GM Bulletin No.: 16001
Date: October 2015

Service Bulletin
SERVICE UPDATE
SUBJECT:

Service Update for Inventory Vehicles Only
Surge Sensation
Expires October 31, 2016

MODELS:

2016 Chevrolet Volt

This service update involves vehicles in dealer inventory only and will expire October 31, 2016.
PURPOSE
This bulletin provides a service procedure to reprogram the power inverter module with an active
damping calibration on certain 2016 model year Chevrolet Volt vehicles. These vehicles may
experience a light surge “chuggle” sensation while driving in charge sustaining mode (battery
depleted) at speeds of 35-65 mph (55-105 kmh).
This service procedure should be completed on involved vehicles currently in dealership
inventory as soon as possible but no later than October 31, 2016, at which time this bulletin
will expire.
VEHICLES INVOLVED
All involved vehicles are identified by VIN in the Global Warranty Management System –
Investigate Vehicle History Application. Dealership technicians should always check this site to
confirm vehicle involvement prior to beginning any required inspections and/or repairs. It is
important to routinely use this tool to verify eligibility because not all similar vehicles may be
involved regardless of description or option content.
Additionally, a list of involved vehicles currently in dealer inventory can be found in GlobalConnect,
under Departments, Service, Field Action Inventory Reports (US) or attached to the
GlobalConnect message (Canada) used to release this bulletin. Customer vehicles that return for
service, for any reason, and are still covered under the vehicle's base warranty should also be
checked for vehicle eligibility.
PART INFORMATION
No parts are required for this procedure
SERVICE PROCEDURE
Note:


DO NOT program a control module unless directed to by a service procedure or a service
bulletin. If the ECU is not properly configured with the correct calibration software, the
ECU will not control all of the vehicle features properly.

Copyright 2015 General Motors. All Rights Reserved.

Page 2

October 2015

Bulletin No.: 16001



Ensure the programming tool is equipped with the latest software and is securely
connected to the data link connector. If there is an interruption during programming,
programming failure or ECU damage may occur.



Stable battery voltage is critical during programming. Any fluctuation, spiking, over
voltage or loss of voltage will interrupt programming. Install the EL-49642 SPS
programming support tool to maintain system voltage. If not available, connect a fully
charged 12 V jumper or booster pack disconnected from the AC voltage supply. DO NOT
connect a battery charger.



Turn OFF or disable systems that may put a load on the vehicles battery such as; interior
lights, exterior lights (including daytime running lights), HVAC, radio, etc.



During the programming procedure, follow the SPS prompts for the correct ignition switch
position.



Clear DTCs after programming is complete. Clearing powertrain DTCs will set the
Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) system status indicators to NO.

To program a replacement or an existing ECU, perform the following procedure.
1.

Install EL-49642 SPS programming support tool.

2.

Access the Service Programming System (SPS) and follow the on-screen instructions.

3.

On the SPS Supported Controllers screen, select T6 Power Inverter Module – Programming
and follow the on-screen instructions.

4.

On the SPS Supported Controllers screen, select Z1 Immobilizer Learn – Setup and follow
the on-screen instructions.

5.

At the end of programming, choose the "Clear All DTCs" function on the SPS screen.

6.

Complete the Solenoid Valve Characterization Reprogramming procedure in SI after
successful ECU programming.

WARRANTY TRANSACTION INFORMATION
Submit a transaction using the table below. All transactions should be submitted as a ZFAT
transaction type, unless noted otherwise.
Labor
Code
9101827

Description
Drive Motor Power Inverter Module Reprogramming with SPS

Labor
Time
0.4

Net
Item
N/A

DEALER PROGRAM RESPONSIBILITY
Dealers must take the steps necessary to ensure that the service update correction has been
made to all involved vehicles in dealer inventory before selling or dealer-trading the vehicle, but
no later than October 31, 2016.
GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that
may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the tools,
equipment, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to
your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

We Support
Voluntary Technician
Certification

Alert Details

Page 1 of 1

16001 – Service Update Bulletin - Surge Sensation
Updated Date: Oct 09, 2015 14:40 ET

GM CUSTOMER CARE AND AFTERSALES
DCS3802
URGENT - DISTRIBUTE IMMEDIATELY
Date:

October 09, 2015

Subject:

16001 – Service Update Bulletin
Surge Sensation

Models:

2016 Chevrolet Volt

To:

All Chevrolet Dealers

Attention:

General Manager, Service Advisor, Service Manager, Parts and
Service Director, Parts Manager, New Vehicle Sales Manager,
and Warranty Administrator

General Motors is releasing Service Update Bulletin 16001 today. The total number of U.S. vehicles involved is 1,845. Please see the attached bulletin for details.
All vehicles are in-transit to dealerships and should be programmed as soon as they arrive at the dealership.
Global Warranty Management (GWM)
The "Investigate Vehicle History" (IVH) screen will be updated October 13, 2015. Please hold all claims until VINs appear in IVH. A list of involved vehicles is attached to this message.
Please note due to ongoing efforts to globalize the General Motors recall process, a new numbering system has been initiated. Recall 16001 is the first field action affected by this change.
Bulletin.pdf

VIN list.xlsx

About this Alert
Reference Number: GCUS-3-313
Published to: Home Page
Version: 1.0
Alert Type: Service Update
Original Published Date: Oct 09, 2015 14:40 ET
Expires: Dec 08, 2015 0:40 ET
Contact : [email protected]

https://dealer.autopartners.net/portal/uscontent/alerts/Pages/GCUS-3-313.aspx

10/9/2015