Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Charge Indicator Operation
The instrument panel cluster (IPC) illuminates the charge indicator in the message center when the one or more of the following occurs:
NOTE: The generator battery control module is not set up to set a DTC if the battery voltage is too high or too low. Check with the powertrain control module (PCM) to see if they set a DTC when the battery voltage is too high or too low.
- The IPC determines that the system voltage is less than 11 volts or greater than 16 volts. The IPC receives a class 2 message from the body control module (BCM) indicating there is a system voltage range concern.
NOTE: Verify with the BCM DRE that this is true.
- The IPC performs the displays test at the start of each ignition cycle. The indicator illuminates for approximately 3 seconds.
- The ignition is ON, with the engine OFF.
- The generator battery control module determines there is a fault and sends a class 2 message to the IPC to illuminate the charge indicator.
NO RELATED
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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.