2023 Jeep Compass PCM Update for Starting & Charging Issues

Owners of the 2023 Jeep Compass equipped with a 2.0L I4 Turbo Diesel Engine with Engine Stop/Start (ESS), identified by Sales Code EBS, may experience various performance issues. Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 18-053-24, also released as Rapid Service Update (RSU) 24-093, details a solution for these concerns through a Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software update. This Jeep Compass PCM update is crucial for resolving the identified problems.

Symptoms

Customers may observe one or more of the following symptoms in their 2023 Jeep Compass:

• The vehicle not starting.
• The battery not charging properly.
• Specific warning messages displayed in the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC).

Verbatim Owner-Facing Warnings

Owners might see the following messages appear in their instrument cluster:

• "Engine Oil Temperature High"
• "Stop/Start Not Ready / Driver Seatbelt Unbuckled"

These messages indicate a potential issue that the Jeep Compass PCM update is designed to rectify.

Cause

The root cause of these operational issues and warning messages is identified as a software anomaly within the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

Diagnosis

When diagnosing these symptoms, technicians will use a Scan Tool, such as wiTECH, along with the diagnostic procedures available in DealerCONNECT/Service Library. The process involves verifying that all related systems are functioning correctly. If any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) or symptom conditions beyond those listed in the bulletin are present, they should be recorded and addressed before proceeding with the TSB. Technicians will also check if the customer's vehicle VIN is listed in the VIP system or on the RSU VIN list to confirm applicability. If the VIN is not on the list but the vehicle exhibits the described symptoms, the repair procedure should still be performed.

Repair Procedure Summary

The primary repair involves reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with the latest available software. This Jeep Compass PCM update is a straightforward software flash. The process includes:

1. Verifying if the vehicle's VIN is on the RSU list.
2. Checking if the PCM already has the latest software installed. If it does, the bulletin is considered complete, and Labor Operation 18-19-06-AF (Inspect PCM) is used to close the active RSU.
3. If the software is not current, the PCM is reprogrammed with the newest software version. If any issues arise during the flashing process with the wiTECH Diagnostic Application, a ticket should be submitted to the Helpdesk.
4. After the reprogramming, any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) that may have been set in any modules due to the process are cleared using the wiTECH application.

For claims, dealers should use Labor Operation 18-19-06-AG (Inspect and Reprogram PCM) if reprogramming is performed, or 18-19-06-AF (Inspect PCM) if only an inspection is needed and the software is already current. Failure Code CC (Customer Concern) should be used if the customer's reported symptoms match those described in the TSB, requiring the 3C's (customer's concern, cause, and correction) to be provided.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform this service, technicians will require a wiTECH diagnostic tool or an equivalent system capable of flashing vehicle modules.

Important Warnings

During the PCM reprogramming process, it is critical to install a battery charger to ensure the battery voltage remains stable. The voltage must not drop below 13.2 volts and should not climb above 13.5 volts. If the flash process is interrupted or aborted for any reason, it must be restarted.

Owner Action

If you own a 2023 Jeep Compass and are experiencing any of the mentioned symptoms, such as the vehicle not starting, the battery not charging, or seeing the "Engine Oil Temperature High" or "Stop/Start Not Ready / Driver Seatbelt Unbuckled" messages, you should contact your authorized Jeep dealer. This Jeep Compass PCM update is reimbursable under warranty provisions. Your dealer will be able to verify the applicability of TSB 18-053-24 (RSU 24-093) to your vehicle and perform the necessary software update.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11001561