What does it mean when the car charging fault light comes on?
2 Answers
Car charging fault light comes on for the following reasons: Power supply line fault: When the light remains on after the car is started or while driving, it indicates that the generator output voltage is lower than the battery voltage, the generator is not working, or there is a power supply line fault. In this case, the vehicle is running on battery power, and the generator and charging circuit should be inspected at a repair shop as soon as possible. Battery dead: Like all batteries, the car's 12-volt battery will eventually die if not charged. Therefore, cars have built-in charging systems. Most vehicles are equipped with alternators and voltage regulators to charge the battery and power the car while the engine is running. Typically, the alternator can output between 500-1000 watts of power when needed.
A while ago, the charging fault light in my car also came on, which scared me into pulling over immediately. This issue is most likely caused by a problem with the alternator—it could be that the belt is loose and slipping, preventing it from generating electricity, or the voltage regulator is broken and can't charge the battery. A faulty battery itself can also trigger this light, especially if it's an old battery that's been in use for over five years. Poor wiring connections are another common issue; I once found that the battery terminals had oxidized and turned green. In such cases, it's best not to keep driving. Last time, my friend insisted on driving, and halfway through, the car completely lost power, even locking the steering wheel. Now, whenever this light comes on, I immediately turn off the air conditioning and stereo and head straight to the repair shop. After all, the cost of calling a tow truck is enough to replace an alternator belt.
