Chrysler 300: 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 300.  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 300’s voltage drops below 10 volts for over a minute straight.
• The ideal voltage is around 14 volts when the engine is running.
• There is usually no obvious sign.
• The most common cause is a defective alternator.

P0562 Symptoms:  Chrysler 300

If P0562 is the only code your 300 has, there typically aren’t any noticeable symptoms.The check engine/battery lights are the only symptoms.  If your battery voltage falls too low, you may experience symptoms.

If you do experience symptoms, it’s due to battery drain.  it is very likely that your 300 wouldn’t even turn back on if you tried.  It will be impossible to start the starter from another battery.

These are some of the more common symptoms for P0562:

• Verify Engine LiabilityGht– This is the most common symptom, and often the only symptom.
• Warning/Low Battery Light–  You’ll more than likely get the battery light with this code.
• Poor Fuel Economy–  This can occur when your 300’s engine and computer are not getting enough voltage.  This could mean that the computer is unable to adjust ignition timings or fuel mixtures in real-time.  The spark may also be weak.
• It's a mistake– Without enough voltage to fire the spark plugs properly, the motor will sputter and cough.  If the misfire gets severe enough, the check engine light might even start to 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 300

Below are the top causes of P0562.

1. Alternator

The alternator supplies voltage to the battery and to all of your 300’s electrical system while it is running.  It can also cause P0562 if it is damaged.  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. Quite affordable.  While you're at it, make sure to replace the serpentine belt.

Diagnostics of the Chrysler 300 Alternator

2. Voltage Regulator

In order to prevent the charger from overloading, it ensures that only a specific voltage flows to it.  This regulator prevents too much voltage passing, and can throw P0562.

3. Wiring of batteries

There’s a lot of wiring associated with your 300’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 an alternator for a battery– Take a look at the wiring from the alternator to the battery.  Check to make sure it is not frayed or damaged.  Particular attention should be paid to any parts which may come into contact with another part of your 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.  The wiring harness's connection to the motherboard should be checked for fraying.  This is the most likely issue with wiring, and should only be pursued if all else fails.

4. Bad Battery

While a bad battery can throw P0562, it’s not nearly as likely as an alternator or wiring issue.  It is important to have the battery tested before you replace it.

5. Massive Battery Depletion

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.

A major power draw can occur if there is a problem.  It can happen when something is shorted and pulls too much current.

Diagnose Battery Drainage in Chrysler 300

Conclusion:  P0562 Chrysler 300

Finding P0562 is not easy.  It’s usually the alternator that is at fault.  Please leave comments below if you have any additional information.  We wish you the best with your 300.