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P2502 OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

OBD Code P2502 - Charging System Voltage

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The trouble code P2502 can be described as Charging System Voltage. The error code P2502 would start triggering when the PCM would detect some fault in the charging system circuit. One thing which you must keep in mind that its symptoms as well as causes would surely vary as it depends upon a number of things.

Learn More About OBD Error Code P2502

This trouble code is generic, which would mean that it can apply to all the vehicles which are equipped with the OBD-II or the vehicles which are made since 1996 up to the present. The specifications on the definition, the troubleshooting steps as well as repairs can always vary from one vehicle make to another. This can happen because of a lot of reasons and the mechanic should diagnose the specific cause for this code. The P2502 trouble code would indicate that a charging system circuit which is not as per the predetermined limit has been detected by the ECM. Now when this would occur, the fault code would be stored and there would be an illumination in the malfunction indicator light.

 

What causes this problem with the Charging System Voltage?

 

  • Defaults in the generator (Alternator)
  • Generator harness might be opened or shorted
  • Generator circuit might have bad electrical connection
  • Unusable Powertrain Control Module

Replace/Repair These Parts To Fix Code P2502

  1. Generator Assembly - When it comes to your automobile, the generator assembly is a pivotal piece of machinery. The generator assembly would make sure to recycle the power of the car battery which is being used while driving the car.
  2. Engine Control Module - Is your car engine light still staying ON after resetting or your car engine is turning off for no reason? Then these are some common symptoms indicating that your car engine control module is defective.
  3. Car Battery - Faulty car battery can have the problem of overheating and fast discharging. Thus, it can affect the motor performance as well as damaged major components. Replace it immediately.
  4. Powertrain Control Module - The PCM works as the central computer system in an automobile’s mechanism. This auto part is the in charge of all the constituents as well as the functions performed by them. Having such enormous importance in the operation of all the parts means that any defect in it will affect almost every aspect of a car.
  5. Electronic Control Unit - The ECU is a major component of your car's onboard computer. It's used to regulate many systems and subsystems in your car's engine, drive train and other major components. Visit us to buy best quality ECU online.
  6. Diagnostic Tools - Take help of a professional mechanic to diagnose OBD code error. Use high grade diagnostic tools to resolve this issue. Buy new tools and equipment form us!

Symptoms Of The OBD Error Code P2502

Our main motive is to achieve customer satisfaction and that’s why we will help you to diagnose P2502 code by mentioning some major symptoms below:

Common Symptoms

  • Illumination in the service engine soon light
  • Auto engine may not start
  • Car engine may stall
  • Issues related to engine stalling when on idle
  • Decreasing in fuel efficiency
  • Improper shifting in a vehicle with an automatic transmission
  • Red battery light might come on the dashboard

How To Correct P2502 Charging System Voltage Issue

If you wish to correct this fault code, then you have to follow certain steps. Correcting a problem needs your careful attention. Here are some ways with the help of which you will be able to correct the OBD Code P2502:

  • Make sure to remove the corrosion from the battery connections
  • Recondition the non-functioning voltage regulator
  • It is essential to restore the flawed battery
  • You must fix the defective alternator
  • Repair or replace the quirky wiring or connectors that are associated with this system
  • Rehabilitate the defaults in the battery cables or terminal ends
  • The malfunctioning powertrain control module should be repaired or replaced as per the need

There is no need to get strained if your OBD Code is still flashing up as we are here at your service. Have a look at our superior variety of car battery, generator, alternator, pcm, ecm, starter and many more. Now all your problems would vanish within no time.

Easy Diagnosis Of Engine Error OBD Code P2502

Here are some steps which you should follow in order to diagnose this fault code:

The powertrain control module monitors the starting/charging system whenever the key is placed in the "ON" position, as is the generator lamp circuit for the instrument panel. When the engine is running, the PCM is programmed to anticipate between 13.8 and 14.4 volts from the charging system. If a voltage reading that either exceeds or underachievers, a code will be stored and there would be an appearance of the service engine soon light. There are some automobile models (especially Chrysler) which also use the PCM to regulate charging system voltage. System voltage malfunctions related to the PCM are much more common in automobiles equipped with this type of system than in other systems. Before you start with your diagnosis, just make sure that the battery is fully charged. If the battery fails to take or hold a charge, then it should be replaced. Several tools will be instrumental in successfully diagnosing this code. Use an OBD-II scanner in order to verify that the code is present, and check for other codes for any other type of error or problem that might need attention. The current data along with freeze frame data are recorded, and the codes are then cleared to see if they reoccur.

Start with a visual inspection of all wiring and connectors Make sure to repair or replace damaged, disconnected, shorted, or corroded wiring, connectors, and components as per the need. Always retest the system after repairs are completed to ensure success. If all system wiring, connectors, and components (Including fuses) appear to be in normal working order, then you should connect the scanner (or code reader) to the diagnostic connector and record all stored codes and freeze frame data. This information can prove to be very helpful in diagnosing intermittent conditions that may have contributed to this code being stored. You should continue by clearing the code and operating the vehicle to see if it returns. This will help to decide whether or not the malfunction is intermittent. Now once the codes have been fully cleared, then you should test drive the vehicle to see if the code returns. If the code fails to immediately return, then you might have an intermittent condition. Intermittent conditions can prove to be quite challenging to diagnose and in extreme cases they should be allowed to worsen before a correct diagnosis can be made. Continue with a visual inspection of the battery and battery cables. If you find a lot of corrosion on the battery terminals, then it would indicate a poor battery connection.

If this is the case, disconnect the battery cables from the battery (always disconnect the ground cable first and see manufacturer's recommendations for disconnecting/reconnecting the battery) and remove the corrosion from the battery posts and terminals. The battery should be reconnected and retest the charging system. Carefully connect the starting/charging system tester to the battery and perform a load test. If the battery fails the load test, then you must replace it. Now if the battery passes the load test, leave the tester connected and then start your car engine. Observe the voltage readings on the tester and compare your findings with manufacturer's specifications. Replace starting/charging system components as per the requirement. Typical alternator output should read approximately 14 volts with the engine started and no accessories or lighting turned on. Leave the tester connected and utilize the amp probe to test the starter current draw. Compare your findings to manufacturer's specs and repair or restore starting system cables or other components as per the requirement. The generator lamp circuit is used to activate a charging system indicator in the instrument panel if system voltage is unusual. Voltage readings that are too low may indicate worn brushes in the alternator. High voltage readings may be indicative of a defective voltage regulator.

Before performing any continuity and resistance testing on the generator lamp circuit, be sure to disconnect the wiring from the instrument panel to prevent damage to system controllers and circuit boards. You can always the vehicle service manual for reference voltage readings and other precautions. If the starting/charging system is in good working condition, then there would a need to inspect the test secondary wiring. Disconnect the alternator connector and then test all circuits using the digital volt/ohmmeter. If alternator wiring values are in line with acceptable specifications, disconnect the PCM connector and perform a continuity test on all system circuits. Compare actual findings with manufacturer's specifications and repair open or shorted electrical wiring as per the requirement. If the malfunction has still not been rectified, then it would mean that the powertrain control module is quirky.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P2502 Code

  • Many technicians replace the battery since it is named in the trouble code definition. Although a bad battery is a possible cause, this error code is referring to the lack of charging to the battery, which sounds more like another part has gone bad that relates to the battery. It is very essential to consider all angles while diagnosing the check engine lights.

Other Diagnostic Codes Related To OBD Code P2502

P2503 - Charging System Voltage Low

P2504 - Charging System Voltage High