Engine Controls - Various Concerns Using E85 Gasoline
Technical Bulletin01 12 17
June 20, 2012
2029281 **Supersedes T.B. V011216 dated May 25, 2012 to further explain enhanced
pedal vs. standard pedal.**
Vehicle Information
Condition
Update Programming, Shift Improvements, Various Customer Concerns when Using E85 Gasoline
Shift improvements, and/or MIL illumination, and/or long engine cranking times while using E85, with or without "Enhanced Accelerator Pedal Operation".
Note:
This bulletin only applies to vehicles built before March 15, 2012.
Technical Background
Note:
There will be two software packages to choose from. Both software updates will fix all symptoms/conditions listed. One will contain an enhanced accelerator pedal operation and one will not. Refer to the "Symptoms/Conditions" for a detailed description of the changes. Be sure to consult with the Customer on what software version they prefer, Enhanced Pedal or Standard Pedal. Once the software choice is programmed it is a permanent change. **Vehicles built after Feb 1st, 2012 will only show the enhanced pedal as an available update.**
Note:
For unsold vehicles make sure that the Enhanced Pedal software is applied. DO NOT apply the Standard Pedal software to the unsold vehicles. **The enhanced pedal feature only reduces accelerator pedal range and does not affect transmission shift points or fuel economy.**
Customer may comment on one or more of the following symptoms:
Transmission:
Harsh 1-3 Upshift while operating in Economy (ECO) mode.
Harsh 2-3 upshift while operating in normal mode.
There is another software choice available, in addition to addressing all the symptom/conditions listed. This new version of software, called Enhanced Pedal, has an update to the accelerator pedal operation. This change when applied, will make the vehicle more responsive, with less pedal input, and also take less effort to maintain a constant cruising speed. Be sure to consult with the Customer on what software version they prefer, Enhanced Pedal or Standard Pedal. Once the software choice is programmed it is a permanent change.
Drivability:
Long crank times after an overnight soak when temperatures are between 14° F and 41° F (-10° C to 5° C). This condition is noticeable when E85 fuel is being used. Tugging or a fish bite sensation while driving down the road under a very light throttle at a steady state. This is most noticeable when temperatures are between 32° F and 86° F (0° C and 30° C).
MIL Illumination:
Upon further investigation the Technician may find that any of the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's) have been set:
Tip:
This bulletin applies to vehicles built before March 15, 2012.
^ StarMOBILE UPDATE PROGRAMMING FILES FOR THIS BULLETIN MUST BE RETRIEVED FROM THE
INTERNET.
^ StarMOBILE SOFTWARE LEVEL MUST BE AT RELEASE 10.01 OR HIGHER FOR THIS BULLETIN.
^ StarMOBILE STANDALONE MODE OR StarMOBILE DESKTOP CLIENT MAY ALSO BE USED TO PERFORM THIS PROCEDURE.
Production Solution
Improved PCM software has been introduced in production as of March 15, 2012.
Service
Diagnosis
Using a StarMOBILE with ElsaWeb and the appropriate Diagnostic Procedures, verify all engine systems are functioning as designed. If DTC's are present record them on the repair order and repair as necessary before proceeding further with this bulletin.
Repair Procedure
Note:
Install a battery charger to ensure battery voltage does not drop below 13.2 volts. Do not allow the charging voltage to climb above 13.5 volts during the programming process.
If this reprogramming process is interrupted / aborted, the reprogramming should be restarted.
^ Reprogram the Powertrain Control Module using the StarMOBILE with the latest software.
^ After PCM reprogramming, Clear any DTC's that may have been set in other modules due to reprogramming.
^ Clear the Variable Line Pressure (VLP) Counters, found in the Misc Function menu for the PCM ECU.
^ Perform the Quick Learn function, found in the Misc Function menu for the PCM ECU.
Warranty
Required Parts and Tools
Additional Information
All part and service references provided in this Technical Bulletin are subject to change and/or removal. Always check with your Parts Dept. and Repair Manuals for the latest information.