TECHTIPS May 2018 (TIPS0518)

Publication date: 2018-05-01
Reference number: TIPS0518

TECHTIPS MAY 2018

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): TIPS0518, Date of Issue: May 01, 2018

SUBARU:

All Models

01 CLEARING TROUBLE CODES

The Techline continues to receive calls from Technicians with codes that will not clear. When clearing a DTC, you are prompted by the Select Monitor to wait thirty seconds before cycling the key back on. Failure to follow the instructions will result in the code staying current. Always follow the instructions prompted by the Select Monitor when in use.

01 SUBARU DIAGNOSTICS

The Techline has received calls where a Technician is having issues with a trouble tree wiring diagram. The trouble tree wiring diagrams are not complete system wiring diagrams. In most cases, there is a hyper link to the complete system diagram. The example below is from a 2016 Outback with a C1241. Notice in the complete system diagram, all connectors are shown. Techline will always recommend Technicians use the complete system wiring diagram.

Trouble Tree Wiring Diagram:

Complete System Diagram:

07 ECM REPROGRAMMING

Depending on the length of time elapsed since the engine was shut down, there is a possibility an error could occur which may damage the ECM. To avoid this condition, the following procedure should be followed when reprogramming the ECM. The ECM automatically activates a timer at one hour intervals for up to 5 hours, at which time it enters into a self-diagnostic period. If reprogramming is attempted during this self-diagnostic period, the ECM will be damaged. To avoid this condition, the procedure below should be followed when reprogramming the ECM.

Start the engine and allow it to run until base idle speed is achieved. Reprogramming should be performed within (1) hour.
Should the ECM become inoperative during the reprogramming process, disconnect both positive (+) and negative (-) battery terminals for at least 2 or more seconds, reconnect then restart the normal reprogramming process.

Reminders:

Service Procedure:

Reprogram the ECM following the normal FlashWrite procedure.

Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) highly recommends connecting the Subaru Midtronics GR8 Diagnostic Battery Charger to the vehicle and utilizing the Power Supply Mode feature anytime a vehicle control module is being reprogrammed. Follow the procedure as outlined in document GR8 - 1100 on STIS for use of the GR8's Power Supply Mode:

Confirm all electrical loads such as lights, audio, HVAC, seat heaters, and rear defroster are all switched OFF before setting up for Power Supply Mode.
Select the correct battery type (Flooded, AGM or AGM Spiral).
Select the CCA which matches the vehicle's battery
NOTE: OE and replacement batteries have different CCA ratings. Always confirm the battery rating before proceeding.
If the "Charge Battery" WARNING appears, the battery MUST be charged before attempting reprogramming.
DO NOT connect the DSTi or SDI until the GR8 Power Supply mode has completed its battery test mode and the Charging Voltage has dropped to a steady 13.5 Volts on the display.
If the GR8 "beeps" or the Status Light flashes, a diagnostic charge should be performed on the battery before proceeding further.
Once Power Supply Mode reaches a steady 13.5 volts, connect the DSTi or SDI to the OBD connector and initiate the reprogramming process.
Amperage will fluctuate based upon the vehicle's demand for power.
NOTE: If the voltage rises beyond 14V while programming is in process, the procedure will abort. This can indicate a need to test or charge the vehicle battery before any further attempt at programming.

IMPORTANT:

This information is applicable to the Midtronics GR8 Diagnostic Battery Charger ONLY. It does not apply to any other brand/type of "generic" battery charger whatsoever. ONLY the GR8 and its Power Supply Mode feature has been tested and approved by SOA.

Once the GR8 is connected to the vehicle, as long as the battery is fully charged, it takes less than 3 minutes to boot-up the charger, select Power Supply Mode, and have the battery voltage stabilized and ready for reprogramming.

REMINDER: If the GR8 indicates the vehicle's battery must be charged, charge the battery using the GR8 before proceeding to reprogram the vehicle.

NOTE: Control module failures as a result of battery discharge during reprogramming are not a matter for warranty. Should any DTCs reset after the reprogramming update is performed, diagnose per the procedure outlined in the applicable Service Manual.

15 2014-2018MY FORESTER, REAR-VIEW MIRROR REMOVAL HELPFUL HINTS

The photo sequence below describes how to remove the rear view mirror assembly from the windshield attachment point. Where applicable, always disconnect the wiring harness first. To avoid possible damage to the mirror and/or the windshield, it is IMPORTANT to take your time use fingers only and never force anything.

KEYLESS ACCESS WITH PUSH BUTTON START VEHICLES 15 - ERRATIC BEEPING WHEN ENTERING THE VEHICLE

When unlocking a Keyless Access with Push Button start vehicle using the exterior door handle feature, if you receive 2 beeps repeated 5 times, a quick review of the BIU data will likely show the cause. Figure 1 shows the two items to monitor depending on which front door is being used to duplicate the issue.

Figure 1: BIU Data PIDs to monitor

Issue occurs when using Driver's door

Issue occurs when using Passenger's door

Driver's seat lock status SW input	ON/OFF
Passenger's seat lock status SW input	ON/OFF

While monitoring the data, unlock the vehicle from the door handle being used when the issue occurs. If the lock status remains ON, the BIU is not receiving the signal that the door successfully unlocked. This results in repeated attempts at unlocking the door and the repeated beeping. Once verified, refer to the applicable Service Manual and diagnose the circuit according the wiring diagram and component testing procedures.