P0562 Code: System Voltage Low

If your scan tool registers a code P0562 after connecting it to the OBD-II port, this means that your system is lacking voltage supply. But what could be causing this? Read on to learn more about what this code means, what its possible causes are, as well as the accompanying symptoms you can watch out for.

What Does the P0562 Code Mean?

Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0562 stands for “System Voltage Low.” It is triggered when the PCM detects voltage supply drops from the calibrated threshold for certain periods of time.

All electrical components in your car need a power source in order to work. When the engine is off, the battery is responsible for supplying the car with the electrical current it needs to power certain functions.

Once the engine is started, the alternator takes over. Its main job is to maintain the ideal supply level, which is typically within 13.5 to 15.0 volts. The voltage supply may vary depending on the operating state of the engine, whether the car is idling or running, as well as the number of electrical components switched on.

When the engine is off, there should be at least 12.4 volts in the system. If the car is running, there should be around 13.5 to 15.0 volts being supplied to the battery.

If the PCM detects an irregular drop in the voltage supply, code P0562 will be activated.

Electrical Supply Is Key

Every module on a vehicle has power and ground feeds, and the innards of these modules need a certain amount of voltage to do what they do. If system voltage drops below a certain programmed threshold, they either stop working or stop working right. For just one example, on a Ford, if the cranking of the starter pulls system voltage below about 7.5 volts, the engine may seem to be spinning normally but it won’t start because the PCM won’t fire the injectors.

Every module on a vehicle has power and ground feeds, and the innards of these modules need a certain amount of voltage to do what they do. If system voltage drops below a certain programmed threshold, they either stop working or stop working right.

– Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

Other modules may respond by simply not doing what they’re designed to do. That’s why system voltage is important enough to be monitored closely, not only by the PCM, but by all the electronics, and just about every module will have a dedicated code for insufficient system voltage.

What are the Possible Causes of the P0562 Code?

When looking for ways on how to fix the P0562 code, it would be better for you to know more about its possible causes first. Knowing the cause can make it easier for you to troubleshoot.

The potential causes of the P0562 code may vary according to the make and model of your vehicle. Here are the most common issues that can cause the activation of code P0562:

• Faulty alternator or voltage regulator
• Loose or corroded alternator wiring
• High resistance in the battery cables
• Blown fuses
• Worn-out car battery
• Parasitic battery drain
• PCM malfunction (rare)

What are the Common Symptoms of the P0562 Code?

The symptoms you could experience may also differ depending on your vehicle. Nonetheless, below are some of the most common signs you may encounter if your vehicle’s PCM has set the code P0562:

• Electrical components may not function properly
• Engine operation may stop from time to time (as the voltage continues to drop)
• Engine won’t start
• Charging battery light on your dash will light up
• Decreased engine performance

How to Diagnose the P0562 Code

Before you can attempt to fix the P0562 code on your car, you need to figure out exactly what triggered it in the first place. That might prove to be difficult considering how many possible reasons there are. This is why it is best to leave the diagnosis to an expert mechanic.

How to Fix the P0562 Code

Resolving the P0562 code can be challenging. Again, your best bet to get rid of the error code is to have a professional do the job for you.

However, if you feel like you have the necessary skills and tools to perform the repair yourself, keep in mind that there is no silver bullet for the P0562 code⁠—as with most other OBD-II codes you may encounter. Different causes will require different fixes, so make sure to diagnose the issue properly.

For example, in certain Dodge vehicles, a common fix for a P0562 code is to replace the battery⁠—provided that the underlying cause was a bad battery, of course.

When performing any DIY repair or replacement job on your car, remember to use online auto repair resources to ensure that you are guided accordingly. You can also get a single-vehicle ALLDATA subscription, which is a great investment for anyone looking to do all their future car repairs.

As always, remember to check your owner’s manual before working on your car.

Where to Get Replacement Parts to Clear Code P0562

Engine issues are the last thing any car owner wants to deal with. They’re head-scratching and potentially expensive problems that can be difficult to deal with. As such, if your vehicle has set a P0562 code, don’t put off resolving it. Whether you need to replace a faulty alternator or a worn-out car battery, CarParts.com has what you need.

To start shopping for replacement parts, input your ride’s details into our vehicle selector to check out compatible parts. Afterward, use the search filters to customize the results based on your needs.

All our parts come from trusted names in the industry. Each item in our catalog is handpicked by our team of experts to ensure quality and functionality. They also come with a low-price guarantee and lifetime replacement to give you the best value for your money.

Shop for high-quality replacement parts at CarParts.com to clear this trouble code in no time!

Products Mentioned in this Guide

Battery Alternator Fuse