TCM Reprogramming File Availability To Address Inconsistent Shifting/Slipping Concerns When Cold (16-98-16R)

Publication date: 2017-02-02
Reference number: 16-98-16R
Supersedes refnos: 16-98-16

TCM REPROGRAMMING FILE AVAILABILITY TO ADDRESS INCONSISTENT SHIFTING/SLIPPING CONCERNS WHEN COLD

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): 16-98-16R, Date of Issue: February 2, 2017

SUBARU:

2015-2016 WRX

Superceded Bulletin(s): 16-98-16, Date of Issue: February 05, 2016

APPLICABILITY

2015-2016MY WRX Models

INTRODUCTION

This bulletin announces availability of reprogramming files for optimization of the transmission control module (TCM). The new logic addresses customer concerns of inconsistent shifting characteristics and/or a "slipping" -type sensation which may be experienced under moderate acceleration after a cold start before the CVT is up to operating temperature.

PRODUCTION CHANGE INFORMATION

The new TCM logic was incorporated into production starting with VIN G*825251 .

PACK FILE APPLICABILITY

MODEL	MODEL YEAR	PAK FILE NAME	NEW TCM PART NUMBER	OLD TCM PART NUMBERS	DECRYPTION KEYWORD	NEW CID NUMBER
WRX 2.0L DIT	2015	30919AD792.pak	30919AD792	30919AD790, 791	97ABDBFA	L9FDD081
WRX 2.0L DIT	2016	30919AE551.pak	30919AE551	30919AE550	11D4093E	K1FDD080

SERVICE PROCEDURE/INFORMATION

Step 1:

Reprogram the TCM using the SSMIV following the normal FlashWrite procedure.

NOTE: SOA now highly recommends connecting the Midtronics GR8 Diagnostic Battery Charger to the vehicle and utilizing the Power Supply Mode feature anytime a vehicle control module is being reprogrammed. 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 the Power Supply Mode, and have the battery voltage stabilized and ready for reprogramming.

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 Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA).

If the GR8 indicates the vehicle's battery must be charged, charge the battery using the GR8 before proceeding to reprogram the vehicle while using the Power Supply Mode.
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.

Step 2:

Using the SSMIV, clear the AT Learning Data using the following procedure:

Start > Diagnosis > Vehicle Selection > Each System > Transmission > Work Support > Clear AT Learning Data.
Click "YES" and when "Execute Clear AT Learning" is displayed, click "YES" again.
Turn the ignition OFF, wait at LEAST 30 seconds then turn the ignition back ON. At this point, the AT Temp light will start blinking; 4 times in 2 seconds to signify the Clear AT Learning procedure has completed successfully. If the AT Temp light does not flash as described, repeat Step 2 again from the beginning.
Step 3:

Using the SSMIV, perform the AT Learning Control following the procedure outlined in the applicable Service Manual.

WARRANTY/CLAIM INFORMATION

For vehicles within the Basic New Car Limited or Powertrain Warranty period or covered by a Subaru Added Security Powertrain, Classic or Gold plan, this repair may be submitted using the following claim information:

LABOR DESCRIPTION	LABOR OPERATION #	FAIL CODE	LABOR TIME
TCM Reprogramming, Clear AT Learning and Perform Learning Control	A860-732	MJZ-48	0.7

IMPORTANT: The NEW Calibration Identification number (CID) for any newly-installed programming (as confirmed from the actual control module AFTER installation) MUST be noted on the repair order as this information is required for claim submission.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS:

SOA strongly discourages the printing and/or local storage of service information as previously released information and electronic publications may be updated at any time.
Always check for any open recalls or campaigns anytime a vehicle is in for servicing.
Always refer to STIS for the latest service information before performing any repairs.