PriceProtect™
DriveShield™
GarageGuard™
Services
Insurance
Car Insurance
Compare Car Insurance with Jerry
Jerry’s Expert Advice
Car Insurance Estimates
Home & Renters Insurance
Renters Insurance
Repairs
Car Repair Estimates
Repair Estimates for Popular Services
Advice
Read Car Content
Browse Jerry Car Advice
Check Out Expert Car QnA
Learn About How We Create Content
Jerry Data & Research
What does it mean when my car says check charging system?
When I started my car this morning, I noticed a light was illuminated on the dashboard that I’d never seen before, which said, “check charging system.” I have no idea what that’s actually talking about, though. What does my car mean when it says check charging system?
Andrew Biro · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
If your car’s “check charging system” warning light is illuminated, it means that there is a problem with your vehicle’s starting/charging system, which is usually indicative of an issue with your alternator, accumulator, or the battery itself.
When the “check charging system” light comes on, it means that your vehicle is already experiencing one of the aforementioned issues or that it will experience one very soon, which may result in a total loss of power to your vehicle.
The most common problem associated with the “check charging system” light is an undercharged alternator, which could be caused by several factors, such as loose mounting bolts or a faulty diode.
Another common reason for this light to come on is if the battery terminals have begun to corrode, something that can happen if electrical components are kept on for long periods.
Ultimately, the “check charging system” light means you should take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible to have the charging system checked out.
Having to deal with a malfunctioning charging system can be frustrating, but shopping for affordable car insurance doesn’t have to be when you use
licensed broker
and car insurance
super app, Jerry
. After providing you with a comprehensive cross-analysis of the best policies across providers, Jerry will handle the phone calls, paperwork, and renewals for your top pick so that you don’t have to. They can even help cancel your old policy! So why do all that extra work when Jerry can do it better?
View full answer
- Gregory R.
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance
You Might Also Be Interested
Read Advice From Car Experts At Jerry
What Others Are Asking
Browse More Content
Insurance for Your Car
Insurance in Your State
Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance
No long forms
No spam or unwanted phone calls
Quotes from top insurance companies