1997 GMC Sonoma Owner's Manual - Page 105

Voltmeter Gage When your engine is not running, but the ignition is on (in the RUN position), this gage shows your battery's state of charge in DC volts. Readings in the low warning zone may occur when a large number of electrical accessories are operatingin the vehicle and the engine is left at an idle for an extended period. This condition is normal since the charging system is not able to provide fullpower at engine idle. As engine speeds areincreased, this condition should correct itself as higher engine speeds allow the charging system to create maximum power. You can only drive for ashort time with the reading in either warning zone. If you must drive, turn off all unnecessary accessories. Readings in either warning zone indicate a possible problem in the electrical system. Have the vehicle serviced as soon as possible. P I (J VOLTS When the engine is running, the gage shows the condition of the chargingsystem. Readings between the low and high warning zones indicate the normal operating range.