AutoCodes – Saturn – P0620 Saturn

P0620 Saturn Code - Generator Control Circuit Malfunction

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) uses the generator turn on signal circuit to control the generator. Common causes include Battery charge, Faulty Voltage Regulator, Faulty Generator. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0620 Saturn indicates Generator Control Circuit Malfunction.
Common causes
Common causes include Battery charge, Faulty Voltage Regulator, Faulty Generator.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 3,984
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 01, 2019
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Code P0620 Saturn Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) uses the generator turn on signal circuit to control the generator. A high side driver within the ECM allows the ECM to turn the generator ON and OFF. When Generator operation is desired, the ECM sends a 5 volt signal to the voltage regulator via the generator turn on signal circuit. This causes the voltage regulator to begin controlling the generator field circuit. Once the Generator is enabled by the ECM, the voltage regulator controls generator output independently of the ECM. Under certain operating conditions, the ECM can turn Off the generator by turning Off the 5 volt signal on the generator turn on signal circuit.
OBDII Code P0620 Saturn - Generator Control Circuit Malfunction - AutoCodes.com
P0620 Saturn Code - Generator Control Circuit Malfunction

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0620 Saturn?

  • Battery charge
  • Faulty Voltage Regulator
  • Faulty Generator
  • Generator harness is open or shorted
  • Generator circuit poor electrical connection
  • Engine Control Module (ECM) controlled generator
  • Faulty ECM

How to Fix the DTC P0620 Saturn?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0620 Saturn code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0620 Saturn code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0620 Saturn code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0620 Saturn Code

No Frequently Asked Questions about P0620 Saturn Code found.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0620 Saturn OBDII Code

  • Almost 100% of the time, it is the voltage regulator that is at fault. A sure clue is the voltage at the battery while the car is running. If it's 14.5 volts, or close to it, it is probably not the alternator. If the voltage is way off, say 15 volts, or 12 volts or less, than it most likely IS the alternator. If the voltage is too high, it can easily damage other components before the ecm turns off the alternator, so be careful.

  • Thank you for the information!! We'll update possible causes.

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