NHTSA ID Number: 11008262
Manufacturer Communication Number: 15-316-24R
TSB/Document Date: 2024-10-02
Summary
This bulletin announces the procedures required to reprogram the DCM (Data Communication Module) in Gen1 Subaru
vehicles in response to the 3G network sunsetting.
ATTENTION:
GENERAL MANAGER
q
PARTS MANAGER
q
CLAIMS PERSONNEL
q
IMPORTANT - All
Service Personnel
Should Read and
Initial in the boxes
provided, right.
SERVICE MANAGER
q
© 2024 Subaru of America, Inc. All rights reserved.
SERVICE BULLETIN
APPLICABILITY:
SUBJECT:
2016-18MY Legacy & Outback
2016-18MY Impreza
2016-18MY Crosstrek
2016-18MY Forester
2017-18MY WRX/STI
NUMBER: 15-316-24R
DATE:
02/27/24
REVISED
09/10/24
Gen1 Telematics DCM Reprogramming for 3G Sunset
INTRODUCTION:
This bulletin announces the procedures required to reprogram the DCM (Data Communication
Module) in Gen1 Subaru vehicles in response to the 3G network sunsetting. The reprogramming
enables enrollment in Starlink Telematics remote services. If a customer requests Starlink enrollment
in a Gen1/3G equipped vehicle, refer to the information outlined in this bulletin.
IMPORTANT: The following vehicles DO NOT require reprogramming to enroll in Starlink
Telematics. The DCM will require replacement on the following models.
•
Impreza MT with Push-Button Start
•
WRX/STI MT with Push-Button Start
Refer to the applicable Service Manual regarding DCM replacement: ENTERTAINMENT &
MONITORING > Data Communication Module
PAK FILE APPLICABILITY:
Starting DCM Software Version
File Description
Decryption Keyword
DCM_05.00.10 or 05.00.17
86229DCM01-1.pak
4F3D5B8E
DCM_05.00.22 or 05.00.30
86229DCM01-2.pk2
3B7ED9D2
DCM_06.03.17_20191029
86229DCM02.pk2
D0F868F1
CAUTION: VEHICLE SERVICING PERFORMED BY UNTRAINED PERSONS COULD
RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY TO THOSE PERSONS OR TO OTHERS.
Subaru Service Bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians ONLY. They
are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur in some vehicles,
or to provide information that could assist in the proper servicing of the vehicle. Properly
trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to
do the job correctly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that this
Service Bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition.
Subaru of America, Inc. is
ISO 14001 Compliant
ISO 14001 is the international standard for
excellence in Environmental Management
Systems. Please recycle or dispose of
automotive products in a manner that is friendly
to our environment and in accordance with all
local, state and federal laws and regulations.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 1 of 30
SERVICE PROCEDURE / INFORMATION:
IMPORTANT: Confirm the following prior to proceeding with any reprogramming.
•
Confirm Subaru Select Monitor (SSM) has communication with the DCM and no DTCs are
present in the Telematics system.
•
Review the information supplied in the Appendix A section of this bulletin prior to proceeding
with any reprogramming.
•
Record the subscription status information prior to proceeding with any reprogramming. This
information is required when reprogramming is completed.
SOFTWARE VERSION VERIFICATION:
Using the SSM, verify and record the current DCM software status. Using the work support function,
read the “Software Information” data monitor.
Is the current software version DCM_06.00.17_20190816?
YES- The DCM has the latest version. Reprogramming is not required.
NO- Confirm the next course of action and applicable software file by referring to the
table below.
Current DCM Software Version
Next Step
Applicable Software File
DCM_05.00.10 or 05.00.17
Proceed to Step 1 of Phase 1.
86229DCM01-1.pak
DCM_05.00.22 or 05.00.30
Proceed to Step 1 of Phase 2.
86229DCM01-2.pk2
DCM_06.03.17_20191029
(Rare Cases)
Phase 1 and 2 reprogramming is
complete. Proceed to Step 1 of Phase 3.
86229DCM02.pk2
Follow the specific instructions for Phase 1 -3 reprogramming based on the starting DCM software
version. Each phase involves selecting the appropriate file and initiating the reprogramming process
through the SSM tool.
CAUTION: Installing the incorrect file will damage the DCM and void all Warranty. ALWAYS
confirm the software version and follow the correct course of action.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 2 of 30
PHASE 1: REPROGRAMMING INTERMEDIATE 86229DCM01-1.PAK (IF THE CURRENT
SOFTWARE VERSION IS 05.00.10 OR 05.00.17):
IMPORTANT: Due to the duration of each reprogramming procedure and consecutive
reprogramming file transfers required to complete this 3G Sunset reprogramming update, a Subaruapproved Denso SSM cable is STRONGLY recommended. Cables from other manufacturers may not
meet data transfer rate and interference shielding requirements to ensure error-free data transmission
during reprogramming.
CAUTION: Ensure the Midtronics GR8 / Midtronics DCA-8000 set to Power Supply Mode is
connected to the vehicle, the parking brake is engaged, ignition is in the “ON” position, the engine
is OFF, the shift selector in NEUTRAL and the wheels are blocked. This must be done to ensure the
power supplied to the DCM is not turned off. If this step is not performed, the CAN will power down
the DCM during the reflash, and the reprogramming will fail, resulting in irreparable damage.
FOR KEY START VEHICLES:
•
Turn the ignition key ON (engine OFF).
•
Depress the brake pedal and move the Shift Lever into NEUTRAL.
•
Leave the ignition ON.
FOR VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH KEYLESS ACCESS AND PUSH-BUTTON START:
•
Without touching the brake pedal, press the Push Button Ignition Switch twice to put the
ignition system is in IG ON mode (Engine OFF).
•
Depress the brake pedal and move the Shift Lever into NEUTRAL.
•
Leave the ignition ON.
CRITICAL: DO NOT leave the vehicle in park! Doing so will damage the DCM requiring
replacement.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 3 of 30
1. Connect the SDS Notebook and DSTi. Select FlashWrite2 from the SDS Notebook GUI screen.
2. Once FlashWrite 2 opens, select DCM from the Vehicle Spec drop-down.
a) Complete entering the Vehicle Spec information.
b) Click and select the Pak file 86229DCM01-1.pak intermediate image in FlashWrite.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 4 of 30
3. CAUTIONS will be displayed. Check the notices and click on “NEXT.”
CAUTION: In the screenshot above, the on-screen directions indicate leaving the vehicle in PARK;
doing this will cause the reflash procedure to FAIL. The vehicle MUST BE LEFT IN NEUTRAL
for the entire reflash procedure. Reference page #3 above for all the vehicle conditions required for
reprogramming.
4. Select the reprogramming device and click “OK.”
5. Click on “Pass Thru.”
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 5 of 30
6. Confirm the ignition is “ON” and the shift selector is NEUTRAL.
a) Turn on the ignition switch and click on ‘Next.’
b) Pass-through preparation is completed; click on Next to continue.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 6 of 30
7. Enter the Decryption Keyword from the table above (4F3D5B8E) and click “Next.”
8. Click on “Execute.”
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 7 of 30
9. Reprogramming will begin. Please wait.
NOTE: Pay close attention to the start of the status bar progression. Failures may occur at the
beginning of the procedure. Once progress is at 5%, reprogramming should continue trouble-free
until 100% complete. The update may take up to 60 minutes to complete.
10. CRITICAL STEP: After reprogramming, always put a CVT-equipped vehicle in PARK
and ensure the ignition is turned OFF. A prompt to switch the ignition OFF will be
displayed. DO NOT CLICK OK UNTIL THE VEHICLE IS IN PARK AND THE
IGNITION IS SWITCHED OFF.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 8 of 30
NOTE: For CVT-equipped vehicles with push-button start:
•
WITHOUT TOUCHING THE BRAKE PEDAL, push the start button (once).
•
Move the selector into Park.
•
Push the start button again to switch the vehicle OFF.
•
WAIT 30 SECONDS and click OK.
11. CRITICAL STEP: WAIT 30 seconds, cycle the ignition key or push-button start from OFF to
ON, then click “Next.”
CRITICAL: Wait at least a full 5 minutes before proceeding from this point. During this
waiting period, “repartitioning” is taking place in the DCM and cannot be interrupted. Do
not attempt any other functions during this time (e.g., switching the ignition off, starting
another update, using the SSM to check DCM status, Opening the door(s), etc.).
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 9 of 30
12. “Reprogramming is now complete” is displayed. Click on “Finish.”
13. With the vehicle in Park and the ignition on:
a) Confirm SSM and DCM communication by retrieving the current software version.
b) Click “Each System” on the left-hand menu.
c) Select “Telematics” from the Systems List.
d) Click “Work Support” on the left-hand menu.
e) Select “Software Information” from the Work Support Items List.
f) Record the current version of the software on R.O. for reference.
i. After successful retrieval of the software version, proceed to Step 14.
NOTE: If SSM cannot communicate with DCM, DCM DTCs are current, or the DCM software
version cannot be retrieved, contact Techline for assistance before proceeding.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 10 of 30
14. END OF PHASE 1 REPROGRAMMING. Proceed to Step 1: Phase 3: Reprogramming on
page 18.
PHASE 2: REPROGRAMMING INTERMEDIATE 86229DCM01-2.PK2 (CURRENT SOFT-
WARE VERSION OF DCM IS 05.00.22 OR 05.00.30):
IMPORTANT: Due to the duration of each reprogramming procedure and consecutive
reprogramming file transfers required to complete this 3G Sunset reprogramming update, a Subaruapproved Denso SSM cable is STRONGLY recommended. Cables from other manufacturers may not
meet data transfer rate and interference shielding requirements to ensure error-free data transmission
during reprogramming.
CAUTION: Ensure the Midtronics GR8 / Midtronics DCA-8000 set to Power Supply Mode is
connected to the vehicle, the parking brake is engaged, ignition is in the “ON” position, the engine
is OFF, the shift selector in NEUTRAL and the wheels are blocked. This must be done to ensure the
power supplied to the DCM is not turned off. If this step is not performed, the CAN will power down
the DCM during the reflash, and the reprogramming will fail, resulting in irreparable damage.
FOR KEY START VEHICLES:
•
Turn the ignition key ON (engine OFF).
•
Depress the brake pedal and move the Shift Lever into NEUTRAL.
•
Leave the ignition ON.
FOR VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH KEYLESS ACCESS AND PUSH-BUTTON START:
•
Without touching the brake pedal, press the Push Button Ignition Switch twice to put the
ignition system is in IG ON mode (Engine OFF).
•
Depress the brake pedal and move the Shift Lever into NEUTRAL.
•
Leave the ignition ON.
CRITICAL: DO NOT leave the vehicle in park! Doing so will damage the DCM requiring
replacement.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 11 of 30
1. Connect the SDS Notebook and DSTi. Select FlashWrite2 from the SDS Notebook GUI screen.
2. Once FlashWrite 2 opens, select DCM from the Vehicle Spec drop-down.
a) Complete entering the Vehicle Spec information.
b) Click and select the PK2 file 86229DCM01-2.pk2 intermediate image in FlashWrite.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 12 of 30
3. Enter the Decryption Keyword from the table above (3B7ED9D2) and click “OK.”
4. Turn the ignition ON and Click ‘OK’ to start the reprogram.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 13 of 30
c) The part numbers before and after reprogramming will be displayed. Click ‘OK.’
NOTE: This screen image is an EXAMPLE and may not represent the installed part number. These
values will be the same before and after any reprogramming. The Screen will always indicate
“Forester” no matter what model or model year is being reprogrammed.
d) A CAN reprogramming progression bar will appear and start incrementing toward 100%. The
update may take up to 60 minutes to complete.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 14 of 30
e) CRITICAL STEP: After reprogramming, always put a CVT-equipped vehicle in PARK and
ensure the ignition is turned OFF. A prompt to switch the ignition OFF will be displayed.
DO NOT CLICK OK UNTIL THE VEHICLE IS IN PARK AND THE IGNITION IS
SWITCHED OFF.
NOTE: For CVT-equipped vehicles with push-button start:
•
WITHOUT TOUCHING THE BRAKE PEDAL, push the start button (once).
•
Move the selector into Park.
•
Push the start button again to switch the vehicle OFF.
•
WAIT 30 SECONDS and click OK.
f) CRITICAL STEP: FlashWrite will display the banner message “Please wait about 30 seconds
until Unit turns off”. This banner page has a built-in timer and will NOT continue until 30
seconds have passed and the DCM has safely shut down. There is no way to verify the DCM
has shut down except to wait to ensure the full 30 seconds have passed. The next screen, e)
shown below, will display automatically.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 15 of 30
g) A prompt for toggling the ignition to ON will be displayed. Click on ‘OK’
h) FlashWrite will display the banner message “Please wait a moment.”
CRITICAL: Wait at least a full 5 minutes before proceeding from this point. During this
waiting period, “repartitioning” is taking place in the DCM and cannot be interrupted. Do
not attempt any other functions during this time (e.g., switching the ignition off, starting
another update, using the SSM to check DCM status, Opening the door(s), etc.).
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 16 of 30
i) FlashWrite will display the banner message “Re-program was completed. Turn OFF the Ignition
Switch.”
5. Verify the new DCM software version:
j) Confirm SSM and DCM communication by retrieving the current software version.
k) Click “Each System” on the left-hand menu.
l) Select “Telematics” from the Systems List.
m) Click “Work Support” on the left-hand menu.
n) Select “Software Information” from the Work Support Items List.
o) Record the current version of the software on the RO for reference.
i. Successful retrieval of DCM software version? Proceed to Step 6 below.
ii. If SSM cannot communicate with DCM, DCM has current DTC(s), or the DCM software
version cannot be retrieved, contact Techline for assistance before proceeding.
6. END OF PHASE 2 REPROGRAMMING. Proceed to Step 1: Phase 3: Reprogramming Gen1
VoLTE 86229DCM02.pk2 on the next page.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 17 of 30
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TSB/Document ID: 15-316-24R
Replacement Service Bulletin Number:
MFR Communication Date: 2024-09-10
MFR Internal Campaign ID/Software Version:
Communication Type: Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
NHTSA Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
MFR Component System:
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