Testing for a Short to Voltage

Special Tools

EL-39200-B Digital Multimeter (DMM)

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools.

Danger: This procedure should not be performed on high voltage circuits. Performing this procedure on high voltage circuits may result in serious injury or death.

Caution: Refer to Test Probe Caution.

The following procedure tests for a short to voltage in a circuit.

  1. Fully isolate the circuit by disconnecting all connection points on the circuit. Depending on how the circuit is configured, this may include:
    • Fuses or fuse blocks
    • Relays
    • Control module electrical connectors
    • Component electrical connectors
  2. Set the digital multimeter (DMM) to the V (DC) position.
  3. Connect the positive lead of the DMM to one end of the circuit to be tested.
  4. Connect the negative lead of the DMM to a good ground.
  5. Switch the vehicle power mode to Vehicle in Service Mode and operate all accessories.
  6. If the voltage measured is greater than 1 V, there is a short to voltage in the circuit.