On-Board Diagnostic System: Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 Dodge Charger and 2010 Chrysler 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

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.

Refer to Diagnostic Trouble Codes in; Powertrain Diagnostic service information for more DTC information. This will include a complete list of DTC's including DTC's for the charging system.

To perform a complete test of the charging system, refer to the appropriate Powertrain Diagnostic Procedures service information and the scan tool. Perform the following inspections before attaching the scan tool.

Inspect the battery condition. Refer to the Battery service information. Refer to Electrical/Battery System - Diagnosis and Testing for procedures.
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.
Inspect all fuses in both the fuseblock and Power Distribution Center (PDC) or IPM (if equipped) for tightness in receptacles. They should be properly installed and tight. Repair or replace as required.
Inspect generator mounting bolts for tightness. Replace or tighten bolts if required. Refer to the GENERATOR Removal/Installation section of this group for torque specifications. See Electrical/Charging - Specifications .
Inspect generator drive belt condition and tension.
Inspect decoupler pulley (if equipped). Ensure decoupler pulley is driving the alternator rotor.
Inspect automatic belt tensioner (if equipped). Refer to the TENSIONER, BELT for more information.
Inspect generator electrical connections at generator field, battery output, and ground terminal (if equipped). Also check generator ground wire connection at engine (if equipped). They should all be clean and tight. Repair as required.