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Symptom Chart

Diagnostics in this article assume a certain skill level and knowledge of Ford-specific diagnostic practices. REFER to Diagnostic Methods in Service Information for more information.

Preliminary Inspection

Before diagnosing or repairing the charging system inspect the following items:
- Fusible links
- Abnormal ignition-off current drain(s)
- Battery
- High current BJB for loose or corroded connections
- Radial arm adapter (if equipped)
- Wiring, terminals or connectors

Symptom Chart - Charging System

Condition	Possible Sources	Action
System voltage high	Fuse Wiring, terminals or connectors Engine, generator and battery ground Battery Generator PCM	GO to Pinpoint Test A .
System voltage low or battery is discharged	Fuse Fusible link Wiring, terminals or connectors Engine, generator and battery grounds Abnormal ignition-off current drain(s) Radial arm adapter (if equipped) Battery Generator Generator clutch pulley (if equipped) PCM High current BJB	GO to Pinpoint Test B .
The generator is noisy	FEAD belt Loose bolts/brackets Generator/pulleys	GO to Pinpoint Test F .
Radio interference	Generator Wiring, terminals or connectors In-vehicle entertainment system	GO to Pinpoint Test G .
Charging system warning indicator is never/always on	Wiring, terminals or connectors IPC Generator PCM	RETRIEVE CMDTCs from all modules. If any charging system DTCs are found, REFER to DTC Charts. If no charging system DTCs are found, REFER to Instrumentation, Message Center, and Warning Chimes .