C5 - Charging System Fault

[wdfjunior]

Recently, I have replaced the battery in my C5, on the way to work this morning I received a "charging system fault" on the DIC.

Can anyone tell me how I can troubleshoot this? Anyone have experience with this? The car runs fine, however, I noticed the battery gauge fluctuating.

Any help would be appreciated!!
Thanks!

 

[99WhiteC5Coupe]

wdfjunior,

I too had repeated "charge system fault" messages on my 1999 C5 coupe (purchased new - built 8/98). The dealer was stumped and called Chevrolet Technical Assistance.

The technician was instructed to check ground locations on and near the starter. He found several ground stud locations that were corroded and the nuts were loose. He removed the nuts and ground terminals, cleaned the studs, and replaced everyting. That eliminated the DIC messages.

The technician said that Technical Assistance immediately knew what the problem was and he speculated that it was a common problem with "early build" 1999's, perhaps that the factory did not tighten the nuts when the car was built.

One other thing - if your battery leaked acid (mine did later), check the area beneath the battery tray - Acid can corrode the ground locations.

Good luck.