer
(PPL/WHT) is not important except to know where the wire
changes color in the circuit. Wire gauge remained the same on
both sides of the connection
Figure 36–2
Typical section of a wiring diagram. Notice that
the wire color changes at connection C210. The
“.8” represents the metric wire size in square
millimeters.
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Electrical and electronic symbols used in wiring & circuit diagrams.
See the chart on Page 371 of Figure 36–3 This figure shows typical
electrical and electronic symbols used in
your textbook. automotive wiring and circuit diagrams.
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Read The Arrows
Wiring diagrams indicate connections by symbols that look like arrows.
Do not read these “arrows” as pointers showing the direction of current
flow. Also observe that the power side (positive side) of the circuit is
usually the female end of the connector.
Figure 36–4
In this typical connector, note that the positive terminal is usually a female connector.
If a connector becomes disconnected, it will be difficult for the circuit to
become shorted to ground or to another circuit because the wire is
recessed inside the connector.
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SCHEMATIC SYMBOLS
Schematic drawings replace photos, or line drawings of actual
components with a symbol that represents the actual component:
Battery The plates of a battery are represented by long and short
lines. The longer line represents the positive plate of a battery and
the shorter line represents the negative plate of the battery. Each
pair of short and long lines represents one cell of a battery.
Figure 36–5 The symbol for a battery. The positive plate of a battery is represented by the
longer line and the negative plate by the shorter line. The voltage of the battery is usually stated
next to the symbol.
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Because each cell of a typical automotive lead-acid battery has 2.1
volts, a battery symbol showing a 12-volt battery should have six
pairs of lines. However, most symbols simply use two or three pairs
of long and short lines and list battery voltage next to the symbol.
The positive terminal of the battery is indicated with a plus sign (+),
representing the positive post of the battery, placed next to the long
line of the end cell. The negative (ground) terminal is represented
by a negative sign (–) and is placed next to the shorter cell line.
Figure 36–6
The ground symbol on the left
represents earth ground. The
ground symbol on the right
represents a chassis ground.
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Wiring Electrical wiring is shown as straight lines with a few
numbers and/or letters to indicate:
Wire size—This can be either AWG, such as 18 gauge or in
square millimeters, such as 0.8.
Circuit numbers—Each wire in part of a circuit is labeled with
the circuit number to help the service tech trace the wiring and
allows for an explanation of how the circuit is supposed to work.
Wire color—Most schematics also indicate an abbreviation for
the color of the wire and place it next to the wire. Many wires
have two colors: a solid color and a stripe color. In this case, the
solid color is listed, and then a dark slash (/) and the color of the
stripe is listed. For example, red/wht would indicate a red wire
with a white tracer.
See Figure 36–7.

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Figure 36–7 Starting at the top, the wire from the ignition switch is attached to terminal B of
connector C2, the wire is 0.5 mm 2 (20-gauge AWG) and is yellow. The circuit marker is 5. The
wire enters connector C202 at terminal B3.
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Terminals—The metal part attached at the end of a wire is called
a terminal. A symbol for a terminal is shown in Figure 36–8.
Wire connections—When two wires are electrically connected,
the junction is shown with a black dot. See Figure 36–9.
When two wires cross in a schematic that are not electrically
connected, one of the wires is shown as going over the other wire
and does not connect. See Figure 36–10.
Connectors—An electrical connector is a plastic part that
contains one or more terminals. While the terminals provide the
electrical connection in a circuit, it is the plastic connector that
keeps the terminals together mechanically.
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Figure 36–8 Figure 36–9
The electrical terminals are usually Two wires that cross at the dot indicate that the two are
labeled with a letter, as shown on electrically connected.
this cooling fan motor.
Figure 36–10
Wires that cross, but do not electrically contact each
other, are shown with one wire bridging over the other.
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Connections are usually labeled with a “C ” and three numbers
which indicate the general location of the connector.
Connector numbers represent the general area of the vehicle.
Even-numbered connectors are on the right (passenger side) of the

vehicle, odd-numbered connectors on the left (driver’s side).
100 to 199 Under the hood 500 to 599 Left-front door

200 to 299 Under the dash 600 to 699 Right-front door
300 to 399 Passenger compartment 700 to 799 Left-rear door
400 to 499 Rear package or 800 to 899 Right-rear door
trunk area
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Figure 36–11
Connectors (C), grounds (G), and splices (S) are followed by a number, generally indicating the
location in the vehicle. For example, G209 is a ground connection located under the dash.
C-102 is a connector located under the hood (between 100 and 199)
on the right side of the vehicle (even number 102).
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Grounds and Splices—Grounds and splices are also labeled
using the same general format as connectors.
Figure 36–12 The ground for the battery is labeled
G305 indicating the ground connector is located in
the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The
ground wire is black (BLK), the circuit number is 50,
and the wire is 32 mm 2 (2-gauge AWG).
A ground located under the

dash on the driver’s side
could be labeled G-201
(G means ground).
A splice indication is an “S”

followed by three numbers,
such as S-301.
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Electrical Components Most components have their own unique
symbol that shows basic function or parts.
Bulbs—Light bulbs usually use a filament, which heats and then
gives off light when electrical current flows. The symbol used for
a light bulb shows a circle with a filament inside. A dual-filament
bulb, such as is used for taillights and brake light/turn signals, is
shown with two filaments.
Figure 36–13 The symbol for light bulbs shows the filament inside a circle, which represents
the glass ampoule of the bulb.
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Electric Motors An electric motor symbol shows a circle with the
letter “M ” in the center and two electrical connections, one to the
top and one at the bottom. See Figure 36–14 for an example of a
cooling fan motor.
Resistors Usually part of another component, the symbol does

appear on many schematics and wiring diagrams. A resistor symbol
is a jagged line representing resistance to current flow.
If the resistor is variable, such as a Thermistor, an arrow is shown

running through the symbol of a fixed resistor.
A potentiometer is a three-wire variable resistor and it is shown with

an arrow pointing toward the resistance part of a fixed resistor.
See Figure 36–15

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Figure 36–14 An electric motor symbol shows a circle with the letter “M ” in the center and two
black sections that represent the brushes of the motor. This symbol is used even though the
motor is a cross-flow design.
Figure 36–15
Resistor symbols vary depending on the type of resistor.
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A two-wire rheostat is usually shown as part of another unit, such as
a fuel level sending unit.
Figure 36–16 A rheostat uses just two wires—one is connected to a voltage source and the
other is attached to the movable arm.
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Capacitors Usually part of an electronic component and not a
replaceable component. Older vehicles used capacitors to reduce
radio interference. They were installed inside alternators or attached
to wiring connectors. See Figure 36–17.
Electric Heated Unit Electric grid-type rear window defoggers and

cigarette lighters are shown in a square box-type symbol.
Figure 36–18.
Boxed Components If a component is shown in a box using a solid

line, the box is the entire component. If a box uses dashed lines, it
represents a part of a component. A commonly used dashed-line box
is a fuse panel. Often, just one or two fuses are shown in a dashed-
line box, meaning the fuse panel has more fuses than shown.
See Figures 36–19 and 36–20.

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Figure 36–17 Figure 36–18
Symbols used to represent capacitors. If The grid-like symbol represents an electrically
one of the lines is curved, this indicates heated element.
that the capacitor being used has a
polarity, while the one without a curved line
can be installed in the circuit without
concern about polarity.
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Figure 36–19
A dashed outline represents a
portion (part) of a component.
Figure 36–20
A solid box represents
an entire component.
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Separate Replaceable Part Often components shown on a
schematic cannot be replaced but are part of a complete assembly.
On a schematic of GM vehicles, the following is shown:
If a part name is underlined, it is a replaceable part.
If a part is not underlined, it is not available as a replaceable part,
but is rather included with other components shown and sold as
an assembly.
If the case itself is grounded,
the ground symbol is attached Figure 36–21
to the component as shown. This symbol represents a
component that is case
grounded.
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Switches Electrical switches are drawn on a wiring diagram in their
normal position. This can be one of two possible positions:
Normally open The switch is not connected to a terminal and no
current flows in this position. This type of switch is labeled N.O.
Normally closed The switch is electrically connected to a con-
tact and current will flow through the switch. This type of switch
is labeled N.C.
NOTE: All switches are shown on schematics in their normal position.

This means that the headlight switch will be shown normally off, as are
most other switches and controls.
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Other switches can use more than two contacts.
The poles refer to the number of circuits completed by the switch

and the throws refer to the number of output circuits. A single-pole,
single-throw (SPST) switch has only two positions—on or off.
A single-pole, double-throw (SPDT) switch has three terminals—

one wire in and two wires out. A headlight dimmer switch is an
example of a typical SPDT switch. In one position, the current flows
to the low-filament headlight; in the other, the current flows to the
high-filament headlight.
There are also double-pole, single-throw (DPST) switches and

double-pole, double-throw (DPDT) switches.
See Figure 36–22.

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Figure 36–22 (a) A symbol for a single-pole, single-throw (SPST) switch. This type of switch is
normally open (N.O.) because nothing is connected to the terminal that the switch is contacting
in its normal position. (b) A single-pole, double-throw (SPDT) swtich has three terminals. (c) A
double-pole, single-throw (DPST) swtch has two positions (off and on) and can control two
separate circuits. (d) A double-pole, double-throw (DPDT) switch has six terminals—three for
each pole. Note: “c ” and “d ” also show a dotted line between the two arms indicating that they
are mechanically connected.
(a) (b) (c) (d)
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Another type of switch that is used on most vehicles is called a
momentary switch. Usually used to send a voltage signal to a
module or controller to request a device be turned on or off.
The switch just makes momentary contact and returns to the open
position. The symbol that represents a momentary switch uses two
dots for the contact with a switch above them.
A momentary switch, for example, can be used to lock or unlock a

door or to turn the air conditioning on or off. If the device is
currently operating, the signal from the momentary switch will turn
it off, and if it is off, the switch will signal the module to turn it on.
An advantage of momentary switches is they can be very lightweight

and small. Most momentary switches use a membrane constructed
of foil and plastic.
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RELAY TERMINAL IDENTIFICATION
A relay is a magnetic switch that uses a movable armature to
control a heavy electrical load by using a low-amperage electrical
switch. Most automotive relays adhere to common terminal
identification.
Relays are found in many circuits because they are capable of

being controlled by computers, yet are able to handle enough
current to power motors and accessories.
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Figure 36–23 A relay uses a movable arm to complete a circuit whenever there is a power at
terminal 86 and a ground at terminal 85. A typical relay only requires about 1/10 ampere through
the relay coil. The movable arm then closes the contacts (#30 to #87) and can relay 30 amperes
or more.
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Figure 36–24 A cross-sectional view of a typical four-terminal relay. Current flowing through
the coil (terminals 86 and 85) causes the movable arm (called the armature) to be drawn toward
the coil magnet. The contact points complete the electrical circuit connected to terminals 30
and 87.
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Most relays use four or five terminals as follows:
A coil that provides magnetic pull to a movable armature (arm).
The resistance of most relay coils ranges from 50 to 150 ohms, but
is usually between 60 and 100 ohms. The International Standard
Organization (ISO) identification of the coil terminals are 86 and
85. Terminal number 86
represents power to the relay coil
85 represents the ground side.
The relay coil can be controlled by

supplying either power or ground
to the relay coil winding.
Figure 36–25
A typical relay showing the schematic of the wiring
in the relay. Terminals #30 and #87 are electrically
connected when the relay is energized.
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The higher amperage current flow through a relay flows through
terminals 30 and 87 and often 87a. Terminal 30 is usually where
power is applied. When the relay is at rest without power and
ground to the coil, the armature inside the relay electrically
connects terminals 30 and 87a if the relay has five terminals.
When there is power at terminal 86 and a ground at terminal 85 of

the relay, a magnetic field is created in the coil winding, which
draws the armature of the relay toward the coil. The armature,
when energized electrically, connects terminals 30 and 87.
The maximum current through the relay is determined by the

resistance of the circuit and relays are designed to safely handle
the designed current flow.

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Figure 36–26 All schematics are shown in
their normal, nonenergized position.
Figure 36–27 A typical horn circuit. Note

that the relay contacts supply the heavy
current to operate the horn when the horn
switch simply completes a low current
circuit to ground, causing the relay contacts
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Relay Voltage Spike Control Relays contain a coil and whenever
power is removed, the magnetic field surrounding the coil collapses,
creating a voltage to be induced in the coil winding.
This induced voltage can be as high as 100 volts or more and can
cause problems with other electronic devices in the vehicle. The
short high-voltage surge can be heard as a “pop ” in the radio.
Figure 36–28 When the relay or solenoid coil

current is turned off, the stored energy in the coil
forward biases the clamping diode and effectively
reduces voltage spike.
To reduce the induced voltage,

some relays contain a diode
connected across the coil in
the reverse bias direction.
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Most relays use a resistor connected in parallel with the coil
winding. The use of a resistor, typically about 400 to 600 ohms,
reduces the voltage spike by providing a path for the voltage
created in the coil to flow back through the coil windings when
the coil circuit is opened.
Figure 36–29
A resistor used in parallel with the coil
windings is a commonly used spike
reduction method used in many relays.
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COMMON POWER OR GROUND
Whenever diagnosing an electrical problem that affects more than
one component or system, check the electrical schematic for a
common power source or a common ground.
See Figure 36–30 for an example where all of the following lights
are powered by one fuse (power source).
Under-hood light Left-side courtesy light
Inside lighted mirrors Right-side courtesy light
Dome light
For a customer complaint involving one or more of the items listed,
check the fuse and the common part of the circuit that feeds all of
affected lights. Check for a common ground if several components
that seem unrelated are not functioning correctly. Continued 38
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Figure 36–30
A typical wiring diagram showing multiple switches and bulbs powered by one fuse.
Schematic on Page 376 of your textbook. 39

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Check Everything
Often, a customer will notice just one fault while other lights or systems
may not be working correctly. For example, a customer noticed that the
electric mirrors stopped working. The service technician checked all
electrical components in the vehicle and discovered that the interior lights
were also not working.
The interior lights were not mentioned by the customer as being a problem
most likely because the driver only used the vehicle in daylight hours.
The service technician found the interior light and power accessory fuse
blown. Replacing the fuse restored the proper operation of the electric
outside mirror and the interior lights.
However, what caused the fuse to blow? A visual inspection of the
dome light, next to the electric sunroof, showed an area where a wire
was bare. Evidence was seen where the bare wire had touched the
metal roof, which could cause the fuse to blow. The technician covered
the bare wire with a section of vacuum hose and then taped the hose
with electrical tape to complete the repair.
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Do It Right—Install a Relay - Part 1
Often the owners of vehicles, especially of pickup trucks and sport utility
vehicles (SUVs), want to add additional electrical accessories or lighting.
It is tempting in these cases to simply splice into an existing circuit.
However, whenever another circuit or component is added, the current that

flows through the newly added component is also added to the current for
the original component.
This additional current can easily overload the fuse and wiring. Do not
simply install a larger-amperage fuse; the wire gauge size was not
engineered for the additional current and could overheat.
The solution is a relay, which uses a small coil to create a magnetic field
that causes a movable arm to switch on a higher-current circuit.
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Do It Right—Install a Relay - Part 2
The typical relay has 50 to 150 ohms (usually 60 to 100) of resistance and
requires just 0.24 to 0.08 amp when connected to a 12-volt source. This
small additional current will not be enough to overload the existing circuit.
Figure 36–31 To add additional lighting, simply tap into an existing light wire and connect a
relay. Whenever the existing light is turned on, the coil of the relay is energized. The arm of the
relay then connects power from another circuit (fuse) to the auxiliary lights without overloading
the existing light circuit.
42
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USING SCHEMATICS FOR TROUBLESHOOTING
Follow these steps when troubleshooting wiring problems.
Step #1 Verify the malfunction. If, for example, the backup lights
do not operate, make certain that the ignition is on (key on, engine
off), with the gear selector in reverse, and check for operation of
the backup lights.
Step #2 Check everything that does or does not operate correctly.

If the taillights are also failing to operate, the problem could be a
loose or broken ground connection in the trunk area that is shared
by both the backup lights and the taillights.
Step #3 Check the fuse for the backup lights. See Figure 36–32.
Continued 43
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Step #4 Check for voltage at the backup light socket. This can be
done using a test light or a voltmeter.
If voltage is available at the socket,
the problem is either a defective
bulb or a poor ground at the socket
or a ground wire connection to the
body or frame.
Figure 36–32 Always check the simple things
first. Check the fuse for the circuit you are
testing. Maybe a fault in another circuit
controlled by the same fuse could have caused
the fuse to blow. Use a test light to check that
both sides of the fuse have voltage.
If no voltage is available at the

socket, consult a wiring diagram.
The wiring diagram should show all of the wiring and components
included in the circuit. 44
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Where to Start?
The common question is, where does a technician start troubleshooting
when using a wiring diagram (schematic)?
HINT 1 If the circuit contains a relay, start your diagnosis at the relay.
The entire circuit can be tested at the terminals of the relay.
HINT 2 The easiest first step is to locate the unit on the schematic that
is not working at all or not working correctly.
a. Trace where the unit gets its ground connection.
b. Trace where the unit gets its power connection.
Often a ground is used by more than one component. Therefore,
ensure that everything else is working correctly. If not, then the
fault may lie at the common ground (or power) connection..
HINT 3 Divide the circuit in half by locating a connector or a part of the
circuit that can be accessed easily. Then check for power and
ground at this midpoint. This step could save you much time.
45
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LOCATING A SHORT CIRCUIT
A short circuit usually blows a fuse, and a replacement fuse often
also blows in the attempt to locate the source of the short circuit.
A short circuit is an electrical connection to another wire or to

ground before the current flows through some or all of the
resistance in the circuit. A short-to-ground will always blow a
fuse and usually involves a wire on the power side of the circuit
coming in contact with metal.
A short-to-voltage may or may not cause the fuse to blow and

usually affects another circuit. Look for areas of heat or
movement where two power wires could come in contact with
each other.
Continued 46
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Several methods can be used to locate the short.
Fuse Replacement Method Disconnect one component at a time
and replace the fuse. If the new fuse blows, continue the process
until the location of the short is determined. This method uses many
fuses and is not a preferred method for finding a short circuit.
Circuit Breaker Method Connect an automotive circuit breaker to

contacts of the fuse holder with alligator clips. Circuit breakers are
available that plug directly into the fuse panel, replacing a blade-
type fuse. The circuit breaker will alternately open and close the
circuit, protecting the wiring from damage while still providing
current flow through the circuit.
NOTE: A heavy-duty (HD) flasher can also be used in place of a circuit

breaker to open and close the circuit. Wires and terminals must be made
to connect the flasher unit where the fuse normally plugs in.
47
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All components in the defective circuit should be disconnected one
at a time until the circuit breaker stops clicking. The unit that was
disconnected and stopped the circuit breaker clicking is the unit
causing the short circuit.
If the circuit breaker continues to click with all circuit components

unplugged, the problem is in the wiring from the fuse panel to any
one of the units in the circuit.
Test Light Method Remove the blown fuse and connect a test light
to the terminals of the fuse holder. If there is a short, current will
flow from the power side of the fuse holder through the test light to
ground through the short circuit, and the test light will light.
Unplug connectors or components protected by the fuse until the test

light goes out.
Continued 48
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Ohmmeter Method The recommended method of finding a short.
An ohmmeter indicates low ohms when connected to a short circuit.
The correct procedure for locating a short using an ohmmeter:
1. Connect one lead of an ohmmeter (set to a low scale) to a good
clean metal ground and the other lead to the circuit side of the
fuse holder.
2. The ohmmeter will read zero or almost zero ohms if the circuit
is shorted.
3. Disconnect one component in the circuit at a time and watch
the ohmmeter. If the ohmmeter reading goes to high ohms or
infinity, the component just unplugged caused the short circuit.
CAUTION: Connecting the lead to the power side of the fuse holder will
cause current flow through and damage to the ohmmeter.
Continued 49
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Gauss Gauge Method A special pulsing circuit breaker (similar to
a flasher unit) can be installed in place of the fuse. Current will flow
through the circuit until the circuit breaker opens the circuit.
As soon as the circuit breaker opens the circuit, it closes again. This
on-and-off current flow creates a pulsing magnetic field around the
wire carrying the current. A Gauss gauge is a handheld meter that
responds to weak magnetic fields.
This pulsing magnetic field will register on the Gauss gauge even
through the metal body of the vehicle. A needle-type compass can
also be used to observe the pulsing magnetic field.
Continued 50
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Figure 36–33 (a) After removing the blown fuse, a pulsing circuit breaker is connected to the
terminals of the fuse. (b) The circuit breaker causes current to flow, then stop, then flow again,
through the circuit up to the point of the short-to-ground. By observing the Gauss gauge, the
location of the short is indicated near where the needle stops moving due to the magnetic field
created by the flow of current through the wire.
Continued 51
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Figure 36–34 A Gauss gauge can be used to determine the location of a short circuit even
behind a metal panel.
A Gauss gauge is used to

observe a pulsing magnetic
field, which is indicated on
the gauge as needle
movement.
Continued 52
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Electronic Tone Generator Tester An electronic tone generator
tester can be used to locate a short-to-ground or an open circuit.
Similar to test equipment used to test telephone and cable television
lines, a tone generator tester generates a tone that can be heard
through a receiver (probe).
The tone will be generated while there is a continuous electrical
path along the circuit. The signal will stop if there is an open (break)
or short-to-ground in the circuit.
The windings in the solenoids and
relays will increase the strength of
the signal in these locations.
Figure 36–35 A tone generator-type tester used
to locate open circuits and circuits that are
shorted-to-ground. Included with this tester is a
transmitter (tone generator), receiver (probe),
and headphones for use in noisy shops.
See Figures 36–36 and 36–37. Continued 53

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Figure 36–36 To check for a short-to-ground using a tone generator, connect the black
transmitter lead to a good chassis ground and the red lead to the load side of the fuse terminal.
Turn the transmitter on and check for tone signal with the receiver. Using a wiring diagram,
follow the strongest signal to the short-to-ground. There will be no signal beyond the fault.
Continued 54
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Figure 36–37 To check for an open (break), connect the red lead of the tone generator to the
load side of the fuse terminal and the black lead to a good chassis ground. Turn on the
transmitter an then listen for the tone signal with the receiver set in the open position. Using a
wiring diagram, follow the signal along the circuit until the tone stops, indicating the location of
the open.
55
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Heat or Movement
Electrical shorts are commonly caused either by movement, which causes
the insulation around the wiring to be worn away, or by heat melting the
insulation. When checking for a short circuit, first check the wiring that is
susceptible to heat, movement, and damage:
1. Heat. Wiring near heat sources, such as the exhaust system,

cigarette lighter, or generator.
2. Wire movement. Wiring that moves, such as in areas near the
doors, trunk, or hood.
3. Damage. Wiring subject to mechanical injury, such as in the trunk,
where heavy objects can move around and smash or damage
wiring. This can also occur as a result of an accident or a previous
repair.
56
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Wiggle Test
Intermittent electrical problems are common yet difficult to locate. To help
locate these hard-to-find problems, try operating the circuit and then start
wiggling the wires and connections that control the circuit.
If in doubt where the wiring goes, try moving all the wiring starting at the
battery. Pay particular attention to wiring running near the battery or the
windshield washer container. Corrosion can cause wiring to fail, and
battery acid fumes and alcohol-based windshield washer fluid can start or
contribute to the problem.
If you notice any change in the operation of the device being tested while
wiggling the wiring, look closer in the area you were wiggling until the
actual problem is located and corrected.
57
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ELECTRICAL TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
1. For a device to work, it must have power and ground.
2. If there is no power to a device, an open power side (blown
fuse, etc.) is indicated.
3. If there is power on both sides of a device, an open ground is
indicated.
4. If a fuse blows immediately, a grounded power-side wire is
indicated.
5. Most electrical faults result from heat or movement.
6. Most noncomputer-controlled devices operate by opening and
closing the power side of the circuit (power-side switch).
7. Most computer-controlled devices operate by opening and
closing the ground side of the circuit (ground-side switch).
58
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STEP-BY-STEP TROUBLESHOOTING
PROCEDURE
The following procedure has been field tested for many years and
provides a step-by-step guide to follow when troubleshooting:
1. Determine the customer concern (complaint) and get as much
information as possible from the customer or service advisor.
a. When did the problem start?
b. Under what conditions does the problem occur?
c. Have there been any recent repairs to the vehicle
which could have created the problem?
2. Verify the customer’s concern by actually observing the fault.
HINT: Split the circuit help isolate the problem and start at the relay.
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3. Perform a thorough visual inspection and be sure to check
everything that does and does not work.
4. Check for technical service bulletins (TSBs).
5. Check the factory service information and follow the
troubleshooting procedure.
a. Determine how the circuit works
b. Determine which part of the circuit is good, based on
what works and what does not work
c. Isolate the problem area
6. Determine the root cause and repair the vehicle.
7. Verify the repair and complete the repair order (R.O.) by listing
the three C’s (complaint, cause, and correction).
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Shocking Experience
A customer complained that after driving for a while, he got a static shock
whenever the door handle was grabbed when exiting the vehicle. The
customer thought that there must be an electrical fault and that the shock
was coming from the vehicle itself. In a way, the shock was caused by the
vehicle, but it was not a fault.
The service technician sprayed the cloth
seats and carpet with an antistatic spray
and the problem did not reoccur.
Obviously, a static charge was being
created by movement of the driver’s
clothing on the seats and discharged
when the driver touched the metal
door handle.
Figure 36–38 Antistatic spray can be used to stop
customers from being shocked when they touch a
metal object like the door handle.
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SUMMARY
1. Most wiring diagrams include the wire color, circuit number,
and wire gauge.
2. The number used to identify connectors, grounds, and splices

usually indicates where they are located in the vehicle.
3. All switches and relays shown on a schematic are shown in

their normal position either normally closed (N.C.) or
normally open (N.O.).
Continued 62
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SUMMARY (cont.)
4. A short-to-voltage affects the power side of the circuit and
usually involves more than one circuit.
5. A short-to-ground usually causes the fuse to blow and usually

affects only one circuit.
6. Most electrical faults are a result of heat or movement.
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end
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Chap 36

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start

gauss gauge • momentary switch

normally closed (N.C.) • normally open (N.O.) • poles

relay • short circuit • single-pole, double-throw switch

terminal • throws • tone generator tester

A typical wiring schematic may include all of the circuits

All circuit schematics or diagrams include the power-side wiring

Gauge and color of wiring are included on most wiring diagrams.

Chart on Page 370 of your textbook.

See Figure 36–7.

Connector numbers represent the general area of the vehicle.

Even-numbered connectors are on the right (passenger side) of the

100 to 199 Under the hood 500 to 599 Left-front door

A ground located under the

A splice indication is an “S”

Resistors Usually part of another component, the symbol does

If the resistor is variable, such as a Thermistor, an arrow is shown

A potentiometer is a three-wire variable resistor and it is shown with

See Figure 36–15

Electric Heated Unit Electric grid-type rear window defoggers and

Boxed Components If a component is shown in a box using a solid

See Figures 36–19 and 36–20.

NOTE: All switches are shown on schematics in their normal position.

The poles refer to the number of circuits completed by the switch

A single-pole, double-throw (SPDT) switch has three terminals—

There are also double-pole, single-throw (DPST) switches and

See Figure 36–22.

(a) (b) (c) (d)

A momentary switch, for example, can be used to lock or unlock a

An advantage of momentary switches is they can be very lightweight

Relays are found in many circuits because they are capable of

See Figures 36–23 and 36–24.

The relay coil can be controlled by

When there is power at terminal 86 and a ground at terminal 85 of

The maximum current through the relay is determined by the

See Figures 36–26 and 36–27.

Figure 36–27 A typical horn circuit. Note

Figure 36–28 When the relay or solenoid coil

To reduce the induced voltage,

Schematic on Page 376 of your textbook. 39

It is tempting in these cases to simply splice into an existing circuit.

However, whenever another circuit or component is added, the current that

Step #2 Check everything that does or does not operate correctly.

If no voltage is available at the

A short circuit is an electrical connection to another wire or to

A short-to-voltage may or may not cause the fuse to blow and

Circuit Breaker Method Connect an automotive circuit breaker to

NOTE: A heavy-duty (HD) flasher can also be used in place of a circuit

If the circuit breaker continues to click with all circuit components

Unplug connectors or components protected by the fuse until the test

See Figures 36–33 and 36–34.

A Gauss gauge is used to

See Figures 36–36 and 36–37. Continued 53

1. Heat. Wiring near heat sources, such as the exhaust system,

2. The number used to identify connectors, grounds, and splices

3. All switches and relays shown on a schematic are shown in

5. A short-to-ground usually causes the fuse to blow and usually

6. Most electrical faults are a result of heat or movement.

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