The 110/120-volt power outlet may be inoperative on some 2020-2023 Silverado 2500HD/3500HD and Sierra 2500HD/3500HD models. Vehicles may have two alternating current power outlets, located in the cab on the center stack or in the truck bed. (Fig. 7) An inoperative power outlet may be due to a low voltage condition.
Fig. 7
Power Outlet Switch
First, check that the power outlet is turned on. There is an in-cab DC/AC power outlet switch that must be turned on in order for the 110/120-volt power outlet(s) to function. Check the switch on the center of the instrument panel.
When the ignition is on, power is supplied to the outlets after the DC/AC switch is pressed. A green indicator light on the switch indicates that DC/AC operation is active. (Fig. 8) All connected devices should not exceed a maximum of 400 watts. If equipment is connected using more than 400 watts or a system fault is detected, a protection circuit shuts off the power supply and the indicator light turns off.
Fig. 8
The power outlet can be turned off by pressing the DC/AC switch. The power outlet can be turned back on after 10 seconds, during which the indicator light on the switch will flash. The outlets will not operate when the ignition is off, the DC/AC switch is not pressed, or the plug is not fully seated into the outlet.
Possible Battery Concern
If the accessory power outlet was correctly turned on, turn it off. Next, disconnect the battery or batteries for several minutes and then reconnect. Start the vehicle and turn on the in-cab power outlet switch. Connect a suitable device to the power outlet and check to see if there is power to it.
If the power outlet now operates, it is possible that the Body Control Module (BCM) determined there was a low battery condition and locked out the 110/120-volt power outlet(s). Inspect the vehicle for any type of condition that may cause a low voltage concern.
Possible concerns may include:
- Parasitic draw on the battery that may or may not cause a low/dead battery or a no crank condition
- Poor battery cable or main fuse block connections
- A battery issue
- Aftermarket equipment
Repair any conditions found that would affect the 12V battery.
For more information, refer to #PIT6096.
– Thanks to Jim Will
