Charging System Light; Voltmeter Gage - Chevrolet 2008 TrailBlazer Owner's Manual

Charging System Light

It should go out once the engine is running. If it stays on,
or comes on while driving, there could be a problem
with the charging system. A charging system Driver
Information Center (DIC) message may also appear.
See DIC Warnings and Messages on page 3-53 for more
information. This light could indicate that there are
problems with a generator drive belt, or that there is an
electrical problem. Have it checked right away. If you
must drive a short distance with the light on, be certain to
turn off all the accessories, such as the radio and air
conditioner.
This light will come on
briefly when you turn on
the ignition key, but
the engine is not running,
as a check to show
you it is working.

Voltmeter Gage

When the engine is running, the gage shows the
condition of the charging system. The gage may
transition from a higher to lower or a lower to higher
reading. This is normal. Readings between the low and
high warning zones indicate the normal operating range.
The voltmeter gage may also read lower when in fuel
economy mode. This is normal.
Readings in the low warning zone may occur when a
large number of electrical accessories are operating in
the vehicle and the engine is left idling for an extended
period. This condition is normal since the charging
system is not able to provide full power at engine idle.
As engine speeds are increased, this condition should
correct itself as higher engine speeds allow the charging
system to create maximum power.
When your engine is not
running, but the ignition is
on, this gage displays
the battery voltage in
DC volts.
3-37