GMC Canyon Battery Woes: Beyond Just a Dead Cell

Being the owner of a 2012 GMC Sierra with similar battery issues, I can share some relevant experience. With a moderate level of car maintenance knowledge, I initially thought it was just a battery problem too. The symptoms you describe match what I experienced, weak cranking and dimming lights pointed to low voltage issues. Even though my battery was relatively new, the voltage sensor was providing incorrect readings to the cars computer system, causing charging problems. After testing the battery health thoroughly, my workshop identified a faulty battery sensor as the root cause. The repair involved replacing the voltage sensor and recalibrating the battery management system. Total cost was 315 Euro including parts and labor. Before suggesting specific solutions, could you provide: Current battery voltage readings if available, Any warning lights on the dashboard, Whether the charging system warning light comes on, If you notice the issues more during cold starts The battery testing results would be particularly helpful to determine if your situation matches what I encountered. With more details, I can share specific information about the repair process and potential solutions.

I had my vehicle serviced last week at 102037 KM and the workshop diagnosed the issue. The battery voltage readings showed 12.1V when tested, which is below optimal levels. After a thorough check of the battery health and charging system, they discovered the battery sensor was indeed malfunctioning. The repair involved replacing both the voltage sensor and cleaning the battery terminals. Total repair cost came to 280 Euro. The car now starts perfectly with no more dimming lights or weak cranking. Voltage readings are now steady at 14.2V while running. Would recommend checking your battery voltage with a multimeter first, then having the battery sensor specifically tested. This could save diagnostic time at the workshop.

Glad to hear you got it resolved. Your experience mirrors mine exactly, getting those steady 14.2V readings is the sweet spot we want to see for proper battery charge. After my sensor replacement, I also noticed significantly improved cold starts and stable electrical performance. The battery maintenance tip about cleaning the terminals is crucial. My workshop mentioned that corrosion around terminals can interfere with voltage sensor readings, leading to similar symptoms. Since the repair, I do regular voltage checks using a multimeter, anything consistently below 12.4V usually indicates potential issues. For anyone dealing with similar vehicle diagnostics troubles, the key signs we both experienced were: Weak cranking despite a relatively new battery, Fluctuating voltage readings, Dimming lights, Low voltage warnings The 280 Euro repair cost seems standard, mine was slightly higher at 315 Euro but included additional system checks. Better to address these battery sensor issues early before they potentially damage other electrical components.

Thanks for the detailed responses about the battery sensor issue. After getting the work done and seeing the results, I can confidently say this solved my GMC Canyons starting problems completely. For anyone facing similar low voltage symptoms, my final voltage readings tell the story: Before repair: weak 12.1V, After repair: healthy 14.2V while running The 280 Euro total for replacing the voltage sensor and cleaning terminals was money well spent. The vehicle diagnostics clearly showed the battery health was fine, just the sensor giving false readings. Regular battery testing could have caught this sooner. My advice is to start with basic voltage checks using a multimeter, its an easy first step before heading to the workshop. The stable electrical system and strong starts make the repair cost worthwhile. Good to know these battery voltage sensor issues are relatively common. The symptoms of weak cranking and dim lights, even with a new battery, seem to be telltale signs to watch for.