Charge System Fault...wtf?

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Jul 8, 2006 | 08:16 AM

dajael

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Posts: n/a

Charge System Fault...wtf?

Recently I've been seeing "Charge System Fault" on the D.I.C. when I start the car, about once every 6 to 10 starts. It always dissapears after a few seconds. The volt meter reads normal and I never have any issue with the engine turning over (Optima red top battery 1 year old).

Have not checked my manual yet but any information on this would be helpful.

Thanks in advance!!!!

Jul 8, 2006 | 08:25 AM

Dark-Knight

Race Director

Joined: Feb 2003

Posts: 11,133

Likes: 1

From: ~The DARKSIDE Group~

The conncetors on top of your alternator may be loose or dirty. They pop right off so they are easy to check.

Nice lookin' ride you got there!

Jul 8, 2006 | 08:36 AM

dajael

Guest

Posts: n/a

Oops...should have done a search first, I found this posted...

When there is a charging system fault, it means there is something wrong.. your service guy may be a nice guy but he dont know squat about a C5.....
The alternator has a self diagnosis circuit in it, when you see a charging system fault it means, you have a short to ground, or a short to voltage.... a charging system fault is beating on your electrical system...and will cause problems down the road... your battery is taking the biggest hit.

Seems to be logical...Lock'er down Grumpy

Oct 5, 2006 | 08:04 PM

Dr.Jeff

Heel & Toe

Joined: Jan 2006

Posts: 20

Likes: 0

Hi: I had all sorts of electrical problems.Replaced the alternator,had the battery checked,etc.Bottomline,the main cable to the starter motoor was quite loose.Had it tighted,now everything is fine.Hope that this simple solution works for you. Dr. Jeff

Oct 5, 2006 | 08:18 PM

Arcane1

Supporting Tuner

Joined: Mar 2006

Posts: 1,311

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From: Houston TX

Cruise-In VIII Veteran

St. Jude Donor '06-'07

I have had this problem too. Great info.

I will have to go out and check mine now.

Oct 5, 2006 | 08:38 PM

flynbya2

Le Mans Master

Joined: Jul 2004

Posts: 7,727

Likes: 7

From: Twilight zone

St. Jude Donor '05-'06

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dr.Jeff

This is quite interesting as I had this same problem a week ago.

My car kept dropping voltage,.......to the point it would not run!!!!

I have since dropped ot off at a reputable tuner,he called me just yesterday and told me the starter cable was loose............

And this was after checking tons of stuff............

I do not have the car back yet,but I find it interesting that it was your problem too

I LOVE this place!!!

Oct 5, 2006 | 10:43 PM

RunninDoe

Cruising

Joined: May 2005

Posts: 14

Likes: 0

From: Georgia

Mine also does that. I check what the battery is charging at and it is like at 12.3. The normal charge shows at about 13 to 14.

I took it to the dealership and they said that it was charging normal and they couldn't find anything wrong.

So you all think it is wiring from the starter?

Oct 5, 2006 | 11:58 PM

debmwb

Burning Brakes

Joined: Nov 2004

Posts: 1,028

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From: Fort Worth Texas

If the Charge System Fault shows on the display but doesn't throw a code then there really is nothing wrong. All Vette's (and even my wife's Yukon) will display this fault now and again when the alternator is slow to catch up with the demand. Mine will do it when it starts to get cold out...I actually had one last week, but it cleared and life goes on!