File in Section:

Service Bulletin

Bulletin No.:
Date:

PIC5520F
March, 2013

PRELIMINARY INFORMATION
Subject:

BAS+ (HYBRID) eAssist Generator Control And Battery Module (Powerpack) Exchange
Process And Order Instructions

Models:

2012 - 2013 Buick LaCrosse, Regal
2013 Chevrolet Malibu ECO
All equipped with eAssist (RPO HP6)

This PI was superseded to update parts and warranty information. Please discard PIC5520E.

The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in this PI.

Condition/Concern
As part of our ongoing quality improvement process, effective June 13, 2011 the Generator Control and Battery
Module, for the 2012 - 2013 Buick LaCrosse, Buick Regal and 2013 Chevrolet Malibu ECO with eAssist are being
placed on restriction through the Technical Assistance Center (TAC). After obtaining a case number and
authorization through TAC it will be necessary for the Dealer to call their local Electronic Service Center (ESC) to
order the Generator Control and Battery Module.

Parts Information
Year

Make

Model

Part Description

Part Number

2012

Buick

LaCrosse,
Regal

Generator Control and Battery Module
Replacement (Powerpack)

23102218 (supersedes
24259770)

2013

Buick

LaCrosse,
Regal

Generator Control and Battery Module
Replacement (Powerpack)

24267940 (supersedes
22948845)

2013

Chevrolet

Malibu Eco

Generator Control and Battery Module
Replacement (Powerpack)

23102218 (supersedes
24259770)

This P/I will explain the Generator Control and Battery Module Exchange Program for the eAssist Buick LaCrosse,
Buick Regal and Chevrolet Malibu ECO. It is expected that this exchange program will remain in effect for a
minimum of 12 months. Product teams continually seek valuable information for engineering improvements. This
exchange program is also designed to gain important feedback on this new high voltage Generator Control and
Battery Module assembly including service diagnostics, repair procedures, and accelerated root cause analysis for
continuous improvements.
Note: Please review all of the information provided below prior to contacting the Technical Assistance Center (TAC)
@ 877-446-8227 (U.S.) or in Canada 1-800-263-7740 (English) or 1-800-263-7960 (French) to review case details.
Note: Out-of-warranty/Customer Pay replacements or exchanges should be handled between the Dealer and their
local ESC. The dealer should advise the ESC that this is a customer pay job and is not covered under warranty.

Recommendation/Instructions
Important: DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REPROGRAM SOFTWARE OR CLEAR ANY DTCS PRIOR TO CAPTURING
DATA AND CALLING TAC.
Prior to calling TAC, please, completely follow diagnosis guidelines and obtain all required information as provided in
the Recommendation/Instructions portion of this PI. This will minimize the time spent on the telephone and prevent
the need for multiple calls to TAC. Guidelines for honoring this exchange program are being strictly enforced. To
obtain a replacement Generator Control and Battery Module, the servicing eAssist technician must provide TAC with
a detailed customer complaint, conditions, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and other useful information as outlined
below.
Danger: Always perform the High Voltage Disabling procedure prior to servicing any High Voltage
component or connection. Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and proper procedures must be followed.
The High Voltage Disabling procedure will perform the following tasks:
• Identify how to disable high voltage.
• Identify how to test for the presence of high voltage.
• Identify condition under which high voltage is always present and personal protection equipment (PPE) and
proper procedures must be followed.
Before working on any high voltage system, be sure to wear the following Personal Protection Equipment:
• Safety glasses with appropriate side shields when within 15 meters (50 feet) of the vehicle, either indoors or
outdoors.
• Certified and up-to-date Class "0" Insulation gloves rated at 1000V with leather protectors.
– Visually and functionally inspect the gloves before use.
– Wear the Insulation gloves with leather protectors at all times when working with the high voltage battery
assembly, whether the system is energized or not.
Danger: Ensure all High Voltage safety procedures are followed. Failure to follow the procedures exactly as
written may result in serious injury or death. Have an eAssist trained hybrid technician follow the diagnostic
procedures below prior to contacting TAC.
1. If DTCs are present and procedure gives direction to remove internal components; STOP, capture snapshot
stored data, and test drive vehicle with GDS2 and MDI and capture a snapshot of the Hybrid Powertrain Control
Module (HPCM) 14V Power Module and Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) Voltage menu data when
condition occurs. See 07-07-30-010 for correct GDS2 data collection. TAC may request that you email the
Session Log to them.
Note: DO NOT clear codes or attempt SPS programming prior to capturing data and calling TAC.
2. If DTCs are not present, refer to Hybrid/EV Controls - Symptoms - Hybrid Controls (Doc ID: 2596135) in SI.
3. If any diagnostic procedure gives direction to remove internal components, stop and call TAC, internal
components should not be removed at this time.
4. Upon review of the diagnosis, TAC will establish a case reference number and will provide instructions for
ordering an exchange battery assembly unit to your dealership if necessary.
5. Disable the high voltage system. Refer to High Voltage Disabling (Doc ID 2595458)
6. Remove the Generator Control and Battery Module Assembly. Refer to Generator Control and Battery Module
Replacement and Shipping Preparation (Doc ID 2667688).
7. Prior to contacting TAC, make sure you know:
– The name of the parts department manager or another contact in parts department who will be handling the
battery pack,
– The parts department fax number,
– The generator control and battery module serial number
8. The generator control and battery module serial number tag that is located on the side of the assembly cover.
Locate the tag and record the 16 digit identification number. The assembly ID number starts with a "20T"
indicator (See Photo Below). If the Generator Control and Battery Module is not out of the vehicle yet, you can
find the assembly ID number by installing the MDI and using GDS. Access the Battery Energy Control Module
and look under the identification information section and the sixteen digit number will be listed under the
parameter: Hybrid Battery Pack Identification Number. You will need to record the serial number and supply it to
TAC when ordering a battery.

2688041

9. Install the Generator Control and Battery Module Assembly. Refer to Generator Control and Battery Module
Replacement and Shipping Preparation (Doc ID 2667688).
10. Charge pack to at least 30% SOC by driving or idling the vehicle.
Note: The HVIC switch/ HV access cover should remain with the vehicle and not be returned with the battery
assembly. The MSD switch on the power pack should be zip tied in the open position and the high voltage 3 phase
cable connections and 12V cable connection should be covered with UL® listed, or equivalent, insulation tape rated
at a minimum of 600V for return shipping.
Danger: The high voltage (HV) battery must be protected when outside of the vehicle. This is why the battery
must be immediately placed inside the plastic shipping bag and the original shipping container.

STORAGE GUIDELINES:
1. Store the Generator Control and Battery Module flat.
2. Store the Generator Control and Battery Module in an environmentally protected area.
3. Maintain the Generator Control and Battery Module at room temperature.
4. Protect the Generator Control and Battery Module from exposure to liquids.
5. Protect the Generator Control and Battery Module from physical damage.
6. Store the Generator Control and Battery Module in a limited-access area.
CANADA ONLY - Parts Return Request (Core Return) - For dealers in Canada, the return of failed batteries will be
handled through the existing core return process. (Type 4 return)

SHIPPING PREPARATION:
1. Disable the high voltage at the generator control and battery module. Refer to High Voltage Disabling
2. Remove the Generator Control and Battery Module from the vehicle as outlined in Generator Control and
Battery Module Replacement in SI.
3. Tighten any fasteners that were loosened or removed during Generator Control and Battery Module removal to
the original torque specification.
4. Write the TAC case reference number on the generator control and battery module assembly in a visible
location.
5. Write the TAC case reference number on the repair order.
6. Ensure that tape with UL® listed, or equivalent, insulation tape rated at a minimum of 600v covers the high
voltage 3 phase cable connections and the 12 volt DC cable connection.
7. The Manual Service Disconnect (MSD) is properly retained in the open position with a zip tie.
8. Place the generator control and battery module into the plastic shipping bag and original shipping container.
9. Place the completed “BATTERY PRODUCT FEEDBACK FORM” (included in the container containing the new
Generator Control and Battery Module) along with a copy of the repair order with any technician comments,
inside the shipping container with the failed battery.
10. Secure shipping container to the shipping pallet with reusable straps.

2688033

SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS:
Canadian Dealers should follow the steps below to return a failed battery:
1. Submit a type 4 core return for the battery;
A core return tag along with a core return application will be generated at your servicing PDC and sent to you.
2. Place the core return tag on the outside of the battery container.
Note: Do not return the battery in any container other than the container that the new/refurbished battery was
delivered in.
3. Complete the required hazardous goods shipping paperwork (302C form).
4. Leave the labeled container along with the necessary shipping documents in the area within your dealership
which you would normally use for your material / core returns. The DDS carrier will pick up this battery core
along with your normal returns. If your dealership is not serviced by a DDS carrier you will need to return this
battery via LTL (similar to how you would return other parts.)
5. Do NOT return batteries to the ESC in Canada.
Note: Failure to return the battery will result in the dealership being debited the entire warranty claim (parts and
labor) as well as assessment of an Environmental Fee for the value of the failed pack. This environmental fee is
substantial ($3,000) and will only be assessed if the battery is not returned.
US ONLY – Parts Return Request (WPC) - A Special Parts Return Request will be faxed to you with proper shipping
instructions. Do NOT wait for the warranty claim to be paid before returning the failed used battery.
Please follow WPC guidelines below:
1. Do NOT send a Generator Control and Battery Module back without a Special Parts Return Request.
2. Do NOT send the Generator Control and Battery Module back to the ESC.
3. Do NOT return the Generator Control and Battery Module in any other container than the container that the
new/refurbished battery was delivered in. The removed unit must be returned complete in the original exchange
shipping container.
The Special Parts Request will provide a request number. This request number must be placed in the outside
shipping envelope along with the TAC Case number. Dealers need to place a new envelope inside the battery with
completed “BATTERY PRODUCT FEEDBACK FORM” including the TAC Case #, along with a copy of the Job Card
(RO) including the technician’s comments, DTCs, and diagnostics. It is recommended that this be taped to the
Generator Control and Battery Module inside the shipping container. Failure to place this information both outside
and inside the Generator Control and Battery Module shipping container may delay the processing of your return. Do
not ship a Generator Control and Battery Module back without an official WPC Request.

2698664

Note: Failure to return the battery by the due date will result in the dealership being debited the entire warranty
claim (parts and labor) as well as assessment of an environmental fee for the value of the failed pack. This
environmental fee is substantial ($3,000) and will only be assessed if the battery is not returned in the WPC time
frame.
Note: If you do not receive the WPC Special Part Request, contact Julie Cumo at 248-371-9939 (for French
speaking dealers call PQC 1-866-654-7654) to obtain the proper paper work in order to return the failed Generator
Control and Battery Module.

SHIPPING PREPARATION:
1. Disable the high voltage at the Generator Control and Battery Module. Refer to High Voltage Disabling.
2. Remove the Generator Control and Battery Module from the vehicle as outlined in Generator Control and
Battery Module Replacement in SI.
3. Tighten any fasteners that were loosened or removed during Generator Control and Battery Module removal to
the original torque specification.
4. Write the TAC case reference number on the Generator Control and Battery Module assembly in a visible
location.
5. Write the TAC case reference number on the repair order.
6. Ensure that tape with UL® listed, or equivalent, insulation tape rated at a minimum of 600v covers the high
voltage 3 phase cable connections and the 12 volt DC cable connection.
7. The Manual Service Disconnect (MSD) is properly retained in the open position with a zip tie.
8. Place the Generator Control and Battery Module into the plastic shipping bag and original shipping container
and attach the completed return shipping tag to the Generator Control and Battery Module.

SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Place a copy of the Special Parts Return Request, repair order with technician comments, and the completed
“BATTERY PRODUCT FEEDBACK FORM” and place into the plastic envelope. The bill of lading and customs
papers (for cross border shipments) should also be inserted into the plastic envelope. Remove the original
shipping label and attach the plastic envelope with the return shipping label on it to the container.
2. Secure shipping container to the shipping pallet with reusable straps.

2688033

3. Label the outside of the shipping container with the Part Return request number and the TAC case reference
number. Refer to the Corporate Bulletin Number 99-00-89-019 for detailed shipping information.
4. Contact UPS Freight 1-800-333-7400 for pick-up of removed battery. If lift gate service is necessary, please
request it at the time of arranging pick-up service.
5. Have the driver sign the bill of lading. Retain a copy of the signed bill of lading and attach your copy to the
original repair order. This will be your proof of returning the Drive Motor Battery.
6. Ship the Generator Control and Battery Module Third Party Prepaid Freight Collect with appropriate
paperwork to:
GM Warranty Parts Center
45 Northpointe Drive
Orion, MI 48359

PARTS INFORMATION:
No Part Number should be entered for exchange components. Applicable miscellaneous items should be added to
the part allowance amount and claimed in the Parts Cost column and not included in the Net Amount (DMN) column
of the warranty claim.

Warranty Information
For vehicles repaired under warranty use:
Labor Code

Description

Labor Time

Part Allowance

N5866

Generator Control and Battery Module
Replacement (Powerpack)

Use Published Labor
Operation Time

$250

Add

Administrative Allowance

.2 Hours

N/A

Add

Road Test - GDS2 Session Log

.3 Hours

N/A

Please follow this diagnostic or repair process thoroughly and complete each step. If the condition exhibited is
resolved without completing every step, the remaining steps do not need to be performed.