Troubleshooting Guide

2005 Mitsubishi Lancer L4-2.4L SOHCSECTION Troubleshooting Guide
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
The charging system troubleshooting guide is shown in the following steps.

STEP 1

Q: Is the battery in good condition? (Refer to Chassis Electrical Battery - On-vehicle Service - Battery Check.)

YES: Go to Step 2.

NO: Charge or replace the battery.

STEP 2.

Q: Is the generator drive belt in good condition? (Refer to General Maintenance Service - Drive Belt (For Generator, Power Steering Oil Pump and A/C Compressor) (Check Condition))

YES: Go to Step 3.

NO: Adjust the belt tension or replace the belt.

STEP 3.

Q: Does the generator malfunction light come on when the ignition switch is turned on?

YES: Go to Step 4.

NO:
- Check the ignition switch. (Refer to Chassis Electrical - Ignition Switch - Ignition - Switch - Inspection)
- Check for burnt-out generator malfunction light.
- Check the generator. (Refer to Charging System - Generator Assembly Inspection)
- Check the generator malfunction light-related circuits.

STEP 4.

Q: Does the generator malfunction light go out after starting the engine?

YES: Go to Step 5.

NO: Check the generator (Refer to Charging System - Generator Assembly - Inspection.)

STEP 5.

Q: Is an oscilloscope available?

YES: Go to Step 6.

NO: Go to Step 7.

STEP 6.

Q: Does the oscilloscope show a normal wave pattern? (Refer to Charging System - On-vehicle Service - Wave Pattern Check Using an Oscilloscope.)

YES: Go to Step 7.

NO: Check the generator. (Refer to Charging System - Generator Assembly - Inspection)


STEP 7.
- Engine: 2,500 r/min
- Headlight: ON (high beam)
- Voltage between generator terminal B and the positive battery terminal

OK: 0.5 V or less

- Voltage between the negative battery terminal and generator body

OK: 0.5 V or less

Q: Are the generator output line and ground line in good condition?

YES: Go to Step 8.

NO: Check the generator output line and ground line.

STEP 8.

Q: Is the output current normal? (Refer to Charging System On-vehicle Service Output Current Test)

YES: Go to Step 9.

NO: Check the generator (Refer to Charging System - Generator Assembly Inspection.)

STEP 9.

Q: Is the regulated voltage normal? (Refer to Charging System - On-vehicle Service - Regulated Voltage Test)

YES: Go to Step 10.

NO: Check the generator (Refer to Charging System - Generator Assembly Inspection.)

STEP 10.

Q: Is the voltage drop in the generator output line normal?

YES: Generator is normal. Check other systems.

NO: Check the output line.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.