Innova SDS50 SDS-Tech: Battery Reset

Purpose

To guide you on how to perform Battery Reset function while using the Innova SDS50 SDS-Tech Tablet Scan Tool.

Introduction

The car battery is a crucial component of the vehicle's electrical system as it enables the car to start and powers its accessories. With advancements in technology, batteries now have sensors and other components that make them more efficient. Whenever the battery's lifespan ends or it is disconnected during repairs, it is essential to reset the Engine Control Module (ECU) that monitors the battery. This is done to ensure that the new battery's operational parameters are learned and that the Battery Function Light does not turn ON.

With Battery Reset, you can view the procedures for resetting the battery monitor system following battery replacement or disconnection during repairs. In the case of Audi/Volkswagen vehicles, it is crucial to reset or register the ECU when replacing the battery with a different ‘Ah’ value to ensure proper recognition and control. This article provides a guide on how to perform the Battery Reset function using the Innova SDS50 SDS-Tech Tablet Scan Tool on a 2016 Audi A4 when replacing or disconnecting the battery during repairs.

Condition

The Battery Function Light is ON in your dashboard. It means you need to check the battery voltage, or in our case, you need to perform a ‘Battery Reset’ function with the Scan Tool.

Procedure

Step 1 - Connect Innova SDS50 SDS-Tech Tablet Scan Tool to the vehicle and select 'Workshop Tools' function

First, connect the Innova SDS50 SDS-Tech Tablet Scan Tool to your vehicle via the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) connector to retrieve the vehicle's information, such as Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and model.

Then, select the function 'Workshop Tools'.

Step 2 – Select the ‘Battery Reset’ function

The Innova SDS50 SDS-Tech Tablet Scan Tool offers a range of features, including 16 Service Reset functions as illustrated in the image. To initiate the procedure for resetting the Battery system, you can choose the 'Battery Reset' function from the list.

The Scan Tool displays the ‘Battery Reset Procedures’ and the ‘OBD Battery Reset’ function as in the image.

NOTE: The name of the ‘OBD Battery Reset’ function is different from the other manufacturers, years, and models. For BMW vehicles for example, the 'Battery Replacement Registration' function corresponds to the 'OBD Battery Reset' function.

Choose the desired function to enter and execute the Battery Reset function.

1. Battery Reset Procedure

To access the ‘Battery Reset Procedures’ function, select the ‘Battery Reset Procedures’ item on the Battery Reset function list.

Upon accessing the Battery Reset Procedures menu, you will find General Information and specific procedures to be followed for Battery Disconnection Precautions, Battery Connection Precautions, and Battery Connection Procedures. Simply select the procedure you want to view. Follow the provided instructions to complete the process.

When you have finished viewing the retrieved information, press ‘Back’ button to return to the ‘Battery Reset Procedures’ menu. After that select the other item to view additional procedures.

When you have finished viewing all desired procedures, press ‘Back’ to return to the ‘Workshop Tools’ menu.

NOTE: The 'Battery Reset’ procedure is different from other manufacturers.

2. OBD Battery Reset

	To access the ‘OBD Battery Reset’ function, select the ‘Battery Replacement Registration’ item on the Battery Reset function list.
	As previously mentioned, modern batteries require a Monitoring System to keep track of their operation. Thus, it is essential to select the appropriate Battery Monitoring System on your vehicle, such as the '[19] Gateway' system on the 2016 Audi A4, to enable the function to learn the value of the new battery.
	To access the reset function, choose the 'Battery Adaptation' item.
	The Scan Tool will then display some basic information about the previously installed battery from the memory of the Battery Monitor System in the vehicle. To proceed to the next step, select the 'Next' button.
	Once you have selected the 'Next' button in the previous step, the Battery Monitor System will prompt you to input some basic information about the new battery for it to relearn. The initial information required is the battery capacity, which you can input. To proceed to the next screen, select the 'Next' button.
	Once you have entered the battery capacity, select the 'Next' button to proceed to the next step. Then, follow the instructions to complete the process of inputting the required information.
	Once you have entered all the required information into the Scan Tool. The Scan Tool will write the new value in the ECU, then it will display the results as shown in the image, and the Battery System Monitor will turn off the Battery Function Light.

Summary

If you replace a sensor, component, or battery in a modern vehicle, the control module might trigger the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL). Additionally, the new part may not synchronize with the stored value in the ECU, causing the vehicle to run in 'Limp home' mode. To prevent this from happening, you can use a Scan Tool to reset or relearn the value of the new part. This procedure is applicable to the 'Battery Reset' function in the 2016 Audi A4 when using the Innova SDS50 SDS-Tech Tablet Scan Tool, which also supports several other manufacturers.

Reference Video