Engine code
P0562: System voltage low
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts | $220 | $520 |
| Labor: 1.3 to 2.5 hours × $125 to $175 an hour | $163 | $438 |
| Fees: shop supplies, disposal, diagnostics | $0 | $30 |
| Total, rounded | $380 | $990 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in Boston, $31.54 an hour, times 4 to 5.5 to cover what a shop bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Parts are a band from budget aftermarket to the manufacturer part. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your car, parts and shop change the number.
This is the range for the most common fix, alternator replacement. Which repair your car needs depends on a proper diagnosis.
The computer watches the voltage in the car's electrical system, which should sit around 13.5 to 14.5 volts with the engine running. This time it dropped below the allowed low limit while driving. That usually means the alternator is not charging enough or the battery cannot hold a charge.
- Safe to drive?
- Short trips only
- Most common cause
- Failing alternator
Drive only a short distance to a shop; low voltage can stall the car and leave you stranded.
What you may notice
- Dim lights
- Battery warning light
- Slow starting
- Stalling
Common causes, most likely first
- Failing alternator
- Weak or dying battery
- Loose or corroded battery cable
- Worn serpentine belt
- Bad ground
Check this first
Have the battery and alternator load-tested, which many parts stores do for free. Also check that the battery clamps are tight and the cable ends are clean, since a corroded terminal can look like a failing alternator.
Other repairs that sometimes fix P0562
| Repair | Typical range, Boston |
|---|---|
| Battery replacement | $150 to $490 |
| Serpentine belt replacement | $75 to $300 |
| Battery cable replacement | $110 to $370 |
Before you pay
- Ask the shop what test showed this part is the cause, not just that the code appeared.
- Ask for parts and labor listed separately, and for the hours.
- Ask for a written OK before any extra work. Massachusetts rules require written authorization before repairs.
Got a quote already? Check it against the range. Want to see if your car has a recall tied to this problem? Check recalls by VIN.
Need to read a code yourself? OBD-II scanners on eBay (affiliate link, disclosure).
P0562 questions
Is it the battery or alternator?
A load test of the battery and a charging-output test of the alternator will tell them apart. A bad battery can make a good alternator work too hard, so the shop should test both before replacing either.
Why did other lights appear?
Many modules rely on steady voltage. When it dips, they may stop reporting and trip warning lights for ABS, airbags or stability control. These often clear after the voltage problem is fixed.
How far can I drive?
As little as possible. A failing alternator leaves the car running only on battery power, and once it drains, the car can stall with power steering and brakes feeling heavier. Go straight to a shop.
How much does it cost to fix P0562?
The most common fix, alternator replacement, has a typical range of $380 to $990 in Boston. It is an estimate built from parts prices and local labor wages, not a quote. Your car and shop change it.
Related codes
- P0500: Vehicle speed sensor signal problem
- P0700: Transmission computer reports a fault
- P0521: Oil pressure sensor signal out of range
More engine codes
Code meaning written in our own words. Some codes mean different things on different makes, so check your scan tool or manual. Not a repair shop, estimates only.