I have a 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix, twice, when it has been very cold out, the display said "charging system failure", it only said it for a few seconds, and the car seems to be running fine. SHould I be concerned?

Asked by GuruBGL1C Jan 29, 2019 at 10:19 AM about the Pontiac Grand Prix

Question type: General

2 Answers

43,060

Keep an eye on it. If the problem becomes more frequent you can have the battery and alternator tested for free at an auto parts store. I am guessing that moisture is freezing in the electrical brushes and interrupting the current for just a moment and back on again. If it doesn't go away in warmer weather or with a warmer engine, get it tested soon. It won't leave you stranded as a strong battery can power a car's electricals for up to two hours with a dead alternator. But be safe.

26,355

If your battery is more than 3 years old, I would just replace it (but go ahead and have it checked anyway). Cold weather can kill a weak battery quickly by not allowing a sufficient charge to be held for starting the vehicle. If your battery is newer, I would think about investing in a battery booster and keep it with you in the car. Good ones on the market these days that will hold a charge good enough to start your car for up to a year.

Your Answer:

Own this car?

Share your experience with others.

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    munron
    Reputation
    8,160
  • #2
    James Sparrow
    Reputation
    7,500
  • #3
    Dorian Hendricks
    Reputation
    6,060
View All

Know more, shop wisely

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Pontiac Bonneville
44 listings starting at $3,495
Used Pontiac G8
5 Great Deals out of 80 listings starting at $4,999
Used Pontiac Firebird
21 Great Deals out of 358 listings starting at $5,950
Used Pontiac GTO
5 Great Deals out of 174 listings starting at $11,999
Used Dodge Charger
779 Great Deals out of 23,047 listings starting at $2,750
Used Pontiac G6
14 Great Deals out of 306 listings starting at $450
Used Pontiac Grand Am
59 listings
Used Ford Mustang
987 Great Deals out of 21,456 listings starting at $1,800
Used Chevrolet Camaro
609 Great Deals out of 8,659 listings starting at $4,000
Used Chevrolet Corvette
732 Great Deals out of 12,475 listings starting at $4,300
Used Chevrolet Monte Carlo
7 Great Deals out of 197 listings starting at $2,950
Used Ford Taurus
181 Great Deals out of 2,267 listings starting at $1,975
Used Buick Regal
56 Great Deals out of 757 listings starting at $2,000
Used Chrysler 300
338 Great Deals out of 6,479 listings starting at $999
Used Chevrolet Impala
276 Great Deals out of 3,963 listings starting at $500

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.