Chrysler 200: P0562 – System Voltage Low

Common OBD-II trouble codes include P0562.  It’s a general code, which means that it means the same thing for any vehicle, including the Chrysler 200.  P0562 It means that the system voltage drops below 10 V for more than a minute.  With the engine running, the system voltage should be 14.1-14.4 volts, and it’s typically caused by a bad alternator.  It’s very common to get the battery light with P0562.

Quick facts P0562

• P0562 is triggered whenever your 200’s voltage drops below 10 volts for over a minute straight.
• With the engine running, ideal voltage should not exceed 14 volts
• There is usually no obvious sign.
• The most common cause is a defective alternator.

P0562 Symptoms:  Chrysler 200

If P0562 is the only code your 200 has, there typically aren’t any noticeable symptoms.Other than the check engine/battery lamp.  If the voltage of your battery drops to low, symptoms can and will occur.

If you do experience symptoms, it’s due to battery drain.  it is very likely that your 200 wouldn’t even turn back on if you tried.  You won't be able to turn the starter on again because your battery has been drained.

Below are the top P0562 symptoms:

• Make sure to check the engine licenseGht– This is the most common symptom, and often the only symptom.
• Warning/Low Battery–  You’ll more than likely get the battery light with this code.
• Poor Fuel Economy–  This can occur when your 200’s engine and computer are not getting enough voltage.  This could mean that the computer is unable to adjust ignition timings or fuel mixture in real-time.  Oder, it may be too weak.
• Failure– Without enough voltage to fire the spark plugs properly, the motor will sputter and cough.  If there is enough misfire, the check engine lamp may flash.
• Probleme shifting– Today’s modern automatic transmissions are computer controlled.  Without enough voltage getting to them, they won’t be able to respond to the engine RPM and vehicle speed in a timely manner.
• Won’t Start– A very common situation with P0562 is running the vehicle and everything is operating fine, and the check engine light comes on (battery light too, usually).  You get the vehicle home and when you go to drive it again it won’t start.  You know it's a problem with the alternator.  

P0562 Causes + Diagnosis:  Chrysler 200

Below are the top causes of P0562.

1. Alternator

The alternator supplies voltage to the battery and to all of your 200’s electrical system while it is running.  It can also cause P0562 if it is not working properly.  If it goes all the way bad that’s make diagnosing the code relatively easy.  The vehicle won’t start if it runs too long with a bad alternator.  How long it would take to drain the battery all the way is going to depend on the battery’s age and driving conditions.

It’s when the alternator begins to intermittently fail it can be tricky to diagnose.  Many auto parts stores can test your alternator free of charge.  They will also be able to replace your alternator if you need it. It is quite affordable.  You should also change your serpentine belt.

Diagnoses for the Chrysler 200 Alternator

2. Voltage Regulator

In order to prevent the charger from overloading, it ensures that the required voltage level is maintained.  This regulator prevents too much voltage from flowing and can throw P0562.

3. Wiring of batteries

There’s a lot of wiring associated with your 200’s charging system.  The following wiring should be checked for corrosion, fraying, or poor connections.

• Battery terminals– The battery terminals, if left alone long enough, will corrode on any vehicle.  When this happens it’s difficult for the charging system to function properly.
• Wiring the Alternator and Battery– Take a look at the wiring from the alternator to the battery.  Check to make sure it is not frayed or damaged.  Be especially careful with parts that come in contact with other parts of the engine.
• Ground Wire– The ground wire that bolts to the negative battery terminal will bolt to the chassis or engine block.  You must ensure that your connection is secure and free from corrosion.
• The PCM connection to the Alternator– Check to see if the wiring going from the alternator straight to the PCM looks good.  This wiring has a great distance to travel so it can get damaged.  You should look for fraying at the junction of the wiring harness and the PCM.  It is not the most common wiring problem on our list. You should only investigate it if you are unable to find any other solutions.

4. Bad Battery

While a bad battery can throw P0562, it’s not nearly as likely as an alternator or wiring issue.  Before replacing it, you should test it.

5. Massive Battery Loss

If your vehicle has aftermarket equipment such as a very high watt stereo system, winch, or something else, it could be placing such a heavy load on the charging system that you’re getting P0562.  You must wait at least one minute before you can throw the code.

If something goes wrong, there can be an enormous power loss.  If something goes wrong and draws too much power, this can occur.

Diagnose Battery Drainage in Chrysler 200

Conclusion:  P0562 Chrysler 200

Finding P0562 is not easy.  It’s usually the alternator that is at fault.  Please leave comments below if you have any additional information.  You're welcome to fix your 200.