Unregistered users - please click here to register with NICOclub (free) and join the discussion about this article! More importantly, you'll become a member with the largest, most active Nissan & Infiniti community on the Internet!
Midtronics Testers
Enhanced software is now available for the Midtronics GR8-1200-NI (large) and EXP-800 (hand held) battery testers to support faster testing, new battery procedures and policy. Both testers now have the following features:
- • VIN print-outs (last eight characters of VIN if entered)
• Battery Codes for applicable tests
• Larger, clearer code print-outs to reduce data entry errors
• New tester function modes: “CHECK-IN”, “INVENTORY”, “DELIVERY”
• CCA/JIS input no longer required
• Test results include specific recommendations on printout
The Midtronics GR8-1200-NI primarily supports testing where charging may be required, and is still required for most customer warranty situations. However, with the new software, the GR8-1200-NI now features these customer-focused enhancements:
- • Decisions in 12 minutes or less
• If a battery tests “Good”, but requires charging beyond 12 minutes, the tester will show the time required to charge the battery
• “Customer Override” option after 12 minutes to enable the dealership to print a “Replace” BAT code in critical customer satisfaction situations
The GR8 and EXP-800 were released in 2008 as essential tools. This software update represents the first major software change to these tools and is also considered “essential”. Going forward, both Midtronics testers will be updated on a quarterly basis to ensure that the latest data is always available. If a quarterly update is missed, the tester will inform the user, and will cease functioning 30 days later, unless the update is performed. For 2011, a one-time charge of $695 plus tax will be charged to your non-vehicle account pursuant to the standard terms of your Dealer Sales and Service Agreement. This fee covers software updates for both Midtronics tools.
Over the past year, Infiniti has taken significant steps to improve the condition and State-Of-Charge (SOC) of vehicle 12V batteries when they are delivered to retailers. To further support overall customer satisfaction and retention, changes have been made to 12V vehicle battery warranty policy; vehicle delivery check-in procedures; retailer storage and PDI policy; customer-owned vehicle testing strategy and Midtronics tester software.
Please carefully review these changes below, as they affect all aspects of vehicle 12V batteries.
Vehicle Delivery Check-In
Beginning in June 2011, all new Infiniti vehicles delivered to Infiniti retailers will have a battery charge target of 12.5 volts or higher. Each vehicle’s 12v battery must be tested within 72 hours of vehicle receipt from Infiniti using the updated Midtronics tester in CHECK-IN mode. This battery check is part of the PDI checklist and is reimbursed as part of the PDI payment. Any battery found below specification must be recharged or replaced (as directed by the tester results) within 14 days from the wholesale billing date. During this time window only, Infiniti will now pay for charging a discharged battery. Claims for battery replacements later than 14 days after wholesale through 90 days following retail will suspend and will require FOM approval.
Battery Warranty
Original Equipment (OE) batteries on MY11 and newer vehicles are no longer covered under a separate warranty and no longer subject to proration. Instead, OE batteries are covered under the Basic Warranty Coverage provided for under the Infiniti New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Replacement batteries have separate warranty coverage. Other warranty terms, conditions and exclusions remain unchanged. See Warranty Information Booklet for details.
Retailer Storage
Once the vehicle is in retailer inventory, the condition of the battery becomes the responsibility of the retailer. Every 30 days (90 if disconnected) batteries should be checked using the Midtronics testers INVENTORY mode to ensure they are not losing charge while in inventory. Any batteries found to be below 12.4 volts SOC should be charged by idling or using a battery charger. As noted above, claims for battery replacements during this period will suspend and will require FOM approval.
Proper maintenance of vehicle 12v batteries will significantly enhance battery performance and durability, contributing to overall CSI and customer retention. Batteries that are allowed to fall below 12.4v SOC for extended periods during storage can be permanently damaged and may not improve once delivered to a customer.
PDI / Customer Delivery
At the end of the sales process, retailers are encouraged to test each vehicle 12v battery at the time of customer delivery using the Midtronics DELIVERY mode. Any battery found below 12.4v should be addressed before giving the car to the customer. If the SOC is between 12.0 and 12.4, the battery should be charged and confirmed “OK” using the EXP-800 or GR8 tester. Batteries that are below 12.0 volts at the time of customer delivery should be considered for replacement. The GR8 should be used to confirm the battery’s condition if there is any uncertainty about which action to take.
If you have any questions about this essential tool release, please contact your FOM
Service Support & Quality
Nissan North America