The OBD2 code P0560 is triggered when there is an issue with the vehicle’s electrical system, specifically relating to the system voltage. This code indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an abnormality in the vehicle’s electrical system’s voltage level, either too high or too low, compared to the expected range.
Such voltage irregularities can lead to a range of performance issues, including poor idling, stalling, and erratic operation of electrical components.
P0560 quick overviewMeaningP0560: System Voltage MalfunctionIs it serious?Yes, as it affects the vehicle’s electrical system, which is critical for the operation of many components.Possible causes– Faulty alternator or charging system– Bad battery– Poor electrical connections or corroded wiring– Faulty voltage regulator (if separate from the alternator)– Issues with the vehicle’s main fuse box or relaysHow to diagnose?Check the battery and charging system: Ensure the battery is in good condition and that the alternator is providing the correct voltage.Inspect wiring and connections: Look for any signs of corrosion, damage, or loose connections.Evaluate the alternator and voltage regulator: Check for signs of failure or malfunction.Examine the fuse box and relays: Look for any signs of damage or poor connections that could affect voltage distribution.Consult technical service bulletins (TSBs): For known electrical issues related to the vehicle model.Overview of P0560 trouble codeP0560 MeaningImagine your car’s electrical system as the body’s circulatory system, with the battery acting like the heart. The P0560 code is like a doctor telling you there’s something off with your blood pressure—it’s either too high or too low.
Just as blood pressure issues can affect your overall health, voltage problems in your car can lead to all sorts of trouble, from the engine stalling to the lights dimming. It might be a sign that the alternator, which charges the battery, isn’t working right, or there could be a bad connection somewhere in the electrical wiring, acting like a kink in the arteries.
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How to fix P0560 – learn from mechanicsI looked into P0560 service cases at iatn.com website where in the private forums the mechanics seek advice from other mechanics. I looked up a bunch of cases to help you decide how to fix your issue and see what would a real mechanic do to solve it.
Case #1: CadillacVehicle Information 1997 Cadillac Catera 3.0L
Issue + Repair History
P0560 code indicating a voltage problem and poor idleOverheating at idle, cooling fan activates at 237 degrees FahrenheitCar runs normally but idles poorly at 630 to 645 RPM when warmOther OBD2 Codes + Test Results
P0560: System voltage problemMechanic Suggestions
Check charging system to ensure voltage is within the proper range (9 to 16 volts)Verify PCM power for proper voltage and inspect ground wires for cleanliness and tightnessConsider checking the temperature sender for the gauge as it may be defective, referring to TSB for details on the replacement partInvestigate the possibility of a failed alternator causing the voltage issue, as well as the potential for a failed diode in the alternatorExamine the regulator on the back of the alternator for any issuesFinal Fix
Replacement of the alternator due to intermittent internal problems resolved the low idle and cooling fan issues.Case #2: KiaVehicle Information 2000 Kia Sephia LS 1.8L
Issue + Repair History
Car stalls randomly with no discernible pattern, starts normally after each stallExperienced power loss resembling fuel delivery issues during test driveInstalled fuel pressure gauge and observed pressure drop to 51 PSI before stallMIL sometimes illuminates with consistent code P0560 indicating a system voltage issueReplaced fuel pump, fuel pump relay, main relay, and alternatorOther OBD2 Codes + Test Results
P0560: System voltageMechanic Suggestions
Known issue with the under-hood fuse box shorting out, recommended replacementAssistance offered via email for additional informationNo further suggestions provided due to exhaustive attempts at resolving the issueFinal Fix
Replacement of the main fuse box resolved the intermittent stalling issue, with additional discovery of a poor connection caused by a scotch lock in the wiring underneath the fuse box.Case #3: HyundaiVehicle Information 2002 Hyundai Sonata 2.4L
Issue + Repair History
Check engine light on with code P0560 indicating battery backup failureAlternator overcharging between 14.90v and 15.20vReplaced alternator and PCM, issue persistedFound low voltage (2.1v) at the back-up power supply to the PCMDiscovered poor connection in wiring at the fuse box, leading to voltage dropReplaced fuse box to resolve issueOther OBD2 Codes + Test Results
P0560: Battery back up failureMechanic Suggestions
Check TSB “00-36-013” for similar issues (not found in Alldata or Mitchell)Verify battery and alternator voltage at the battery and alternator terminalsVoltage drop check grounds and positive side for resistanceInspect battery for proper functioning as it is the natural load for the alternatorInvestigate wiring issues, particularly the engine compartment junction blockConsider cleaning connectors at the ECM and junction block for potential issuesFinal Fix
Replacement of the fuse box resolved the intermittent stalling issue, with additional discovery of a poor connection in the wiring underneath the fuse box, causing voltage drop and overcharging by the alternator.How to diagnose P0560I made you an overview of solving this DTC, based on all the advice that was suggested by certified mechanics to address this issue in previously mentioned service cases.
Diagnostic StepBrief ExplanationCheck the battery and charging systemVerify the battery’s health and the alternator’s output.Inspect wiring and connectionsLook for corrosion, damage, or loose connections in the electrical system.Evaluate the alternator and voltage regulatorDetermine if these components are functioning properly and delivering the correct voltage.Examine the fuse box and relaysCheck for damage or poor connections that could lead to voltage issues.Consult technical service bulletins (TSBs)Identify any known electrical system issues specific to the vehicle model.In the service cases provided—ranging from a 1997 Cadillac Catera through a 2000 Kia Sephia to a 2002 Hyundai Sonata—the common thread in resolving P0560 involved addressing components of the electrical system, like the alternator, fuse box, and connections.
The Cadillac’s issue was resolved by replacing the alternator, the Kia’s stalling was fixed with a new main fuse box, and the Hyundai’s battery backup failure was corrected by replacing the fuse box and repairing poor connections. These examples underscore the critical nature of a vehicle’s electrical system and the need for meticulous inspection and repair of components to ensure proper voltage regulation and system functionality.
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