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The check charging system indicator on a Ford Taurus indicates that the ECU has detected an issue with the voltage in the vehicle. The alternator should be charging at 14.4 volts, and the battery should maintain a resting voltage of 12.4 volts when the car is not running. If either of these values is not correct, the check charging system light will illuminate. Typically, the light will appear if the alternator is malfunctioning. Begin by inspecting the alternator to ensure the belt is in place and the main wire on top is securely connected. If everything looks fine, the alternator may be failing. To pinpoint the problem, I suggest conducting tests on both the battery and alternator.
If the warning light for the check charging system is illuminated, there could be a problem with the electrical system or a blown fuse.
The issue of my "Check Charging System" warning was actually due to a CD that was stuck in the CD player. I spent two weeks and $500 troubleshooting, including rebuilding the alternator and inspecting the wiring, before discovering the simple source of the problem.