Not starting issue and Service Charging System message on dash

LAURA SILLS KNOWLTON

MEMBER
2017 GMC ACADIA
3.6L
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
90,000 MILES

Started having issues yesterday getting the car to start. Dash displayed Battery Saver On and all interior lights etc, seemed to be working fine. Got a jump from my in-laws and got home fine. Husband tried starting car this morning and it was completely dead with no dash lights etc. Jumped it, however as soon as the cables were removed the engine shut off on its own. Replaced with a new battery this morning, sat for a few hours in the driveway and car wouldn’t start. Went back an hour or so later and it started with the dash message Service Charging System.

Thinking the alternator needs replaced, but if anyone else has any ideas I’m all for it. Husband typically does the work on our cars, but I really struggled to find any info on this.

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Hi,

It does sound like the alternator isn't charging. Also, if it failed, it could be placing a constant draw on the battery.

Here is what I suggest: Take a look through this link and test the alternator's output.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-alternator

If you find the alternator is bad, here is a link that shows in general how one is replaced:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-an-alternator

The pics below are directions specific to your vehicle for removal and replacement.

I hope this helps. Let me know if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below

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Monday, April 5th, 2021 AT 8:03 PM

LAURA SILLS KNOWLTON

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Thanks so much for the reply. It should be very helpful should we need to go that route.

My husband found that the 200 amp fuse that was connected to the wire of the battery post to the alternator is bad. Hopefully a much easier and less expensive fix. He went to multiple dealers yesterday afternoon and none of them could figure out which part to order based on entering the VIN. They printed off a list with part numbers, but when I search the GM part numbers online they all use a generic picture so I have no clue which is correct. This can't be that hard, right! It's a 200amp/58V SBFW-L M6 bolt type fuse.

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Tuesday, April 6th, 2021 AT 6:45 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Hi,

That is the correct part number. That is a bolt in fuse. Please keep an eye on things. It takes a lot to blow a 200 amp fuse. Tell your husband to check all the main wiring to and from the alternator.

Let me know if there is anything I can do to help.

Take care,

Joe

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Tuesday, April 6th, 2021 AT 6:40 PM