Question: When I started my car this morning, I noticed a light on the dashboard that I’d never seen before— it said, “Check Charging System.” I have no idea what that’s actually talking about, though. What does a charging system warning light mean?
Answer:
If your car’s check charging system warning light is illuminated, it means that there is a problem with your vehicle’s electrical system. Typically this light comes on when there is an issue with your alternator, accumulator or the battery. You will need to figure out the trigger to this problem sooner rather than later to prevent a dead battery.
What is a check charging system light?
The check charging system light is a warning light that appears on your dashboard. It’s usually accompanied by an icon that looks like a car battery. It might also include an abbreviation for the specific part that has failed, like “alt” for the alternator or “batt” for the battery.
When the check charging system light comes on, it means your powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an issue with the charging system. This is not an issue that resolves itself. If it’s not fixed, it could result in a total loss of power to your vehicle.
What is the charging system?The lights, radio and other accessories in your car require battery power to run. When your car is working properly, the alternator recharges the battery while you drive. If any part of the charging system fails, the battery can’t recharge, and your car could lose power.
What causes a check charging system light to come on?
The most common problem associated with the check charging system light is an undercharged alternator, which could be caused by several of the following factors:
- Loose or corroded wires: These may prevent the battery from getting enough energy to be fully recharged.
- Faulty drive belt or serpentine belt: This can prevent power from getting to the alternator.
- Damaged components: Damage inside the alternator may cause it to short out or fail completely.
Your check charging system warning light might also come on due to a problem with your battery. You will be able to tell it is time to replace your battery, if it can no longer hold a charge. The battery’s connectors could also be loose or corroded, which could prevent a charge from reaching the battery at all.
What should I do if my check charging system light is on?
If your check charging system light comes on, start by examining your battery and alternator. If the battery connections are noticeably corroded, you may be able to solve the issue by cleaning the terminals. If the drive belt is loose, tightening it may be enough to restore your charging system to good, working order.
If you can’t immediately see the cause of the issue or you’re not comfortable poking around under the hood, take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible. If you keep driving with the light warning, you could end up stranded with a dead battery.
The technician will perform tests to measure the voltage and current coming from the alternator, how much tension is in the drive belt, how much power the charging system provides to the battery, and more. Additionally, regular maintenance checks can help prevent this problem in the future.
Expert insurance writer and editor Amy Bobinger specializes in car repair, car maintenance, and car insurance. Amy is passionate about creating content that helps consumers navigate challenges related to car ownership and achieve financial success in areas relating to cars. Amy has over 10 years of writing and editing experience. After several years as a freelance writer, Amy spent four years as an editing fellow at WikiHow, where she co-authored over 600 articles on topics including car maintenance and home ownership. Since joining Jerry’s editorial team in 2022, Amy has edited over 2,500 articles on car insurance, state driving laws, and car repair and maintenance.
Ashley Eneriz is an editor and finance writer with over 15 years of experience in a wide range of financial topics, including car loans and insurance. In editing for Jerry, Ashley aims to make all car material reader-friendly for both the new driver and car enthusiast alike. Prior to joining Jerry, Ashley was the financial deputy editor for ConsumerAffairs. Her work is featured on Forbes, Yahoo, MSN, The Hartford and more.
