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 is illuminated with the engine running.
- 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.

INSPECTION

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors 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.

To perform a complete test of the charging system, perform the following inspections.

1. Inspect the battery condition.

2. Inspect condition of battery cable terminals, battery posts, connections at engine block, and starter solenoid. They should be clean and tight. Repair as required.

3. Inspect all fuses in the Underhood Accessory Fuse Block 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.

5. Inspect accessory drive belt condition and tension. Tighten or replace belt as required.

6. Inspect the automatic belt tensioner.

7. Inspect generator electrical connections at generator field, battery output, and ground terminal. Also check generator ground wire connection at engine. They should all be clean and tight. Repair as required or replace generator if necessary.