GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Charging System Check

Step

Action

Normal Result(s)

Abnormal Result(s)

1

Move the ignition switch from the OFF position to the RUN position.

Voltmeter gauge reads between 12-14 volts.

Refer to Volt Gage Inaccurate or Inoperative

2

Move the ignition switch to the START position and then release.

The engine starts, the voltage gauge reads between 13-16 volts.

Refer to Volt Gage Inaccurate or Inoperative or Battery Charge Warning Not Operating Properly .

3

Run the engine at idle while observing the voltmeter gauge and the message center.

Voltmeter gauge holds steady between 13-16   volts and the battery indicator in the message center is OFF.

Refer to Volt Gage Inaccurate or Inoperative or Battery Charge Warning Not Operating Properly .

4

  1. Turn on the following electrical components:
  2. • Headlamps
    • Rear defogger
    • Heater blower motor to HI
  3. Increase the engine speed to 2500 RPM for 2 minutes and observe the voltmeter gauge.

Voltmeter gauge holds steady between 13-16 volts   and the battery indicator in the message center is OFF.

Refer to Volt Gage Inaccurate or Inoperative or Battery Charge Warning Not Operating Properly .