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Alternator Control Circuit Troubleshooting

  1. Connect the HDS to the data link connector (DLC), and check for DTCs. If a DTC is present, diagnose and repair the cause before continuing with this test.
  2. Disconnect the alternator 4P connector from the alternator.
  3. Start the engine, and turn on the headlights to high beam.
  4. Measure the voltage between alternator 4P connector terminal No. 2 and the positive terminal of the battery.
    Fig 1: Measuring Voltage Between Alternator 4P Connector Terminal 2 And Battery Positive Terminal
    G05493834Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.

    Is there 1 V or less? 

    YES  -Go to step 5.

    NO  -Go to step  8.

  5. Jump the SCS line with the HDS, then turn the ignition switch OFF.
    NOTE: This step must be done to protect the powertrain control module (PCM) from damage.
  6. Disconnect PCM connector A (31P).
  7. Check for continuity between PCM connector terminal A24 and body ground.
    Fig 2: Checking Continuity Between PCM Connector Terminal A24 And Body Ground
    G05493835Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.

    Is there continuity? 

    YES  -Repair short in the wire between the alternator and the PCM.

    NO  -Update the PCM if it does not have the latest software (see UPDATING THE PCM ), or substitute a known-good PCM (see SUBSTITUTING THE PCM ), then recheck. If the symptom/indication goes away with a known-good PCM, replace the original PCM (see PCM REPLACEMENT ).

  8. Jump the SCS line with the HDS, then turn the ignition switch OFF.
    NOTE: This step must be done to protect the PCM from damage.
  9. Disconnect PCM connector A (31P).
  10. Check for continuity between PCM connector terminal A24 and alternator 4P connector terminal No. 2.
    Fig 3: Checking Continuity Between PCM Connector Terminal A24 And Alternator 4P Connector Terminal 2
    G05493836Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.

    Is there continuity? 

    YES  -Replace the alternator (see ALTERNATOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION  ), or repair the alternator (see ALTERNATOR OVERHAUL  ).

    NO  -Repair open in the wire between the alternator and the PCM.