P0562: System Voltage Low

What is P0562?

Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0562 is defined as “System Voltage Low.” This means that your car’s powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a low voltage condition.

When your engine is off, the battery supplies power to your car for its electrical needs. Once the engine cranks, the alternator takes over that job. The alternator also replenishes the battery charge to prevent low voltage problems later on, especially at vehicle startup. 

When your car is running, its charging system (which your alternator is a part of) is responsible for maintaining a consistent voltage level. The vehicle voltage level for an idling engine with the headlights off typically ranges between 14.1 to 14.4 volts. 

However, if the voltage drops below 12 volts for 60 seconds or more, the PCM or engine control module (ECM) will register the “P0562 System Voltage Low” code. 

When this happens, your dashboard check engine light (CEL) or malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) will also light up.

8 Looming Symptoms of P0562 Error Code

Some telltale signs of P0562 code include:

1. CEL or MIL turns on
2. Battery light illuminates
3. Battery drains quickly due to low system voltage
4. Transmission shifts inconsistently
5. Engine misfires or lacks power
6. The engine dies at idle or fails to start
7. Charging system amperage reads low
8. Fuel efficiency drops

Possible Causes of P0562 Diagnostic Trouble Code

Several reasons could cause a low voltage condition, such as:

• Defective alternator or starter (most common cause)
• Corroded or faulty wiring around the alternator
• Loose connections between the alternator and ECM
• Blown alternator fuse
• Defective voltage regulator
• Bad battery or corroded terminals
• Parasitic battery drain
• High resistance (or poor current flow) in the cable between the alternator and the battery
• Faulty electrical system ground
• Malfunctioning powertrain control module or engine control module (rare)

How Serious Is a P0562 Code, and Can You Continue to Drive?

P0562 is a pretty serious code, so you should avoid driving with it. 

If the charging system isn’t functioning correctly, your battery won’t have enough charge to crank the engine at some point. When the vehicle voltage level drops too low, your car might even stall while idling and not restart. Imagine that happening in heavy traffic or at the stop light of a busy intersection.  

That’s why it’s essential that you address the low voltage issue ASAP to ensure your safety and that of others.

How to Diagnose P0562 System Voltage Low Code

A professional mechanic will refer to your owner’s manual for prescribed diagnostic tests and use an OBD-II scanner to verify the P0562 code. Let’s look at the steps your mechanic will follow for a thorough troubleshooting:

1. Use an OBD-II scan tool to check whether there are additional codes, like P0560 and P0561. This could help pinpoint the root cause of the P0562 code or identify other failing electrical components that might need attention.

2. Turn on the vehicle and switch on the headlamps, high-beam lights, and blower to increase the charging system‘s load. Then, they’ll check the battery voltage using a multimeter. A good voltage reading will be between 13.2 and 14.7 volts. A low voltage reading of less than 12 volts for more than 60 seconds indicates an issue with the charging system. 

3. Check the battery terminals to ensure they’re free of corrosion. 

4. Look for tears or cracks on the drive belt (serpentine belt) and ensure it’s tight enough to run the alternator. A loose belt can prevent the alternator from charging the battery sufficiently, resulting in a low voltage reading and an error code. 

5. Inspect the PCM’s wiring, connectors, and terminals. They’ll check for loose connections or signs of corrosion, which can compromise circuit integrity. 

6. Measure the ECM voltage with a DVOM (digital volt-ohm meter) by connecting the red lead to the ignition feed circuit and the black lead to a suitable ground. With the ignition on, the voltage should be around 12 volts. 

Is it necessary to hire a professional for the P0562 diagnosis?
Yes! An expert can identify additional codes you could possibly miss during the DIY diagnostics.  

People often assume P0562 results from a defective alternator or starter. If these aren’t causing the low system voltage issue, replacing either component won’t clear the fault code. 

For an error-free inspection, always ensure you get complete diagnostics from a dealership or a mechanic. This way, you won’t end up replacing incorrect and expensive electrical components.

Repairs and Costs for Fixing P0562 Error Code

Based on the diagnosis, your mechanic will perform the following repairs and replacements:

1. Replace the faulty alternator
2. Change the alternator fuse
3. Swap out the defective voltage regulator
4. Replace the damaged battery cable
5. Install a new battery or clean corroded terminals
6. Repair or replace faulty wiring around the alternator
7. Update or switch the defective engine control unit (ECU) 

Once done, the mechanic will use an OBD-II scanner to clear the code and check whether the dashboard warning lights are off.

To know how much these repairs will cost, here are the rough estimates (including the parts and labor costs):

• Alternator fuse replacement: $70 to $190
• Wiring repair or replacement: $90 to $280
• Battery cable replacement: $320 to $410
• Voltage regulator replacement: $150 to $480
• Alternator replacement: $200 to $1,200
• PCM or ECU replacement: $800 to $1,500
• Battery replacement: $100 to $20,000+

NOTE: These estimates will change based on your location and different car models like Dodge and Chrysler. 

5 Surefire Ways to Avoid P0562 Low Voltage Issue

Follow these tips to prevent P0562 code-related issues in the future:

1. Park your car under a shade to protect the alternator and battery from excess sunlight and heat.

2. Avoid using headlights and other electrical accessories excessively to prevent premature wear of the charging system.

3. Install high-quality parts, like a new alternator, battery, and wires.

4. Call a mechanic to check your battery and alternator once every six months, especially before the onset of the summer and winter seasons.

5. Get the serpentine belt and tensioner replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles to ensure it smoothly drives engine accessories like the alternator.