Description and Operation

Charging System Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections

Engine ON, observe the charge indicator on the instrument panel cluster (IPC) or message in the driver information center (DIC). The charge indicator on the IPC should be turned OFF and the DIC should not display charging system message.

1. Verify that a test lamp illuminates between the generator B+ and ground.

Note:  Some vehicles use a maxi fuse or a fuseable link for this circuit, this circuit must be tested before diagnosing any charging system issues.

⇒	If the test lamp does not illuminate, test the B+ circuit for a short to ground or an open/high resistance.

2. Ignition ON, verify that no generator or battery current sensor DTCs are set that would cause a charging system concern.

⇒	If DTCs are set, refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle.

3. Ignition OFF, measure the voltage across the battery terminals. The voltage should read 12.0 V or greater at room temperature.

⇒	If not within specified value, refer to Battery Inspection/Test.

4. Connect a carbon pile tester to the battery.
5. Start the engine and increase the engine speed to 2,500 RPM. Observe the voltage reading on the tester. The voltage should read between 12.6-15.0 V.

⇒	If not within specified range, replace the generator.

6. Adjust the carbon pile tester to the specified load test output value, refer to Generator Usage.

⇒	If not within specified value, replace the generator.

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

Generator Replacement