Diagnostics and testing of the starting system (Defender 2007+)

Inspection and verification

1. Check the customer complaint.

2. Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical or electrical damage.

Visual inspection

Mechanical elements	Electrical equipment
• Starter • Engine (rotates freely)	• Battery • Fuses • Fuse Circuit 5, Under Seat Fuse Box • Main fuse • Starter relay • Wiring harness(es) • Damaged, loose or corroded electrical connectors • Ignition switch • Generator • Engine Control Module (ECM)

3. If an obvious cause for the problem you identified or the customer described is found, fix it before proceeding with further actions (if possible).

4. Before referring to the symptom chart or DTC index, read all diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) using an approved diagnostic system or scan tool.

• Clear all DTCs after troubleshooting.

Table of signs of malfunction

Sign	Possible reasons	Operation
The engine does not turn over (the starter does not turn)	Battery Starter relay Output signal circuit: high resistance Output signal electrical circuit: short circuit to battery + The immobilizer received an invalid key code Wiring harness/electrical connectors Starter Ignition switch Generator Engine seizure	Check the battery condition and charge. Check for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) indicating a malfunction of the immobilizer. Check the electrical circuits of the starter relay, ignition switch and generator. Refer to the electrical manuals. Check if the engine cranks freely.
The engine does not turn over (the starter is spinning)	Installing the starter Starter Flywheel/faceplate ring gear	Check the starter installation (tightening of fastening elements, correct positioning of the starter relative to the engine, etc.). Check the flywheel/faceplate ring gear for damage, foreign objects, etc.
The engine turns over too slowly	Battery Wiring harness/electrical connectors Starter Brand of oil	Check the battery condition and charge. Check the starter electrical circuits. Refer to electrical equipment manuals. Check the brand and condition of the engine oil.
The engine is turning over too fast	Low compression in the engine	Check the engine condition and compression in the cylinders.
Increased starter noise	Starter Flywheel/faceplate ring gear Starter installation/starter housing	Check the starter installation (tightening of fastening elements, correct positioning of the starter relative to the engine, etc.). Check the condition of the starter housing. Check the flywheel/faceplate ring gear for damage, foreign objects, etc.

For a complete list of diagnostic trouble codes that may be stored in the vehicle, see Section 100-00. For additional information, refer to: How to Use This Manual (100-00 General information, Description and operating principle).