Why is my 2017 Chevrolet Malibu charging at 15.4 volts

Discussion Forum
1

I have a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu and it’s recently been charging to 15.4 volts. I’ve also been getting shocked a lot when I get into the car while it’s running. I have a car audio system that runs about 1200W RMS at full tilt, which is a big pull on the stock electrical system. Is my voltage regulator on the alternator going bad or is 15.4 volts within spec?

2

That is actually in spec. It monitors how much voltage is needed for the current situation and adjusts for it. I think it can charge up to 18 volts if needed. Just like when everything is fully charged, it will actually shut down for periods of time if it isn’t needed.

3

@Ash
Oh wow, I didn’t know it could go up to 18 volts. That makes sense. Thanks for the info!

4

Kirby said:
@Ash
Oh wow, I didn’t know it could go up to 18 volts. That makes sense. Thanks for the info!

Yeah, it’s pretty cool how modern systems work. Just make sure everything else is functioning well too.

5

I’ve seen similar issues with other cars. Maybe the shocks you’re feeling are related to your audio system pulling so much power. Have you checked your grounding?

6

Zion said:
I’ve seen similar issues with other cars. Maybe the shocks you’re feeling are related to your audio system pulling so much power. Have you checked your grounding?

Not really, I figured it was just the voltage thing. What do you mean by grounding?

7

@Kirby
Grounding is how the electrical system connects to the car’s frame. A bad ground can cause weird electrical issues like shocks.

8

Bly said:
Have you thought about upgrading your electrical system? That audio system is pulling a lot, and the stock setup might not handle it well.

I haven’t really considered it yet. Do you think it would help with the voltage issues?

9

I had a similar voltage issue with my car. It turned out to be a bad voltage regulator. You might want to get it checked just in case.

10

Addison said:
I had a similar voltage issue with my car. It turned out to be a bad voltage regulator. You might want to get it checked just in case.

Thanks for the heads up. I’ll keep that in mind. I just want to make sure my car is safe to drive.

11

If you’re getting shocked, it might also be a sign of static electricity buildup. Try touching something metal before you get in the car to discharge yourself.

12

Jory said:
If you’re getting shocked, it might also be a sign of static electricity buildup. Try touching something metal before you get in the car to discharge yourself.

Good tip, I’ll try that. Static shocks can be annoying for sure.