Remove the starter from the vehicle
Secure the starter in a vise or on a stable workbench
Wear safety glasses and gloves
Use a fully charged 12V battery
Identify the starter terminals
Connect the battery negative to the starter case
Connect the battery positive to the main starter terminal
Momentarily jump battery positive to the solenoid trigger terminal
Observe whether the pinion gear extends
Observe whether the motor spins strongly and smoothly
Check for abnormal noise, grinding, or excessive sparking
Disconnect power immediately after testing
Verify the pinion retracts when power is removed
Repeat the test if needed to confirm consistent operation
Replace the starter if it fails to extend, spin, or retract properly