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franziskadunkel1

Cobalt Electrical Issue

Hey, I'm having a major electrical issue with my 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt with a gasoline engine. The battery keeps getting heavily discharged. I'm seeing an error message in the speedometer, the lights are weak and flickering, and the error memory has a bunch of codes related to low voltage. Starting the engine is a struggle; the battery is just too weak. I suspect a defective battery sensor based on some research. Anyone experienced similar symptoms? I'm pulling my hair out here!

Summary of the thread

A 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is experiencing a major electrical issue, with symptoms including a heavily discharged battery, error messages, weak and flickering lights, and low voltage error codes. The problem is suspected to be a defective battery sensor. After consulting with a mechanic, the issue is confirmed to be the battery sensor, which is then repaired, resolving the electrical problems.

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4 comment(s)

mianacht83

Greetings. I understand you're experiencing a discharged battery issue in your 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. The symptoms you describe, including the error message, weak lights, stored error codes, and starting difficulties, certainly point to a significant electrical problem. Have you tested the battery's voltage when the car is off and when it's running? What values did you get?

franziskadunkel1 (community.author)

Thanks for the quick reply! Yes, I measured the voltage. When the car is off, it reads around 11.8V, and when it's running, it barely hits 13.2V. Does that confirm my suspicion of a faulty battery sensor, or could there be something else at play here? I'm trying to avoid unnecessary expenses.

mianacht83

Those voltage readings are indeed concerning. A healthy charging system should read closer to 14V when running. While a faulty battery sensor is a strong possibility, other components like the alternator or even a parasitic draw could be contributing. With those symptoms and error codes, it's wise to bring the car to a trusted workshop to confirm the diagnosis. They have the proper tools to pinpoint the exact cause. It sounds like this is beyond a simple fix.

franziskadunkel1 (community.author)

You were spot on! I took it to my mechanic, and it was indeed the battery sensor. The repair, including parts and labor, came out to 315€. Thanks a bunch for your advice; it saved me a lot of time and potential misdiagnosis!

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CHEVROLET

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COBALT