P0562: System Voltage Low
The engine computer is seeing system voltage below its normal range while the engine runs, often a charging system problem.
What P0562 means
The charging system keeps the electrical system at around 14 volts while the engine runs. RepairPal explains that a healthy system usually reads about 14.1 to 14.4 volts at idle with the lights off, and that P0562 sets when the computer sees voltage below about 10 volts for more than 60 seconds while running, with exact limits varying by maker. Low voltage means the alternator is not keeping up or the power is not reaching the computer. A failing alternator, a weak battery, corroded cables, a slipping belt and a bad ground are the usual causes. Many modules misbehave on low voltage, so you may also see harsh shifting, misfire-like symptoms, warning lights and other codes. KBB warns that the engine can stall and electrical systems can quit, which is dangerous in traffic. Shops test battery health, measure charging voltage and do a voltage drop test on the main cables and grounds. Fixing the charging problem usually clears a lot of related codes at once.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Battery or charging light on
- Dim or flickering lights
- Harsh or erratic shifting
- Engine stalling or misfire-like symptoms
- Car may not restart
Most common causes
- Failing alternator
- Worn out or weak battery
- Loose, corroded or damaged battery cables
- Slipping or worn serpentine belt
- Bad ground connection between engine and body
- Wiring fault in the charging circuit
What to check yourself first
Clean and tighten the battery terminals. With a meter, the battery should read about 12.6 volts with the engine off and roughly 13.5 to 14.5 volts with it running. Many auto parts stores will test your battery and alternator for free.
Typical fixes and what they cost
| Fix | Typical cost | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Replace alternator | $809-$1,088 | The most common fix when charging voltage is low with good connections. |
| Replace battery | $456-$493 | If the battery fails a load test. |
| Electrical diagnosis to find a wiring or connector fault | $122-$179 | For corroded cables, bad grounds or charging wiring faults. |
Typical US price ranges for parts and labor, not quotes. Your shop should confirm the cause with a diagnostic before replacing parts.
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Related codes
- P0563 System Voltage High
- P0606 Control Module Processor
- U0100 Lost Communication With ECM/PCM "A"
- P0700 Transmission Control System (MIL Request)
- P0230 Fuel Pump Primary Circuit