Diagnosis And Testing - On-Board Diagnostic System: Inspection

The PCM monitors critical input and output circuits of the charging system, making sure they are operational. A DTC is assigned to each input and output circuit monitored by the 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 article for more DTC information. This will include a complete list of DTCs including DTCs for the charging system.

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

1. Inspect the battery condition. Refer to the Battery article for procedures. Refer to DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY SYSTEM .
2. 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.
3. Inspect all fuses in the fuseblock for tightness in receptacles. They should be properly installed and tight. Repair or replace as required.
4. Inspect generator mounting bolts for tightness. Replace or tighten bolts if required. Refer to TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS  for torque specifications.
5. Inspect accessory drive belt condition and tension. Tighten or replace belt as required.
6. Inspect decoupler pulley (if equipped). Ensure decoupler pulley is driving the alternator rotor.
7. Inspect automatic belt tensioner (if equipped). Refer to the Cooling System for more information.
8. 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.