P065C Generator Mechanical Performance
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Generator Mechanical Performance
What does that mean?
This is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and applies to many OBD-II vehicles (1996-newer). That may include but is not limited to vehicles from Mazda, Nissan, Land Rover, Chrysler, Ford, Dodge, GMC, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on year, make, model, and powertrain configuration.
A stored code P065C means that the powertrain control module (PCM), or one of the other related controllers, has detected a low output condition in the generator system.
In some cases, the alternator is called the generator but more frequently this type of code is used in a hybrid or electric vehicle which produces sustained electrical power from a generator. The generator may be driven by the engine or any of the drive wheels.
The PCM monitors generator output voltage and amperage at varying RPM levels and load degrees and calculates voltage requirements accordingly. In addition to monitoring generator output (performance), the PCM is also responsible for providing a signal that activates the generator lamp in the event of low output.
If a problem is detected in monitoring generator performance, a code P065C will be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) may be illuminated.
Example of an alternator (generator):
What is the severity of this DTC?
A P065C should be categorized as severe because it may result in a low battery charge level and/or a no start condition.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P065C trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this code may include:
What are some P065C troubleshooting steps?
The battery must be fully charged and the generator operating at an acceptable level before attempting to diagnose a P065C.
Consult your vehicle information source for technical service bulletins (TSB) that replicate the code stored, vehicle (year, make, model, and engine), and symptoms exhibited. If you find the appropriate TSB, it may yield helpful diagnostic information.
A diagnostic scanner and a digital volt/ohmmeter will be necessary to accurately diagnose a code P065C. A reliable source of vehicle information will also be required.
Begin by connecting the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic port and retrieving all stored codes and freeze frame data. You will want to write this information down, just in case the code proves to be an intermittent one.
After recording all pertinent information, clear the codes and test drive the vehicle (if possible) until the code is reset or the PCM enters readiness mode.
If the PCM enters readiness mode, the code is intermittent and will be even more difficult to diagnose. The condition, which caused the P065C to be stored, may need to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be reached. On the other hand, if the code fails to reset and there are no drivability symptoms exhibited, the vehicle can be operated normally.
If the P065C is immediately reset, proceed with a visual inspection of system related wiring and connectors. Harnesses that have been broken of unplugged should be repaired or replaced as required.
If wiring and connectors appear functional, use your source of vehicle information to obtain the appropriate wiring diagrams, connector face views, connector pin-out charts, and diagnostic flow charts.
Once you have the correct information, test all system fuses and relays to make sure the generator is being supplied voltage.
If generator supply voltage is not present, trace the appropriate circuit back to the fuse or relay from which it originates. Repair or replace defective fuses, relays, or fusible links as required. In some cases generator supply voltage is routed through the PCM. You may use wiring diagrams and other vehicle specific information to help diagnose generator voltage supply malfunctions.
If generator supply voltage is present, use your DVOM to test generator output performance at the appropriate pin of the generator connector. If the appropriate level of generator output voltage is not discovered, suspect that the generator is defective.
If the generator is charging within specifications, check the level of voltage at the appropriate pin of the PCM connector. If the voltage is the same at the PCM connector as it is at the generator, suspect that the PCM is defective or there is a programming error.
Should the level of voltage at the PCM connector differ (by more than 10-percent) between what is detected at the generator connector, suspect a shorted or open circuit between the two.
Need help?
Let us fix your problem. You are most welcome our diagnosis experts have in most cases the knowledge and skills to find the cause of the error code p065c and to solve the problems.
Make an appointment for diagnosis
"Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p065c in the ECU"
In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p065c and disable the function of the specific error code in the ECU. All other fault code functions will then continue to work to protect the engine. This is different from clearing an error code with a diagnostic device. We have the option to permanently remove the function of the specific error code, so that it never comes back. Also emergency running that occurs on the specific error code can be solved in most cases.
Of course we prefer to first try to solve the cause of the error code, but sometimes the only solution is to permanently disable the DTC function of p065c.
