The charging system light will come on for a few seconds when you turn on the ignition as a check to indicate it is working.

If the light stays on, or comes on while you are driving and you hear a chime, there could be a problem with the electrical charging system. This could indicate that there is a loose generator drive belt or another electrical problem. Have it checked right away. Driving while this light is on could drain the battery and result in the engine and headlights suddenly shutting off.

If you must drive a short distance with this light on, turn off accessories, such as the radio, air conditioner and heater fan.

This light comes on briefly when the ignition key is turned to START, but the engine is not running, as a check to show it is working.

If it does not, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer/retailer.

The light should go out once the engine starts. If it stays on, or comes on while driving, there could be a problem with the charging system. A charging system message in the Driver Information Center (DIC) can also appear. See DIC Warnings and Messages for more information. This light could indicate that there are problems with a generator drive belt, or that there is an electrical problem. Have it checked right away. If the vehicle must be driven a short distance with the light on, turn off accessories, such as the radio and air conditioner.