Dodge Journey: P0562 – System Voltage Low

The OBD-II common trouble code P0562 can be found in the OBD-II manual.  It’s a general code, which means that it means the same thing for any vehicle, including the Dodge Journey.  P0562 This indicates the system voltage has dropped below 10 volts continuously for at least one 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 Journey’s voltage drops below 10 volts for over a minute straight.
• With the engine running, ideal voltage should not exceed 14 volts
• The symptoms are rarely apparent.
• Most often, it is caused by an alternator problem.

P0562 Symptoms:  Dodge Journey

If P0562 is the only code your Journey has, there typically aren’t any noticeable symptoms.Other than the check engine/battery lamp.  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 Journey wouldn’t even turn back on if you tried.  It will be impossible to start the starter from another battery.

Below are the top P0562 symptoms:

• 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 Journey’s engine and computer are not getting enough voltage.  The computer may be unable to control the ignition timing, fuel mix or air/fuel ratio 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 there is enough misfire, the check engine lamp may flash.
• Problems 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:  Dodge Journey

These are some of the leading causes for P0562.

1. Alternator

The alternator supplies voltage to the battery and to all of your Journey’s electrical system while it is running.  Bad alternators can lead to P0562.  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 shops will 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.

Dodge Journey Alternator Diagnosis

2. Voltage Regulator

In order to prevent the charger from overloading, it ensures that only a specific voltage flows to the battery.  The regulator can prevent too high voltage passing through and even throw out P0562.

3. Wiring a battery

There’s a lot of wiring associated with your Journey’s charging system.  Check for corrosion, fraying and weak connections.

• Batterie 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.
• Connect PCM to an 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.  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.  Before replacing it, you should test 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.  It should take at most a minute for the code to be thrown.

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 Dodge Journey

Conclusion:  P0562 Dodge Journey

It can be difficult to track down P0562.  It’s usually the alternator that is at fault.  You can add anything to this article.  You're on the right track!