For 1990-2009 cars

Step | Action | Value(s) | Yes | No
--- | --- | --- | --- | ---
1 | Did you perform the Charging System Check ? | -- | Go to Step 2 | Go to Charging System Check
2 | Check the battery hydrometer. Is the green dot visible in the hydrometer? | -- | Go to Step 7 | Go to Step 3
3 | Diagnose the battery hydrometer. Refer to Battery Hydrometer Displays Dark or Yellow Dot . Is the charging system diagnosis complete? | -- | Go to Step 4 | --
4 | Perform the battery load test. Refer to Battery Not Operating Properly . Did the battery pass the load test? | -- | Go to Step 6 | Go to Step 5
5 | Replace the battery. Refer to Battery Replacement . Is the repair complete? | -- | Go to Step 15 | --
6 | Check the generator. Refer to Generator Not Operating Properly . Does the generator operate properly? | -- | Go to Step 7 | Go to Step 14
7 |

1. Disconnect the generator connector.
2. Turn the ignition switch to ON.
3. Using a DMM set to DC volts, measure the voltage from the generator connector terminal L to ground.

Is the measured voltage within the specified range?

4-14V

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 11

8 | Check CKT 225 (RED) and CKT 23 (GRY) for an intermittent short to ground or open condition. Are the circuits OK? | -- | Go to Step 15 | Go to Step 9
9 | Repair CKT 225 (RED) or CKT 23 (GRY). Is the repair complete? | -- | Go to Step 15 | --
10 |

1. Reconnect the generator connector.
2. Turn all the accessories off.
3. Run the engine at a fast idle.
4. Measure the voltage across the battery terminals.

Is the measured voltage within the specified range?

13-16V

Go to Step 15

Go to Step 11

11 | Check for an open or short to ground in CKT 225 (RED). Is the circuit OK? | -- | Go to Step 13 | Go to Step 12
12 | Repair CKT 225 (RED). Is the repair complete? | -- | Go to Step 15 | --
13 |

1. Check the powertrain control module (PCM) connector C1 for poor terminal contact.
2. If OK, replace the PCM. Refer to Powertrain Control Module Replacement/Programming in Engine Controls -- 3.8L.

Is the repair complete?

--

Go to Step 15

--

14 | Replace the generator. Refer to Generator Replacement . Is the repair complete? | -- | Go to Step 15 | --
15 |

1. Make sure any components removed during diagnosis are installed in place and that all connectors are connected.
2. Repeat the system check. Refer to Charging System Check .

Is the system check complete?

--

System OK

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