What Does P0562 Mean?
The ECM has detected that the system battery voltage is below the minimum acceptable threshold during engine operation, typically below 11.0-11.5V. This low-voltage condition indicates the charging system is not maintaining adequate voltage to power the vehicle's electrical systems and charge the battery. The ECM monitors this to protect itself and other modules from brownout conditions.
Common Causes
35%
Failing alternator with worn brushes, defective voltage regulator, or burned-out diode pack producing insufficient charging voltage
25%
Slipping or broken serpentine belt preventing the alternator from spinning at adequate speed to generate charging voltage
20%
High-resistance battery cable connections or corroded terminal clamps causing excessive voltage drop between alternator and battery
20%
Dead or deeply discharged battery pulling system voltage below threshold faster than the alternator can compensate
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Measure battery voltage with the engine running at idle. Should be 13.5-14.8V. If below 12.8V with the engine running, the alternator is not charging adequately.
2
Step 2: Check the serpentine belt for proper routing, tension, and condition. A glazed, cracked, or loose belt will slip under load and reduce alternator output. Replace belt and tensioner if worn.
3
Step 3: Inspect battery cable connections for corrosion and tightness. Perform a voltage drop test from alternator B+ terminal to battery positive post (should be less than 0.3V). Check negative cable and ground straps similarly.
4
Step 4: Test alternator output directly at the alternator B+ terminal. If voltage is adequate at the alternator but low at the battery, the positive charging cable or fusible link has high resistance.
5
Step 5: If the belt is good and voltage at the alternator B+ terminal is low, the alternator has failed internally. Test alternator current output against its rated capacity (typically 80-150A). Replace if output is below 75% of rated capacity.
Estimated Repair Cost
$20 - $500
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The ECM has detected that the system battery voltage is below the minimum acceptable threshold during engine operation, typically below 11.0-11.5V. This low-voltage condition indicates the charging system is not maintaining adequate voltage to power the vehicle's electrical systems and charge the ba...
The most common cause of P0562 (Measurement Circuit OK Battery Voltage Low Fault) is: Failing alternator with worn brushes, defective voltage regulator, or burned-out diode pack producing insufficient charging voltage
Typical repair costs for P0562 range from $20 to $500, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Low system voltage may cause dim headlights reducing nighttime visibility, slow or weak power window and power steering operation, and potential engine stalling if voltage drops low enough for control modules to shut down. The vehicle may not restart if the battery fully discharges.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P0562 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Charging / Electrical System
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
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