Test C: Charge Indicator Inoperative

2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer 4.2 S, 4WDSECTION Test C: Charge Indicator Inoperative
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Vibe. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Reviewing the description and operation information will help determine the correct symptom diagnostic procedure when a malfunction exists and will also help determine if the condition described by the customer is normal operation. See DESCRIPTION & OPERATION  . If review was performed, go to next step.
  2. Turn ignition switch to RUN position. If battery charge indicator does not illuminate during 5 second bulb check, go to next step. If battery charge indicator illuminates during 5 second bulb check, problem may be intermittent. Check wiring and connections, see PRELIMINARY INSPECTION  under TROUBLE SHOOTING.
  3. Leave the engine running. Turn on the headlamps. Measure the voltage at the battery terminals. Voltage should 12.5-15.5 volts. If voltage is as specified, go to next step. If voltage is not as specified, go to TEST A: CHARGING SYSTEM TEST  .
  4. Disconnect generator 3-pin harness connector. Connect a 3-amp fused jumper to charge indicator, generator harness connector terminal "L" (Yellow wire) and ground. Turn ignition switch to RUN position. If charge indicator illuminates, go to step  6 . If charge indicator does not illuminate, go to next step.
  5. Test charge indicator circuit, generator harness connector terminal No. 1 (Yellow wire), for high resistance or an open. See WIRING DIAGRAMS  . If no problem exists, go to step  7 . If problem exists, repair circuit as necessary and go to step  10 .
  6. Inspect generator harness connector for poor connections. If no problem exists, go to step  8 . If problem exists, repair as necessary. After repair, go to step  10 .
  7. Inspect instrument panel cluster harness connector for poor connections. If no problem exists, go to step  9 . If problem exists, repair as necessary. After repair, go to step  10 .
  8. Replace generator. See GENERATOR  under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. After repair, go to step  10 .
  9. Replace instrument panel cluster. See appropriate INSTRUMENT PANELS article in ACCESSORIES & EQUIPMENT. After repairs are made, go to next step.
  10. Operate system to verify repair. If condition is corrected, system is okay. If condition was not found and corrected, go to step  2 .
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.