Testing for Short to Ground |
With a Digital Multimeter (DMM) |
1. |
Remove the power feed (i.e. fuse, control module) from the suspect circuit. |
2. |
Disconnect the load. |
3. |
Set the rotary dial of the DMM to the Ω position. |
4. |
Connect one lead of the DMM to one end of the circuit to be tested. |
5. |
Connect the other lead of the DMM to a good ground. |
6. |
If the DMM does NOT display infinite resistance (OL), there is a short to ground in the circuit. |
With a Test Lamp |
1. |
Remove the power feed (i.e. fuse, control module) from the suspect circuit. |
2. |
Disconnect the load. |
3. |
Connect one lead of the test lamp to battery positive voltage. |
4. |
Connect the other lead of the test lamp to one end of the circuit to be tested. |
5. |
If the test lamp illuminates, there is a short to ground in the circuit. |
Fuse Powering Several Loads |
1. |
Review the system schematic and locate the fuse that is open. |
2. |
Open the first connector or switch leading from the fuse to each load. |
3. |
Connect a DMM across the fuse terminals (be sure that the fuse is powered). |
• |
When the DMM displays voltage the short is in the wiring leading to the first connector or switch. |
• |
If the DMM does not display voltage refer to the next step. |
4. |
Close each connector or switch until the DMM displays voltage in order to find which circuit is shorted. |