Q: How to diagnose starter problems for Pontiac Fiero?
A: Ensure that the battery is fully charged before diagnosing starter problems. In case the switch is operated and the starter does not turn, make sure the shift lever is in Neutral or Park (automatic transmission) or that you depress the clutch pedal (manual transmission). Check that your battery is charged and all cables are secure. This could mean a slipping overrunning clutch in the starter, which can call for removal and disassembly of the starter. It could be with your battery, main solenoid contacts or even the starter itself if solenoid clicks but there is no operation on the starter. It may be defective if you can't hear solenoid plunger when switch is actuated, this could be due to defective solenoid or solenoid circuit. Attach a jumper lead between (+) terminal of battery and S terminal on solenoid to test solenoid condition. If starter works, then there's nothing wrong with it; instead; problem lies either in wiring, neutral start switch or ignition switch. If still no operation take out the starter/solenoid assembly for further testing and repair. Make sure your battery is charged and all terminal connections are tight if Starter cranks engine slowly at low speed. Slow starting may result from partial seizure of engine or presence of oil with wrong viscosity in it. Allow the engine to reach its normal operating temperature before testing the starter, then disconnect coil wire from distributor cap and ground it on engine block after which take voltmeter readings as follows: Connect positive lead of volt meter to S terminal on solenoid and negative one to ground; have someone turn ignition switch on while you keep an eye out for any change in voltage readings on voltmeter; do not forget that 9-volts or more reading means faulty Starter provided normal cranking speed persists while less than 9-volts reading suggests slow cranking speed caused by burned solenoid contacts.
Q: How to remove and install a starter motor for Pontiac Fiero?
A: Disconnect the negative Battery Cable. Raise the rear of the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. Block the front wheels. Remove the catalytic converter splash shield. From under the vehicle, disconnect the solenoid wire and battery cable from the terminals on the rear of the solenoid. Remove the support bracket, if equipped, and retaining bolts. Remove the starter. Note the location of the spacer shim. Place the starter in position. Install the spacer shim. Install the support bracket, if equipped, and tighten the starter mounting bolts. Attach the solenoid wire and battery cable to the terminals on the rear of the solenoid. Lower the vehicle. Connect the negative battery cable.