Honda Element: 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 Honda Element.  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.

P0562 Quick Facts

• P0562 is triggered whenever your Element’s voltage drops below 10 volts for over a minute straight.
• The ideal voltage is around 14 volts when the engine is running.
• These symptoms are rarely apparent.
• The most common cause is a defective alternator.

P0562 Symptoms:  Honda Element

If P0562 is the only code your Element has, there typically aren’t any noticeable symptoms.Other than the check engine/battery lamp.  There are symptoms that can occur if your battery voltage falls too low.

If you do experience symptoms, it’s due to battery drain.  it is very likely that your Element wouldn’t even turn back on if you tried.  You won't be able to turn on the starter after your battery is fully charged.

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–  You’ll more than likely get the battery light with this code.
• Poor Fuel Economy–  This can occur when your Element’s engine and computer are not getting enough voltage.  The Element 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.
• 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:  Honda Element

Below are the top causes of P0562.

1. Alternator

The alternator supplies voltage to the battery and to all of your Element’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.  You can get a replacement alternator at most auto parts stores if yours fails. It is quite affordable.  You should also change your serpentine belt.

Honda Element Alternator Diagnosis

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 out P0562.

3. Wiring a battery

There’s a lot of wiring associated with your Element’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.  Examine the wiring from the alternator to battery for damage or fraying.  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 free of 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.  It is important to have the battery tested before you replace 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.  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.

Diagnostics for the Honda Element Battery Drain

Conclusion:  P0562 Honda Element

It can be difficult to track down P0562.  It’s usually the alternator that is at fault.  You can add anything to this article.  Good luck fixing your Element!