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.
PHASE 3: REPROGRAMMING GEN1VOLTE 86229DCM02.PK2 (IF THE INTERMEDIATE DCM VERSION IS DCM_06.03.17_20191029):
REMINDER: Due to the duration of each reprogramming procedure and consecutive
reprogramming file transfers required to complete this 3G Sunset reprogramming update, using a
Subaru-approved Denso SSM cable is STRONGLY recommended. Cables from other manufacturers
may not meet data transfer rate and/or interference shielding requirements to ensure error-free data
transmission during reprogramming.
CAUTION: Ensure the Midtronics GR8 / Midtronics DCA-8000 in Power Supply Mode is
connected to the vehicle, the parking brake is engaged, the ignition is in the “ON” position, the
engine is OFF, the shift selector is 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; the update will fail and result in irreparable damage to the
DCM.
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 18 of 30
1. Connect 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 86229DCM02.pk2 intermediate image in FlashWrite.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 19 of 30
3. Enter the Decryption Keyword from the table above (D0F868F1) and click “OK.”
a) Turn the ignition switch ON and Click ‘OK’ to start the reprogram.
b) Part numbers before and after reflash will be displayed. Click ‘OK.’
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 20 of 30
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.
A CAN reprogramming progression bar will appear and start incrementing toward 100%. The update
may take up to 60 minutes to complete.
1. 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.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 21 of 30
b) CRITICAL STEP: FlashWrite will display the banner message “Please wait about 30
seconds until the 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
that 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.
c) The prompt for switching the ignition to ON will be displayed. Click on ‘OK.’
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 22 of 30
d) 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.).
e) FlashWrite will display the banner message “Re-program was completed. Turn OFF the
Ignition Switch.”
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 23 of 30
4. Verify the new DCM software version.
Mandatory Techline Call: Immediately after the successful completion of the DCM 3G
reprogramming, contact Techline. Provide the vehicle identification number (VIN) and confirm
the reprogramming has been completed. SIM Status Activation: Request Techline to activate
the SIM card associated with the DCM. Techline will confirm the successful activation before
proceeding.
a) Click “Each System” on the left-hand menu.
b) Select “Telematics” from the Systems List.
c) Click “Work Support” on the left-hand menu.
d) Select “Software Information” from the Work Support Items List.
e) Record the current version of the software on the RO for reference.
i. The final version of DCM software should be DCM_06.00.17_20190816.
1. If the final version is correct, proceed to Step 5 below.
2. If the final version is incorrect, record the DCM software version and contact
Techline.
END OF PHASE 3 REPROGRAMMING.
POST-REPROGRAMMING ACTIONS:
1. Mandatory Techline Call: Immediately after the successful completion of the DCM 3G
reprogramming, contact Techline. Provide the vehicle identification number (VIN) and
confirm the reprogramming has been completed.
2. SIM Status Activation: Request Techline to activate the SIM card associated with the
DCM. Techline will confirm the successful activation before proceeding.
3. Capacitive Discharge: Perform a capacitive discharge on the vehicle’s electrical system.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommended procedure for your specific model. This step
ensures the DCM resets and attempts to attach to the 4G network.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 24 of 30
4. Enrollment: Once the car is returned to the customer, the customer will wait five days
before contacting STARLINK to complete enrollment.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
Skipping the Techline call and SIM activation Step will prevent the DCM from connecting to
the 4G network, rendering related features unusable.
The capacitive discharge is critical to ensure the DCM recognizes the updated network
configuration.
Do not proceed with enrollment until the DCM is successfully connected to the 4G network.
CUSTOMER ENROLLMENT AND TELEMATICS VERIFICATION AFTER DCM
REPROGRAMMING:
ENROLLMENT IN A STARLINK SUBSCRIPTION PLAN:
•
Customer Commitment: Remind the customer that it is their responsibility to call the Starlink
Enrollment Center 5 days after returning the vehicle to complete enrollment and verify
operation.
•
MySubaru Account Confirmation: Review with the customer the importance of updating or
creating the MySubaru account associated with the VIN receiving the 3G reprogramming.
This step must be completed before contacting the Starlink Enrollment Center to expedite
enrollment.
•
Verification: Once the subscription is active, the customer will verify telematics operation
by completing an SOS call telling the call agent that they are completing a test call post-3G
reprogramming and enrollment. The customer can also request a remote door unlock to verify
all services are operating as expected.
TESTING TELEMATICS OPERATION:
•
SOS Call Test: Testing the SOS call functionality. Make sure the vehicle is in a safe location
before proceeding.
•
Initiate SOS Call: Ensure the GREEN TELEMATICS LED IS ILLUMINATED BEFORE
STARTING. DO NOT USE THE iButton FOR TESTING.
•
Verify Response: Monitor the response from the Starlink call center. Ensure the call connects
successfully and the call center agent can receive and understand the customer. The customer
can request a remote door unlock from the call agent to test the full functionality of the
telematics system.
•
Unexpected Results: Should the car fail to provision, the customer cannot complete the SOS
test call, or the remote door does not unlock as expected, SiriusXM will instruct the customer
to return to the retailer for additional diagnosis.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 25 of 30
CUSTOMER RETURNS TO RETAILER FOR TESTING REMOTE SERVICES (IF
APPLICABLE):
•
Explain Functionality: Briefly explain the remote services available with the chosen Starlink
subscription plan, such as vehicle lock/unlock, horns and lights, and location tracking.
•
Mobile App Setup: Assist the customer in downloading and setting up the Starlink mobile app
on their compatible device. Guide them through the login process using the newly created
account credentials.
•
Test Features: Demonstrate the various remote service features within the app, ensuring the
customer understands how to use them effectively. Test lock/unlock commands and location
tracking accuracy.
FINALIZATION:
•
Inform the Customer: Briefly explain the next steps for the customer, including any follow-up
instructions or reminders about their Starlink subscription and telematics features.
•
Return the Vehicle: Release the vehicle to the customer after confirming their understanding
of the telematics enrollment and functionality.
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
•
Always follow the specific guidelines and procedures outlined by Subaru or Starlink for
customer enrollment and telematics verification.
•
Maintain clear communication with the customer throughout the process, addressing any
questions or concerns they may have.
•
Document all steps taken and results observed during the telematics testing on the repair order
for future reference.
WARRANTY / CLAIM INFORMATION:
Credit for performing this reprogramming service will be based on submitting adequately completed
repair order information.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
•
Any labor performed in relation to the Data Communication Module Warranty Extension will
require the claim information supplied in TSB 15-317-24.
•
ONLY these Labor Operation numbers and Fail Code are to be used when submitting the
claim for this reprogramming service.
•
NEVER use the Labor Operation numbers and Fail Code from the Labor Time Guide.
•
Alternate transportation reimbursement (rental/loaner) or towing expenses may not be claimed
for this reprogramming service.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 26 of 30
Labor Description
Labor Operation #
Labor Time
3G SUNSET VOLTE SOFTWARE VERSION CHECK ONLY
A067-938
0.2
3G SUNSET VOLTE SOFTWARE DCM SOFTWARE UPDATE
A067-928*
1.9
3G SUNSET VOLTE SOFTWARE DCM SOFTWARE UPDATE
FAILURE / DCM REPLACEMENT
B067-904*
2.3
Fail Code
ZTX-43
Impreza MT with Push-Button Start & WRX/STI MT with Push-Button Start Only.
Labor Description
Labor Operation #
Labor Time
Fail Code
Claim
Type
3G SUNSET DCM REPLACEMENT
A067-941
0.5H
ZTY-43
PA
*Please note in the claim comments if the vehicle had an open WQZ-61R campaign, which will be
closed with either of these submissions.
** This operation number can only be claimed when a software update retry is performed/attempted.
An accurate punch count must be recorded for all software updates retry work. The Straight Time
(S.T.) Labor Time for operation number C067-919 is, at most, 2.0 hours.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
•
SOA strongly discourages the printing and/or local storage of service information as previously
released information and electronic publications may be updated at any time.
•
Always check for any open recalls or campaigns anytime a vehicle is in for servicing.
•
Always refer to STIS for the latest service information before performing any repairs.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 27 of 30
APPENDIX A (BATTERY CHARGING INFORMATION):
Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) highly recommends utilizing either the Subaru Midtronics DCA8000
Dynamic Diagnostic Charging System or the Subaru Midtronics GR8-1100 Diagnostic Battery
Charger to the vehicle in the Power Supply Mode feature anytime a vehicle control module is
being reprogrammed. Once the Midtronics charger is connected to the vehicle, if the battery is fully
charged, it will take less than three (3) minutes to boot-up the charger, select the Power Supply Mode,
and have the battery voltage stabilized and ready for reprogramming.
NOTES:
•
For instructions on using the Power Supply Mode, reference the applicable User Manual for
the Midtronics DCA-8000 Dynamic Diagnostic Charging System and the Midtronics GR81100 Diagnostic Battery Charger on STIS.
•
Confirm all electrical loads such as lights, audio, HVAC, seat heaters, and rear defroster are all
switched OFF before setting up the charger for Power Supply Mode.
•
Select the correct battery type (Enhanced Flooded, Flooded, Gel, AGM, or AGM Spiral).
•
Input the CCA which matches the vehicle’s battery. NOTE: OE and replacement batteries have
different CCA ratings. Always confirm the battery’s CCA rating before proceeding.
•
If using a DCA-8000 Dynamic Diagnostic Charging System, set the power supply voltage to
13.5 Volts.
•
DO NOT connect the DST-i or DST-010 until the Power Supply mode function has completed
its battery test mode and the Charging Voltage has dropped to and shows a steady 13.5 Volts
onthe display.
•
Once Power Supply Mode reaches a steady 13.5 Volts, connect the DST-i or DST-010 to the
OBD connector and proceed with initiating the normal FlashWrite reprogramming process.
•
Amperage will fluctuate based upon the vehicle’s demand for power. NOTE: If the voltage
rises beyond 14 Volts while programming is in process, the procedure will abort. This can
indicate a need to test or charge the vehicle battery before any further attempt at programming
is made.
•
ALWAYS set the power supply voltage to 13.5 Volts when using Power Supply Mode. NEVER
turn the ignition switch on when charging at voltages 15 Volts or higher.
REMINDER: If the DCA-8000 or GR8-1100 indicates the vehicle’s battery must be charged, charge
the battery fully before proceeding to reprogram the vehicle while using the Power Supply Mode.
NOTE: Control module failures resulting from battery discharge during reprogramming are not a
matter for warranty. Should any DTCs reset after the reprogramming update is performed, diagnose
per the procedure outlined in the applicable Service Manual.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 28 of 30
VERY IMPORTANT:
This information is applicable to the Subaru Midtronics DCA-8000 Dynamic Diagnostic Charging
System and the Subaru Midtronics GR8-1100 Diagnostic Battery Charger ONLY. It does not apply to
any other brand / type of “generic” battery charger whatsoever. ONLY the DCA-8000 and the GR81100 and their Power Supply Mode feature have been tested and approved by SOA.
APPENDIX B (TROUBLESHOOTING CONCERNS FOUND BEFORE UPGRADE):
Before initiating the 3G Sunset reprogramming, conduct a thorough system check to identify
potential issues with the Telematics system. These conditions may require addressing before
proceeding.
LED and DTC Checks:
1. Telematics LED RED: Stop the process immediately. Notify the customer and explain that
DTC repair is not included in the free upgrade. The reprogramming cannot proceed until the
Telematics system functions normally (green LED) and no DTCs are present.
2. Telematics LED RED with DTC(s) (except B2A0E): Follow step 1 above (DTC repair must be
addressed).
3. The telematics LED is NOT green, and no DTCs are present (except B2A0E or B2A0C). Stop
the process. Inform the customer about the malfunctioning Telematics system and the need for
repairs before continuing.
DTC B2A0E EXCEPTION:
•
This DTC may appear in older DCMs without a current hard fault. Clear the DTC and perform
an ignition cycle.
•
If the DTC resets as current, consider it a “hard” fault, and follow step 1 above.
•
If the DTC does not reset after an ignition cycle, proceed with Step 2 on page 3 of the primary
document.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 29 of 30
APPENDIX C (REPROGRAMMING FLOWCHART):
Bulletin Number: 15-316-24R; Revised: 09/10/24
Page 30 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:
MFR Component Subsystem:
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