Fix P0562: Mechanic’s solutions that WORKED

The code P0562: System Voltage Low points out a fault in the vehicle’s electrical system, and most likely is caused by issues such as a weak battery, failing alternator, or poor electrical connections. It’s a signal that the voltage in the system is below the expected level, indicating potential problems with the charging system or battery health that need immediate attention.

P0562 quick overview

Meaning	P0562: System Voltage Low
Is it serious?	Yes, it can be serious as it affects the vehicle’s electrical systems and can lead to poor performance or failure of various components.
Possible causes	– Weak or dead battery – Faulty alternator – Poor battery connections – Corroded or damaged battery terminals and cables – Failing voltage regulator – Electrical shorts or excessive resistance in charging system circuits
How to diagnose?	Check battery voltage: Ensure the battery is fully charged. Inspect battery terminals: Look for corrosion or damage. Test alternator output: Verify if the alternator is providing the correct voltage. Examine wiring: Look for damaged wires or poor connections, especially to the alternator. Load test battery: Confirm the battery can hold a charge under load. Scan for additional codes: Check if there are other codes that could be related to charging system issues. Review charging system: Check the complete charging system operation.

How to fix P0562 – learn from mechanics

I looked into P0562 service cases at iatn.com website where in the private forums the mechanics seek advice from other mechanics. I looked up a bunch of cases to help you decide how to fix your issue and see what would a real mechanic do to solve it.

Case #1: Dodge

Vehicle Information 2009 Dodge Avenger SE 2.4L

Issue + Repair History

• Previous rough start with ETC light on; no MIL with bulb check
• Now dies randomly, runs rough
• P0315, P0217, P0339, P0335B, P0108, P0562D, P0300B, P2004, P0562, U0402, P0700 codes logged
• Previously replaced spark plugs, induction service, battery tested

What Are People Suggesting to Fix Issue

• Perform a vacuum gauge test, compression, and leakage tests
• Test ignition coil spark output and fuel pressure
• Load test grounds and wiring
• Use a labscope for dynamic circuit testing
• Check if injectors and coils are controlled by PCM
• Scope cam and crank signals
• Replace crank sensor plug and perform relearn with OEM parts
• Ensure throttle body is functioning correctly
• Clean throttle body
• Consider possible water ingress in ECM/PCM or faulty ECM/PCM

What Was the Final Fix The final fix was not performed as the customer decided not to proceed with the repair. The vehicle was exhibiting a PCM issue, but the owner chose to purchase a new car instead.

Case #2: Ram

Vehicle Information 2012 Ram 1500 Sport 5.7L

Issue + Repair History

• Came in with codes P0750, P0562 and was in fail-safe mode
• P0750 indicates low and reverse solenoid circuit issue
• New battery installed, P0562 did not return
• Solenoid ohmed from PCM through solenoid and back, within specs
• Voltage to solenoid dropped on startup, suggesting PCM issue
• No other repair history mentioned

What Are People Suggesting to Fix Issue

• Check solenoid pack, as it is often the fault with P0750 code
• Perform amp draw and pattern test on the solenoids
• Swap L/R and 2C control wires at PCM and observe if code changes
• Plug in a known good solenoid body to see if code clears
• Inspect PCM connector pins for water intrusion or corrosion

What Was the Final Fix PCM replacement resolved the issue. After thorough checking of the solenoid and wiring, the logical conclusion was a PCM fault. The vehicle has been operating well for several weeks post-repair.

Case #3: Ford

Vehicle Information 1997 Ford F-350 7.3L

Issue + Repair History

• Erratic kick down of overdrive while driving
• Codes for cam sensor led to its replacement
• Post-repair, overdrive kicks out on long pulls, O/D light turns off
• No new codes after cam sensor replacement

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• P0562 (System Voltage Low)
• P0344 (Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Intermittent)
• P0340 (Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction)

What Are People Suggesting to Fix Issue

• Check actual system voltage vs PCM reading
• Dealership reprogramming for cam sensor recall
• Inspect wires near the OD cancel switch in steering column for damage
• Drive with a scanner to monitor live data for potential issues
• Check connections at the transmission and control modules

What Was the Final Fix

• Replacement of the shift lever with wiring and the overdrive on/off button due to bared wires near the shift lever pivot, resolving the overdrive kick out issue.

Case #4: Chrysler

Vehicle Information
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring 2.4L

Issue + Repair History

• Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) on
• Codes: P0700, P0562, P0760
• Symptoms: Limp mode, more prevalent when cold
• Repairs: Fixed leaking fluid, replaced pan, side cover, differential seal, battery, terminal ends, solenoid pack & relay

Suggestions to Fix Issue

• Check alternator wiring for damage from rubbing against axle
• Ignore P0700 as it’s just an indicator of transmission faults
• Tighten and ensure good contact on terminals at the solenoid and transmission computer
• Test battery feed and feedback voltage to solenoid pack and trans computer for bad connections
• Check relay/fuse panel for bad connections
• Perform a reset using DRB III if necessary after fluid level drops
• Ensure the ‘O’ ring on the transmission filter is correctly seated and not damaged
• Use Chrysler +4 fluid and perform a ‘quick learn’ procedure with scanner
• Perform a re-learn procedure for the transmission after battery disconnect
• Inspect contacts at the valve body on solenoid wires

Final Fix
Tightened all connections at transmission computer and solenoid pack.

Case #5: Audi

Vehicle Information
2009 Audi A3 2.0L

Issue + Repair History

• Surge/jerk when shifting from 2nd to 1st gear after 30 minutes of driving
• Jerking motion when starting to drive after stopping; RPM fluctuates
• Cam sensor replaced
• Jerking persisted after cam sensor replacement
• Taken to dealer for transmission issues

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

• P0343: Camshaft sensor
• P068A: ECM De-Energized Performance Too Early
• P0562: System Voltage Low
• P150A: Engine Off Timer Performance

Suggestions to Fix Issue

• Check the charging system for issues causing low voltage
• Investigate freeze frame data for low battery voltage, which may also cause the cam sensor code
• Perform gearbox service and software upgrade at Audi dealer
• Follow gearbox service intervals every 48,000 miles

Final Fix
Dealer replaced transmission under warranty.

Advice	Brief Description of Diagnostic Step
Check charging system	Ensure that the battery and alternator are functioning properly, as low voltage can trigger transmission issues.
Inspect electrical connections	Verify that all connections, especially at the solenoid pack and transmission computer, are secure and not corroded.
Service transmission regularly	Follow the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals to prevent issues.
Consider software updates	Check for and apply software updates from the manufacturer that could resolve electronic glitches.
Perform a relearn procedure	After battery disconnection or major part replacement, relearn procedures may be necessary to reset the transmission’s adaptive learning.
Examine alternator and wiring	Look for damage or wear on alternator wires that may be causing electrical issues.
Tighten all connections	Ensure that all relevant connections, particularly those related to the transmission and its components, are tight.
Replace transmission if necessary	In cases where all other fixes fail, consider that the transmission itself might need to be replaced.