OBD-II diagnostic trouble code
P0562Caution
System Voltage Low
The engine computer is seeing lower voltage on the electrical system than it needs to run everything reliably. This isn't a code about one specific sensor — it's the computer flagging that the whole car's electrical supply is weaker than it should be.
Symptoms
- Dim headlights or interior lights, especially at idle
- Slow or difficult engine cranking
- Various warning lights coming on together, sometimes inconsistently
- Electronics (radio, windows, infotainment) behaving oddly or resetting
Likely causes
- A weak or failing battery that can no longer hold or deliver a proper charge
- A failing alternator not charging the battery sufficiently while driving
- Corroded or loose battery terminals/ground straps reducing the effective connection
- A worn or slipping alternator drive belt
How to diagnose it
- Test battery voltage at rest and while cranking with a multimeter — a healthy battery should read around 12.4-12.7V at rest
- Test alternator output voltage with the engine running (typically should be roughly 13.5-14.5V)
- Check all battery terminals and ground connections for corrosion or looseness
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Code names are compiled from open/standardized SAE and ISO references. Explanations, symptoms, causes and fixes are original. Covers generic (P0/C0/B0/U0) codes only — manufacturer-specific codes are planned for a future update.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with P0562?
You can usually keep driving with P0562, but don't put it off — the underlying cause can get worse or lead to further damage the longer it goes unaddressed. Get it diagnosed as soon as you reasonably can.
How much does it cost to fix P0562?
Typical repair costs for {code} range from roughly 20 to 700 EUR, depending on the specific cause and your car — see the fixes listed above for a breakdown.
What causes P0562?
A weak or failing battery that can no longer hold or deliver a proper charge A failing alternator not charging the battery sufficiently while driving Corroded or loose battery terminals/ground straps reducing the effective connection
Reviewed by Artyom SemenovAutomotive Editor · Fact-checked by Yauheni Kapliarchuk, Editor-in-Chief