Charging Indicator

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Dodge Avenger and 2013 Chrysler 200. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The charging indicator gives an indication to the vehicle operator when the electrical system voltage is too low or too high. This indicator is controlled by a transistor on the instrument cluster circuit board based upon cluster programming and electronic messages received by the cluster from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) over the CAN data bus. Each time the ignition switch is turned to the ON position the charging indicator is illuminated by the instrument cluster for about three seconds as a bulb test.

The charging indicator LED is completely controlled by the instrument cluster logic circuit, and that logic will only allow this indicator to operate when the instrument cluster receives a battery current input on the fused ignition switch output (run-start) circuit. Therefore, the LED will always be OFF when the ignition switch is in any position except ON or START. The LED only illuminates when it is provided a path to ground by the instrument cluster transistor. The instrument cluster will turn ON the charging indicator for the following reasons:

Voltage Low Message - Each time the cluster receives an electronic system voltage message from the PCM indicating the voltage is low (less than about 11.5 volts is a charge fail condition), the charging indicator will be illuminated. The indicator remains illuminated until the cluster receives a message from the PCM indicating the voltage is normal (greater than about 12.0 volts, but less than 16.0 volts), or until the ignition switch is turned to the OFF position, whichever occurs first.
Voltage High Message - Each time the cluster receives an electronic system voltage message from the PCM indicating the voltage is high (greater than about 16.0 volts), the charging indicator will be illuminated. The indicator remains illuminated until the cluster receives a message from the PCM indicating the voltage is normal (less than about 15.5 volts, but greater than 11.5 volts), or until the ignition switch is turned to the OFF position, whichever occurs first.

The PCM continually monitors the electrical system voltage to control the generator output. The PCM then sends the proper messages to the CCN. If the instrument cluster turns ON the charging indicator due to a charge fail or voltage high condition, it may indicate that the charging system requires service.