Element 2WD L4-2.4L (2003)
1. Verify The Complaint
Turn on all the components in the problem circuit to check the accuracy of the customer complaint. Note the symptoms. Do not begin disassembly
or testing until you have narrowed down the problem area.
2. Analyze The Schematic
Look up the schematic for the problem circuit. Determine how the circuit is supposed to work by tracing the current paths from the power source
through the circuit components to ground (certain circuits contain a "How the Circuit Works" Diagram set). Also, trace circuits that share wiring
with the problem circuit. The names of circuits that share the same fuse, ground, or switch, and so on, are referred to in each circuit schematic. Try
to operate any shared circuits you didn't check in step 1. If the shared circuits work, the shared wiring is OK, and the cause must be in the wiring
used only by the problem circuit. If several circuits fail at the same time, the fuse or ground is a likely cause.
Based on the symptoms and your understanding of the circuit's operation, identify one or more possible causes.
3. Isolate The Problem By Testing The Circuit
Make circuit tests to check the diagnosis you made in step 2. Keep in mind that a logical, simple procedure is the key to efficient troubleshooting.
Test for the most likely cause of failure first. Try to make tests at points that are easily accessible.
4. Fix The Problem
Once the specific problem is identified, make the repair. Be sure to use proper tools and safe procedures.
5. Make Sure The Circuit Works
Turn on all components in the repaired circuit in all modes to make sure you've fixed the entire problem. If the problem was a blown fuse, be sure
to test all of the circuits on that fuse. Make sure no new problems turn up and the original problem does not recur.
Test Equipment
Test Equipment
CAUTION: Most circuits include solid-state devices. Test the voltages in these circuits only with a 10-megaohm or higher impedance digital
multimeter. Never use a test light or analog meter on circuits that contain solid-state devices. Damage to the devices may result.
Test Light and DVOM
On circuits without solid-state devices, use a test light to check for voltage. A test light is made up of a 12 volt bulb with a pair of leads attached. After
grounding one lead, touch the other lead to various points along the circuit where voltage should be present. The bulb will go on if there is voltage at the
point being tested. If you need to know how much voltage is present, use a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM).
Self-Powered Test Light and DVOM
Use a self-powered test light to check for continuity. This tool is made up of a light bulb, battery, and two leads. To test it, touch the leads together: the
light should go on.
Use a self-powered test light only on an unpowered circuit. First, disconnect the battery, or remove the fuse that feeds the circuit you are working on.
Select two points in the circuit between which you want to check continuity. Connect one lead of the self-powered test light to each point. If there is
continuity, the test light's circuit will be completed, and the light will go on.
If, in addition, you need to know exactly how much resistance there is between two points, use a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM).
In the "OHMS" range, the DVOM will measure resistance between two points along a circuit. Low resistance means good continuity.
Diodes and solid-state devices in a circuit can make a DVOM give a false reading. To check a reading, reverse the leads, and take a second reading. If
the readings differ, the component is affecting the measurement.
