Battery light on

Hi:

Was the system tested while the light was on? If not, I need you to do a simple alternator test. All you need is a volt meter or digital multi meter. Check it when the light is on to determine if the alternator is working properly.

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

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

Do that and let me know what you find.

Joe

Hi:

That's perfect. I'm glad you did the test both with the light on and the light off. Since you found the voltage to be the same, we know although the light is on, the system is still charging the battery.

Now, this leads us to the next test that requires specialized scan tooling. I will provide the directions if you have it. If not, and I hate to say it, it will need done by a shop. There is a chance that the old alternator was fine and the problem is actually in the instrument panel itself. The only way to confirm is to perform the following test.

If the instrument panel passes the test, then we have an intermittent wiring issue. We will cross that bridge when we get to it because it will become more complex.

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Circuit/System Verification

1. Ignition ON, engine running.

2. Verify the scan tool Battery Voltage parameter is between 12.5-15.5 V.

If not 12.5-15.5 V
Refer to Charging System Test See: Charging System > Component Tests and General Diagnostics > Charging System Test.

If 12.5-15.5 V

3. Command the All Indicators test ON and OFF with the scan tool. Verify the charge indicator turns ON and OFF as commanded.

If the charge indicator always stays on or always stays off
Replace the P16 Instrument Cluster.

If the charge indicator turns on and off as commanded

4. All OK.

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I wish I had an easier answer for you, but this is the next step. We need to determine if the problem is in the cluster itself or a wiring issue to the cluster.

Let me know if you have questions.

Joe