P0560 System Voltage Malfunction
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OBD-II Trouble Code - P0560 Technical Description
P0560 - System voltage malfunction.
Engine DTC P0560 identifies a problem with abnormal voltage readings from either the battery or the starting or charging systems.
What does trouble code P0560 mean?
This Generic Transmission / Engine DTC usually applies to all vehicles from 1996 onwards, including but not limited to Hyundai, Toyota, Saab, Kia, Honda, Dodge, Ford, and Jaguar vehicles.
The PCM controls the charging system of these vehicles to a certain extent. The PCM can control the charging system by operating the supply or ground circuit of the voltage regulator inside the generator.
The powertrain control module (PCM) monitors the ignition circuit to determine if the charging system is working. If the voltage is too high or too low, a DTC will set. If there is no voltage, but should be, a fault code will be set. This is a purely electrical problem.
Troubleshooting steps may vary depending on manufacturer, charging system control type, and wire colors.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a P0560 engine code may include:
- Fault indicator light is on
- The red battery indicator is on
- Gearbox cannot shift
- The engine may not start, or if it does, it may stall and stall
- Lower fuel economy
Causes of the P0560 code
Possible reasons for setting this code:
- High resistance in cable between alternator and battery - possibly
- High resistance/open circuit between generator and control module - possible
- Faulty alternator - most often
- Failed PCM – Unlikely
Diagnostic and repair procedures
A good starting point is always to check the Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) for your particular vehicle. Your problem may be a known issue with a known manufacturer-released fix and could save you time and money while troubleshooting.
The most common cause of this code is low battery voltage / battery that has been disconnected / faulty charging system (faulty alternator). While we're on the subject, let's not forget to check out the most neglected part of the charging system - the alternator belt!
Check the charging system first. Start the car. Turn on the headlights and fan at high speed to load the electrical system. Use a digital volt ohmmeter (DVOM) to check the voltage at the battery. It should be between 13.2 and 14.7 volts. If the voltage is significantly below 12V or above 15.5V, diagnose the charging system, focusing on the alternator. If you are unsure, check the battery, starting and charging system at your local parts store / body shop. Most of them will perform this service for a small fee, if not free, and will usually provide you with a printout of the test results.
If the voltage was correct and you have a scan tool, clear the DTCs from memory and see if this code returns. If it is not, it is more than likely that this code is either intermittent or history / memory code and no further diagnostics are required.
If the P0560 code does return, look for the PCM on your specific vehicle. Once detected, visually inspect the connectors and wiring. Look for scratches, scuffs, exposed wires, burn marks, or molten plastic. Disconnect the connectors and carefully inspect the terminals (metal parts) inside the connectors. See if they look burnt or have a green tint indicating corrosion. If you need to clean the terminals, use an electrical contact cleaner and a plastic bristle brush. Allow to dry and apply electrical grease where the terminals touch.
Then clear the DTCs from memory with a scan tool and see if the code returns. If this is not the case, then there is most likely a connection problem.
If the P0560 code does return, we will need to check the voltages on the PCM. Disconnect the negative battery cable first. Next, we disconnect the harness going to the PCM. Connect the battery cable. Switch on the ignition. Using the DVOM, test the PCM ignition feed circuit (red lead to PCM ignition feed, black lead to good ground). If this circuit is less than battery voltage, repair the wiring from the PCM to the ignition switch.
If everything is ok, make sure you have a good PCM base. Connect a test lamp to the 12 V battery positive (red terminal) and touch the other end of the test lamp to the ground circuit that leads to the PCM ignition power circuit ground. If the test lamp does not light up, it indicates a faulty circuit. If it does light up, wiggle the wire harness going to the PCM to see if the test light is flashing, indicating an intermittent connection.
If all previous tests pass and you keep getting P0560, this most likely indicates a PCM failure. If you are unsure, seek help from a qualified automotive diagnostician. To install correctly, the PCM must be programmed or calibrated for the vehicle.
COMMON ERRORS WHEN DIAGNOSING CODE P0560
Many mechanics report that they often see customers unnecessarily replacing their car's batteries or starting charging systems when the real source of the P0560 code is related to a problem with the car's alternator. This indicates that the vehicle's alternator is having trouble charging and should be one of the first problems a qualified mechanic will check for when this engine trouble code is found.
HOW SERIOUS CODE P0560 IS?
While the code P0560 is not significant on its own, any potential problems with the vehicle's battery or charging systems could also negatively affect other vehicle systems, including:
- Security and locking systems
- Audio, telephone and navigation systems
- Entertainment systems on board
- Power seat systems
- Climate control systems
Over time, the car will also experience a reduction in fuel consumption. Therefore, it is always best to have the vehicle inspected and diagnosed by a qualified mechanic if the PCM logs an engine trouble code P0560 or if any of the code's symptoms occur.
WHAT REPAIRS CAN FIX CODE P0560?
The most common repair to resolve code P0560 is as follows:
- Battery Replacement
- Alternator replacement
- Repair of wiring, cables and connectors
Some vehicles may also experience issues with the vehicle's PCM, or further issues with charging and booting the system, requiring more complex repairs to these systems or a complete replacement.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS TO BE AWARE OF CODE P0560
Be sure to thoroughly inspect and diagnose the vehicle before replacing, as it is sometimes difficult for technicians to determine the P0560 error code. Once the required part has been replaced, have the mechanic run continuity tests and check all circuits in the system after the replacement to make sure the replacement corrected the problem.
Need more help with your p0560 code?
If you still need help with DTC P0560, post a question in the comments below this article.
NOTE. This information is provided for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as a repair recommendation and we are not responsible for any action you take on any vehicle. All information on this site is protected by copyright.
