Ask The Editors: Trailblazer Electrical Trouble
Sometimes even new components fail – let’s dig into how to check.
It sounds like you know your way around a multimeter so the next step in this situation would be to test the solenoid itself – do keep in mind that even brand new components do fail on occasion.
That said, to do so is fairly intuitive – Disconnect the solenoid from the system, grab your meter, set it to resistance (ohms) and place a probe at each post. Your coil resistance should generally measure between 2 to 5 ohms. If you read 0 ohms indicates a direct short and have isolated the issue. If, on the other hand, you read “infinity” or Open/ OL, you have no continuity within the coil.
To check for good ground, leave your multimeter on ohms, touch one probe either post and the other to the solenoid’s metal casing or the negative terminal on the battery (ground). There should be no continuity (OL or infinite).
If all of these tests check out, a solenoid should make an audible click when power is provided. Grab the machine’s battery and a pair of small jumper cables and set them all on your workbench. Apply power by connecting the battery directly to the posts with the alligator clips – and listen carefully. If you hear a tap or click, you know the solenoid is in good working order.
If that checks out and you fear the issue lies within those wires you describe, here is a look at the wiring schematic for the Trailblazer 250 (we don’t know which year yours is). The color coding should get you in the right direction.
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