Voltage gauge

[BoBo_Wickersham]

New Tahoe. Voltage gauge seems to be low all the time. Thoughts?

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[mattluttrell]

I've noticed this in mine. I wondered if the alternator disconnected when not needed to save energy. I know some Chryslers do this.

 

[jenielsen]

I too have noticed this on mine. It drops significantly lower than 14 some of the time while driving.

 

[wcourt]

Voltage gauge reading low intermittently. 2015 Tahoe. Not even 1,800 miles yet. Also, battery dead overnight. Perhaps a different issue, but at the same time, locked in 4wd with switch in 2wd. Dealer updated TCM software to resolve 4wd issue. Battery and/or voltage issue still open. Dealer still has vehicle trying to resolve. Will update later.

 

[HERD546]

I have a digital volt meter that I got from Auto Zone that plugs into the power / lighter plug. Most automotive systems run at 13.8 to 14.2 volts
The volt meter is under $20.00 it also has 3 LED's that show battery charge.
I know that there are issues with battery cables.

 

[wcourt]

Digital volt meter in the power/lighter sounds like a good diagnostic tool. I will get one. Dealer still has the Tahoe (day 3). This is an update today from the dealer: "We know there is definitely an issue it’s just a matter of getting the concern to happen and then diagnosing what we duplicate".

 

[wcourt]

Well, I have the Tahoe back from the dealer (after 5 days). They say it is "highly likely" the voltage problem was due to the old TCM software. Because it was stuck in 4wd and they did update the software, they have not had a voltage drop issue. Time will tell. I will say that since the software update, the steering takes more effort at low speed. I guess I will assume that's normal until someone tells me otherwise.

 

[Mad Maxx]

I know it's an old thread, but rather than make a new one....

I noticed my Voltage Gauge is reading low like a few people in here. Has anyone found out if there is an actual problem, or if this is normal? Measured Voltage at the battery at Idle, and it was 12.62

 

[ccapehartusarmyINF.(ret)]

whoa yeah thats a no go hooah
on a newer vehicle yer alternator should be crankin out 14.4 volts with out breakin a sweat
12.6 volts at the battery at idle hell i dont even think thats enough to charge the battery
what voltage are you getting at the alternator the little terminal on the back

 

[t.stimpson]

from what I understand on my 09 yukon the alternator is "as needed" so my voltmeter shows different settings anwhere between 12-14. I'm guessing this might be the same with the newer trucks?