Engine Controls - Battery Is Dead, Requires Multiple Jump Start
12-041February 2, 2013
Applies To
See VEHICLES AFFECTED
The Battery Is Dead and Needs Multiple Jump-Starts
(Supersedes 12-041, dated November 13, 2012, to revise the information marked by asterisks and black bars)
*REVISION SUMMARY
Under SOFTWARE INFORMATION, some of the Program IDs and Part Numbers were changed.*
SYMPTOM
The vehicle has sat for at least two days, has a dead battery, and needs multiple jump-starts to start the engine.
NOTE:
^ A dead battery could be normal depending on the battery condition, battery age, and how long the vehicle has sat. This software update will have no effect on these conditions.
^ A jump-start should only be used to get the vehicle to a service station or dealer. It should not be used to fully charge the battery.
^ There are many other possible causes that a vehicle needs multiple jump starts such as a faulty alternator, a faulty or sulfated battery, a parasitic draw, or loose battery cables.
^ If a battery is sulfated, the sulfate makes charging the battery more difficult. After the battery is properly charged, the effect of the sulfation is reduced so that in most cases, the battery will not need another jump start.
PROBABLE CAUSE
The vehicle's battery sensor monitors battery condition and the PCM determines charging mode. Based on the sulfation of the battery and customer driving habits the PCM may not select the correct charge mode.
VEHICLES AFFECTED
CORRECTIVE ACTION
Update the PGM-FI Software.
WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION
The normal warranty applies.
SOFTWARE INFORMATION
NOTE:
Unnecessary or incorrect repairs resulting from a failure to update the HDS or MVCI are not covered under warranty.
MVCI Control Module (CM) Update:
Application Version V2.17.06 or later
Database update 14-May-2012 or later
HDS Software Version:
3.004.005 or later
Before beginning the repair, make sure that both the HDS and MVCI are updated as listed above.
Do only the update listed in this service bulletin.
Check that the MVCI indicates the applicable program ID listed below (or a later program ID) as the Recommended Update when the update begins.
If the MVCI displays This vehicle does not need an update at this time during the update, the software for this service bulletin is already installed.
For more information about updating the HDS, the MVCI, and vehicle systems, refer to Service Bulletin 01-023, Updating Control Units/Modules.
REPAIR PROCEDURE
1. Check the condition of the battery using the GR8 (software version 192-210007K or later). If necessary replace the battery before updating the PGM-FI software. Refer to Service Bulletin 88-023, Battery Testing and Replacement.
2. If the GR8 diagnostics leads to a failed component such as a battery, an alternator, or starter then repair as necessary. Do not perform this software update, it will not correct the problem.
3. Connect the HDS to the vehicle and check the Consumption Current History.
^ If the current consumption is between 19.9 and 29.9 ma, go to step 4 and update the PGM-FI software.
^ If the consumption is greater than 29.9 ma, this bulletin does not apply. Continue with normal troubleshooting to find the excess draw.
NOTE:
You can find the consumption current history under the Select Mode menu.
4. Update the PGM-FI software. Refer to Service Bulletin 01-023, Updating Control Units/Modules.
Disclaimer