- 2007 LS trim
- 2.2 liter EcoTec engine
- automatic transmission

So when I went and got my alignment from a chain shop recently they included a free complimentary vehicle inspection since I had a coupon from their website, which included a quick battery test. While I was checking out/paying for my alignment, it was mentioned by the front desk person that my alternator might be overcharging - but no further details were provided

Today I went ahead and recorded 2 videos on my phone just to get a second opinion here. Weather was nice out/warm weather so there weren't really any "loads" on the car besides the radio being on. Also it was daytime around 2-3 PM so headlights were off as well

The first video here was taken from a cold-start/very first start of the day, it was a random groceries trip down to Walmart and took just under 19 minutes...

First start-up/drive to Walmart:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ox3...w?usp=drivesdk

The second video was on the return trip back home, I figured I would record it as well just for comparison's sake. It's around 18 minutes...

Return trip from Walmart:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ox1...xfZtlIIVF/view

I'm not familiar with voltage stuff or what "L terminal" and "F terminal" mean, so I was just wondering if someone familiar with factory specs could read/interpret these videos for me. Normal? Overcharging? Undercharging?

I currently have a check engine light on for "P0036", but that has been there for months and has nothing to do with the alternator or charging system. The rest of the dash is clean/quiet as far as lights go, there is no battery light on or anything like that

Thanks

 

I suggest you go to a big parts palace and have them test the charging system and load test the battery.

 

The HHR has a computer controlled alternator. The output varies by requirements. Alternators in the last century had mechanical regulators either on or off.
I don't know what "overcharging " means.
I don't have the patience to watch videos; what are they supposed to show? Reminds me of a current commercial on TV about how difficult it is to be forced to watch a 20 minute video that some guy thinks has a funny bit 17 minutes in: it is easier to hire a lawyer.
Why do you say P0036 has nothing to do with the electrical system?
If you want to find out about L and F terminals on alternators, GoOgle is very handy.

 

Not sure I'd take advice about my electrical system from the lube shop.

But do fix the POO36. Having a working second O2 sensor could give you a heads up about other problems.

 

He is reportedly repairing his O2 sensor wiring this weekend.

 

You didn't have him replace it? Shucks, another one got away.