Electric Drive Sys. - Main & Starter Battery Maintenance
No. TSB-12-54-002DATE: February, 2012
MODEL: 2012 i-MiEV
SUBJECT:
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE MAIN DRIVE
AND STARTER BATTERIES - REVISED
This bulletin supercedes TSB-11-54-010, issued December; 2011, to change the instruction for Traction Battery storage charge level. Changes are italicized and indicated by asterisks and a black triangle.
PURPOSE
Maintaining the charging levels of the main drive lithium ion battery (traction battery) and the 12V auxiliary battery (starter battery) in electric vehicles is important for battery life and customer satisfaction. Over time battery charge may fall below minimum required levels for vehicles stored in dealer inventory. Special procedures should be used to ensure that both the traction battery and starter battery charge levels are maintained for stored vehicles.
^ The traction battery should be kept at a charge level of 3 segments displayed on the energy gauge located in the instrument panel. If traction battery voltage is not maintained battery life may be reduced.*
^ If the 12V starter battery voltage falls to 9.0V or lower the vehicle cannot be set to READY status (will not start) and battery life and efficiency may be reduced.
This TSB advises the correct procedure to maintain voltage levels during vehicle storage.
AFFECTED VEHICLES
2012 i-MiEV
PROCEDURE
Perform the following every 30 days for vehicles in dealer storage:
1. Ensure the energy level gauge in the instrument panel shows 3 segments. If it shows less than 3 segments charge the traction battery using regular charging (120V-240V) to 3 segments.
Regular charging of the traction battery will also charge the starter battery to the required level.
*
Complete the following steps ONLY If the traction battery DOES NOT require charging (above):
1. Set the parking brake and turn the electric motor switch to the START position until the READY indicator illuminates in the instrument panel.
!! IMPORTANT!! Ensure all electrical accessories (especially A/C and heater) are turned off.
2. Allow the 12V starter battery to charge from the traction battery for 30 minutes.
3. Inspect again in 30 days. *
4. !!IMPORTANT!!
TURN THE ELECTRIC MOTOR SWITCH OFF.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
This TSB supplies technical information only. Inventory maintenance is the dealer's responsibility. Dealers may not submit warranty claims for inventory maintenance.