2021-2023 Nissan 12V Battery Testing Guidelines

Nissan Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) NTB23-049, issued on June 16, 2023, outlines critical procedural recommendations for performing 12V battery testing on in-service Nissan vehicles. This bulletin, classified as EL23-011, aims to standardize connection processes during testing. The primary goal is to reduce the number of incorrect "Test with DCA" and "Replace" results, ensuring more accurate battery diagnoses across all Nissan models from 2021 to 2023.

Symptoms and Potential Issues

Owners might experience premature battery failure or replacement due to improper testing and maintenance. If 12-volt batteries are allowed to discharge for an extended period, their lifespan can be significantly reduced, leading to customer dissatisfaction. Incorrect testing procedures can lead to unnecessary battery replacements, even when the battery is still functional.

Important Warnings for Owners

Nissan emphasizes several key warnings to ensure proper battery care and testing:

• Battery Discharge: "If 12 volt batteries are allowed to discharge for a prolonged period of time, battery life may be drastically reduced. This condition may lead to premature battery replacement and customer dissatisfaction."
• Engine Starting for Testing: "Dealers should discontinue the practice of starting an engine to see if the battery is 'good.'" Starting an engine with a low State Of Charge (SOC) battery can further damage it if not recharged immediately.
• Idle Charging: "Idling the engine to charge the battery is NOT recommended for most vehicles" as its effectiveness varies. However, for 2021 and newer Rogue (T33) and 2022 and newer Pathfinder (R53) models, idle charging can be used if the vehicle is properly prepared and in shipping mode with the extended storage switch confirmed.
• Cold Battery Testing: "Testing a 'cold' battery (below freezing) may result in incorrect test decisions." The DCA-8000 tool can warm a cold battery for more accurate testing.
• EFB/AGM Charging Safety: "To avoid the risk of death, severe personal injury or damage to the vehicle, do not use a battery charger that does not have an EFB specific charging profile." Similarly, for AGM batteries, a non-AGM diagnostic charge can cause damage.
• Charging Location: "To avoid the risk of death, severe personal injury or property damage, remove the battery from the vehicle and place it in a well-ventilated area before starting the charging cycle. Charging the battery while in the vehicle may cause battery acid to leak onto the vehicle and/or flammable gases to combust while charging."
• Negative Terminal Connection: When connecting testing tools, "DO NOT connect to the threaded stud for testing purposes." Instead, "Connect directly onto the battery terminal for testing purposes."

Recommended Testing Tools

Nissan recommends specific tools for accurate 12V battery testing:

• CPX-900: A hand-held testing tool, now an accepted option alongside or in place of the DSS-5000. Operating instructions are available at https://nissancpx900.midtronics.com/.
• DSS-5000: Another hand-held testing tool. Operating instructions are available at https://nissandss5000.midtronics.com/.
• DCA-8000: This stand-alone tool is now required for all warranty replacement decisions. It also functions as a more efficient charger for 12-volt lead-acid batteries. Operating instructions are at https://nissandca8000.midtronics.com/.

Proper Battery Connection Techniques

Accurate testing relies on establishing good connections. For hand-held tools, the positive lead should connect directly to the battery post or terminal. For the negative lead, connect directly to the battery post or a ground strap if equipped. It is crucial to avoid connecting the negative lead to any threaded studs, as this can lead to inaccurate readings. When using the DCA-8000, it is recommended to remove the battery from the vehicle and connect the tool directly to the battery posts for optimal testing.

Battery Maintenance for Stored Vehicles

For vehicles in storage or inventory, proper battery maintenance is essential to prevent discharge. Vehicles should be kept in "inventory-condition" (storage-mode) with transit mode and extended storage switch engaged to minimize battery drain. For vehicles stored on a dealer lot, the battery's State Of Charge (SOC) should be routinely checked every 30 days using the DSS-5000 or CPX-900, and charged with the DCA-8000 as needed.

Understanding Different Battery Types

Nissan vehicles are increasingly equipped with Enhanced Flooded Batteries (EFB) and Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries, which require specific testing and charging procedures. It's vital to verify the battery type to ensure correct tests are performed and to prevent damage to the battery or vehicle systems. EFBs require an equalization charge, and both EFB and AGM batteries need specialized charging profiles. Using a non-specific charger can lead to battery acid leaks or combustible gases. Technicians should check battery markings for designations like "EFB," "AGM," "VRLA," or consult the battery supplier if unsure.

Owner Action

If you own a 2021-2023 Nissan, including a Nissan Sentra, and are concerned about your 12V battery's health, ensure your service center is aware of and follows TSB NTB23-049. Discuss with your technician the specific battery type in your vehicle and the proper testing and charging procedures. Adhering to these guidelines will help ensure accurate diagnoses and prolong your battery's life, preventing premature replacements.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10239060