Comment by jcgrillo
1 year ago
On some cars (recent VWs in particular) when you plug the battery back in you need to twiddle some settings in the computer otherwise the charging circuit will fry the battery prematurely. We've gotten ahead of our skis with this nonsense, time to rein it in.
This issue is notorious for BMW cars. You have to notify the ECU each time you install a new battery.
It's hard to imagine an interpretation of this behavior that doesn't involve manufacturers trying to punish independent mechanics and end users who service their own cars. Like, there's no way it's an "honest mistake", right?
BTW I have an AGM ("advanced glass mat") battery in my 1995 Toyota which has a completely analog charging system, and it doesn't get cooked, so it's not because there's something special about the battery.
Don't attribute to malice what can easily be explained by overstressed Systems Engineers trying to resolve multiple conflicting Requirements.
6 replies →
That's because BMW ECUs adapt to the lower voltage as the battery ages and instruct the alternator/charger to provide more current. Replace the battery and the ECU would cause it to be overcharged unless you notify it of the replacement. Yes it's an over-engineered system, but ... German car.
Sounds like an afterbender straightener architecture.
Ahhh, "program a new battery" $400 please.
Rein. It’s about controlling a horse, not an entire nation.
Thanks, I blame phone autocorrect
It's always champing at the bit