In a conventional charging system with a working warning lamp, the lamp illuminates at ignition-on and goes out after starting. What does it normally indicate if it stays off while driving?

Correct answer

That, normally, the generator is producing electrical energy.

That the system is not signalling a charging fault and the generator is operating normally. The lamp normally illuminates at ignition-on and goes out after starting; illumination while driving may indicate an alternator, regulator or wiring fault. An extinguished lamp alone does not prove every component is in perfect condition; heed other warnings and symptoms.