Jeep Patriot: 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 Jeep Patriot.  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 Patriot’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:  Jeep Patriot

If P0562 is the only code your Patriot 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 Patriot wouldn’t even turn back on if you tried.  You won't be able to turn the starter on again as your battery is too low.

These are some of the more common symptoms for P0562:

• Make sure to check the engine licenseGht– 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 Patriot’s engine and computer are not getting enough voltage.  This could mean that it is not able to adjust the ignition timing, fuel mixture or air/fuel mix in real-time.  The spark may also be weak.
• Failure– Without enough voltage to fire the spark plugs properly, the motor will sputter and cough.  In extreme cases, the engine may start flashing if there is a misfire.
• 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:  Jeep Patriot

These are some of the leading causes for P0562.

1. Alternator

The alternator supplies voltage to the battery and to all of your Patriot’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.  You can get a replacement alternator at most auto parts stores if yours fails. It is quite affordable.  While you're at it, make sure to replace the serpentine belt.

Jeep Patriot Alternator Diagnosis

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 passing, and can throw out P0562.

3. Wiring a battery

There’s a lot of wiring associated with your Patriot’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.  It is important to ensure the connection remains strong and corrosion-free.
• 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 Battery Drainage in Jeep Patriot

Conclusion:  P0562 Jeep Patriot

It can be difficult to track down P0562.  It’s usually the alternator that is at fault.  Please leave comments below if you have any additional information.  We wish you all the best with your Patriot fix!