P0562 - System Voltage Low
Typically, this is caused by a failed generator. At the mileage you listed, I'd expect the generator to have worn internal brushes, but there are other ways it can fail. Worn brushes almost always start out as a very intermittent problem that may not act up again for hours to weeks, but it will get progressively worse over time.
Start by charging the battery at a slow rate, if necessary, for a few hours, then have the charging system tested. You can start the testing yourself with an inexpensive digital voltmeter. If you need help with that, first check out this article:
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter
but be aware, they're using an "auto-ranging" voltmeter. That's an expensive feature you don't need. Harbor Freight Tools has a perfectly fine meter for around $7.00. You can find them at Walmart too, and any hardware store. I can help you set it up if needed.
Start by measuring the battery's voltage with the engine off. It will be close to 12.6 volts if it's good and fully charged. If it's closer to 12.2 volts, it's good, but fully discharged. Charge it at a slow rate for a few hours, then measure the battery voltage again with the engine running. Now it must be between 13.75 and 14.75 volts. If it stays at 12.6 volts or less, the generator is not working. If it does come up to the proper voltage, that only means it is okay to perform the rest of the tests, but that requires a professional load tester. Most independent repair shops have them. The tests include the "full-load output current test", and the test for "ripple" voltage. A few testers make an actual printout with those numbers listed, but most just show ripple voltage as "low" or "high" with a group of flashing lights. When there's no printout, the mechanic will write those numbers on the repair order, then you'll get a copy of them. I can interpret those numbers for you.
Thursday, May 1st, 2025 AT 2:23 PM
