Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview

The following procedures may be used to diagnose the charging system if:
- the generator 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. See Ignition-Off Draw Test in Starting and Charging/Battery for more information.

Inspection
To perform a complete test of the charging system, refer to the Powertrain Management/Computer and Control Systems/appropriate Powertrain Diagnostic Procedures service and the DRB scan tool. Perform the following inspections before attaching the scan tool.
1. Inspect the battery condition. Refer to Starting and Charging/Battery for procedures.
2. Inspect 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 fuse block and Power Distribution Center (PDC) for tightness in receptacles. They should be properly installed and tight. Repair or replace as required.
4. Inspect generator mounting bolts for tightness. Replace or tighten bolts if required. Refer to the Starting and Charging/Charging System/Alternator/Generator Removal/Installation for torque specifications.
5. Inspect generator drive belt condition and tension. Tighten or replace belt as required. Refer to Belt Tension Specifications.
6. Inspect automatic belt tensioner (if equipped).
7. Inspect connections at generator field, battery output, and ground terminals. Also check ground connection at engine. They should all be clean and tight. Repair as required.