Ford C-Max: 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 Ford C-Max.  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 C-Max’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.
• Most often, it is caused by an alternator problem.

P0562 Symptoms:  Ford C-Max

If P0562 is the only code your C-Max 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 C-Max wouldn’t even turn back on if you tried.  It will be impossible to start the starter once again because your battery has drained out too much.

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 C-Max’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 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.  It is most likely that the alternator has failed.  

P0562 Causes + Diagnosis:  Ford C-Max

Below are the top causes of P0562.

1. Alternator

The alternator supplies voltage to the battery and to all of your C-Max’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.  Your alternator can be tested at most auto parts shops for no cost.  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.

Ford C-Max Alternator Diagnosis

2. Voltage Regulator

To prevent overloading, the voltage regulator makes sure that only a set voltage is passed to the charging system.  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 C-Max’s charging system.  The following wiring should be checked for corrosion, fraying, or poor 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.  It is important to ensure the connection remains strong and corrosion-free.
• 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.  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.  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 occur if something is shorted and begins pulling too much voltage.

Ford C/Max Battery Drain Diagnosis

Conclusion:  P0562 Ford C-Max

It can be difficult to track down P0562.  It’s usually the alternator that is at fault.  You can add anything to the comment section below.  We wish you all the best with your Cmax!