Help-DIC Message

[white02]

I have a 2002 Coupe. Every now and then, not every time, when I start in the morning I get "Charge System Fault" in the DIC for about 3 seconds. I have went into diagnostic mode and all I get is "No Codes" so this fault has not thrown off any codes. I assume it has something to do with the alternator but I thought that would generate a code. If C5 Specialist is out there, any thoughts would be most appreciated. Thanks.

 

[AZMike]

I got that quite a bit until I ditched the weak factory battery and put an optima in (I swear by Optima batteries here in 110+ AZ heat). I haven't had the problem since, and some other weird electrical problems have disappeared as well. If you’re a member of Costco, they have really good prices on the Optimas.

The factory battery only has about 550 CCA - that's pretty weak given all the stress on the electrical systems in these cars. The Optima is well over 800 and has a much bigger reserve.

Another thing you can try is to trickle charge the battery. That will make the warning go away, but only for about 2 weeks before it comes back.

 

[99WhiteC5Coupe]

white02,

Had the same problem with my 1999 C5 coupe - no codes and the dealer was stumped.

The mechanic called Chevrolet Technical Assistance and was instructed to check ground locations on and near the starter, below the battery tray. He found several ground studs with the nuts loose on them. He cleaned and tightened the locations and that eliminated the DIC messages.

The mechanic said Technical Assistance immediately knew what the problem was and it must a common problem.

Mine would display the message (and chime) when starting the car.

Good luck.

 

[c4c5specialist]

HI there,
Weak batteries do cause this condition sometimes.
However, sometimes grounds or other conditions cause it also.
Basing my reply on percentages, more often than not, your standing voltage of the battery will drop below 11 volts when cranking, so this message is displayed.
As to the other replys, DEFINATELY check all connections at the battery, and your grounding points.
http://www.photohost.org/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=1533&password=&sort=7&thecat=658
You can reference this link for your grounding points.
As for the rest, please take a battery test with a GM tester.
This will indicate exact battery quality and condition.
Allthebest, c4c5