Charging System: Testing and Inspection

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CHARGING SYSTEM

The following procedures may be used to diagnose the charging system if:

- the check gauges lamp (if equipped) is illuminated with the engine running
- the voltmeter (if equipped) does not register properly
- an undercharged or overcharged battery condition occurs.

Remember that an undercharged battery is often caused by:

- accessories being left on with the engine not running
- a faulty or improperly adjusted switch that allows a lamp to stay on Ignition-Off Draw Test for Ignition-Off Draw Test.

INSPECTION

The PCM (Powertrain Control Module) monitors the critical input and output circuits of the charging system, making sure they are operational. A Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is assigned to each input and output circuit monitored by the On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) system. Some charging system circuits are checked continuously, and some are checked only under certain conditions.

Refer to Diagnostic Trouble Codes in; Powertrain Control Module for more DTC information.

To perform a complete test of the charging system, use a diagnostic scan tool. Perform the following inspections before attaching the scan tool.

1. Inspect the battery condition Battery System Inspection.
2. Inspect the condition of battery cable terminals, battery posts, connections at engine block, starter solenoid and relay. They should be clean and tight. Repair as required.
3. Inspect all fuses in both the fuseblock and the Power Distribution Center (PDC) for tightness in receptacles. They should be properly installed and tight. Repair or replace as required.
4. Inspect the generator mounting bolts for tightness. Replace or tighten the bolts if required [1][2]Charging System for torque specifications.
5. Inspect the generator drive belt condition and tension. Tighten or replace the belt as required. Refer to Belt Tension Specifications in 7, Cooling System.
6. Inspect the automatic belt tensioner (if equipped).
7. Inspect the generator electrical connections at generator field, battery output, and ground terminal (if equipped). Also check the generator ground wire connection at the engine (if equipped). They should all be clean and tight. Repair as required.