New GM service policy?

[foghorn23]

I actually read about this on another GM board, but haven't seen anyone I know and trust verify it. According to what I read this new GM policy stated that starting this month all warranty work on 2006+ vehicles will have the history of their computer settings recorded and sent to GM. So,if true, GM would be able to see tuning, etc and could deny warranty work.

 

I know they can see if a tune is currently in a vehicle, but if it is returned to stock is this even possible? Has anyone at a dealership heard anything like this? Is it possible to look at the computer and see it has been tuned and returned to stock? Is this just a bunch of BS? Like I said I saw it on another site, sounds fishy to me, and I trust the folks here at GM-trucks to shed some light on the facts. Thanks for any info.

[Hoe-n-it]

Only Global A vehicles have any kind of history stored in the control modules that could be captured and sent to GM. The GMT-900 is not a Global A vehicle. I would bet the new 2014 models will record some kind of flash history. They might even lock the ECM's like on the newer diesels

[ruggedlife]

from everything i have heard, yes they can see there was a tune installed. they have to dig deep for it but they can see there was changes installed to the computer and if they dont have records of changing the computer they can deny warranty work

[MS3DALE]

xTooltipElement

 

 

Service Information

2012 Chevrolet Silverado - 4WD | Cheyenne, Sierra, Silverado VIN C/K Service Manual | Document ID: 2878166

#09-06-04-026D: Identifying Non-GM (Aftermarket) Engine and Transmission Calibrations for V8 Gasoline Engines Using Tech 2 or Global Diagnostic System 2 (GDS 2) - (Aug 15, 2012)

 

 

 

 

 

Subject: Identifying Non-GM (Aftermarket) Engine and Transmission Calibrations for V8 Gasoline Engines Using Tech 2® or Global Diagnostic System 2 (GDS 2)

 

 

 

 

Models: 2006-2013 GM Passenger Cars and Light Duty Trucks

 

 

 

Equipped with V8 Gasoline Powered Engines Only

 

 

 

 

Attention: This bulletin applies to V8 gasoline powered engines ONLY. For Duramax™ diesel powered engines, refer to the latest version of Corporate Bulletin Number 08-06-04-006.

 

This bulletin is being revised to add the 2012-2013 model year, and update the following: GDS to GDS 2, a new GDS 2 graphic, the GDS 2 calibration verification instruction step path, add instructions for Creating a .jpg File From a GDS 2 Calibration History Events Screen Shot, GMVIS to GWM, the text in the fifth paragraph to include transfer case and rear axle components and the names of the GM Representatives. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 09-06-04-026C (Section 06 – Engine/Propulsion System).

Notice: The PQC has a process to confirm the ECM/PCM calibration is GM issued. BEFORE authorizing any V8 gasoline engine replacement, the PQC requires the Calibrations Group to verify that the engine calibrations are OEM.

 

• The Calibrations Group will require a digital picture (.jpg file only) from the Tech 2® of the Vehicle Information- (Engine) Calibration ID and Verification No. (number) screen, according to the process that is outlined in this bulletin.

 

 

 

• The Calibrations Group will require a screen shot (.jpg file only) of the GDS 2 Calibration History Events screen according to the process that is outlined in this bulletin.

 

 

General Motors is identifying an increasing number of engine, transmission and catalytic converter part failures that are the result of non-GM (aftermarket) engine and transmission control calibrations being used.

When alteration to the GM-released engine or transmission control calibrations occurs, it subjects powertrain and driveline components (engine , transmission, transfer case, driveshaft and rear axle) to stresses that were not tested by General Motors. It is because of these unknown stresses, and the potential to alter reliability, durability and emissions performance, that GM has adopted a policy that prevents any UNAUTHORIZED dealer warranty claim submissions to any remaining warranty coverage, to the powertrain and driveline components whenever the presence of a non-GM (aftermarket) calibration is confirmed – even if the non-GM control module calibration is subsequently removed.

Warranty coverage is based on the equipment and calibrations that were released on the vehicle at time of sale, or subsequently updated by GM. That’s because GM testing and validation matches the calibration to a host of criteria that is essential to assure reliability, durability and emissions performance over the life of the warranty coverage and beyond. Stresses resulting from calibrations different from those tested and released by GM can damage or weaken components, leading to poor performance and or shortened life.

Additionally, non-GM (aftermarket) issued engine control modifications often do not meet the same emissions performance standards as GM issued calibrations. Depending on state statutes, individuals who install engine control module calibrations that put the vehicle outside the parameters of emissions certification standards may be subject to fines and/or penalties.

This bulletin outlines the procedure when using the Tech 2® or GDS 2 to identify the presence of non-GM (aftermarket) calibrations. GM recommends performing this check whenever a hard part failure is seen on internal engine, transmission, transfer case or rear axle components, and before disassembly, repair or replacement of an engine, transmission, transfer case or rear axle assembly under warranty. It is also recommended that the engine calibration verification procedure be performed whenever diagnostics determine that catalytic converter replacement is necessary.

If a non-GM calibration is found and verification has taken place through GM, the remaining powertrain and driveline warranty may be blocked and notated in Global Warranty Management (GWM) and the dealership will be notified. This block prevents any UNAUTHORIZED warranty claim submission.

 

1. Connect the Tech 2® to the vehicle.

 

 

 

2. Go to: Diagnostics and build the vehicle.

 

 

 

3. Select: Powertrain.

 

 

 

4. Select: Engine.

 

 

 

5. Select: Engine Control Module or PCM.

 

 

 

6. *Select: Module ID Information or I/M Information System if the Module ID Information selection is not available.

 

 

 

7. *If "I/M information System" was selected, it may be necessary to select "Vehicle Information" in order to display the calibration information.

 

 

 

? If the CVN information is displayed as “N/A”, it will be necessary to contact the TCSC at 1-800-828-6860 for English or 1-800-503-3222 for French to obtain the CVN information.

 

 

 

Notice The Tech 2® Vehicle Information - Calibration ID and Verification No. screen will differ slightly depending on vehicle and model year.

 

8. Take a CLEAR digital picture of the Tech 2® Vehicle Information screen showing the entire VIN, (Engine) Calibration ID and Verification No. (Numbers). Two examples of the Tech 2® Vehicle Information - (Engine) Calibration ID and Verification No. screens are shown. Retain the printout information and the Tech 2® screen photograph with the repair order.

 

Notice All pictures MUST be sent as a .jpg file. Keep all photos in ONE e-mail.

 

9. E-mail a copy of the picture to [email protected]. In the Subject line of the e-mail include the phrase “V8 Cal” as well as the complete VIN and Dealer BAC.

 

 

 

In the Body of the e-mail, include the VIN, mileage, R.O. number and BAC. Include a brief description of the customer concern and cause of the concern.

 

Notice The dealer will receive an e-mail reply after the calibrations have been validated. The e-mail reply will advise the dealer if the calibrations are OEM.

 

10. Allow two hours for the Calibrations Group to verify the calibrations and set up the case details.

 

 

 

? If the Calibrations Group determines that the calibrations ARE aftermarket calibrations, DO NOT contact GM Technical Assistance to discuss warranty concerns on the aftermarket calibrations. ALL questions and concerns about warranty should be directed to the District Manager Aftersales (DMA), in Canada the DM-CCSP (District Manager-Customer Care and Service Process).

 

 

 

? The Calibrations Group will update the appropriate PQC or TAC case with the results of the V8 Calibration Verification request.

 

Notice Requests that are sent to the Calibrations Group are handled in the order in which they were received.

 

11. You may call the PQC two hours after submitting the e-mail to the Calibrations Group (or after the results have been received by e-mail) for authorization to replace the assembly. This will provide the Calibrations Group time to receive, review and set up a case on the request. Please be prepared to provide all the usual documentation that is normally required when requesting an assembly authorization from the PQC.

 

Tech 2® Displaying All Zeroes for the Verification Numbers on the Vehicle Information - Calibration ID and Verification No. (Number) Screen

 

If the Tech 2® that you are using displays all zeroes for the Verification Numbers as shown, then perform the following steps:

 

1. Update the Tech 2® with the latest software from TIS2WEB.

 

 

2. Turn OFF the ignition for 90 seconds.

 

 

3. Connect the Tech 2® to the vehicle.

 

 

4. Turn ON the ignition, and build the vehicle. Observe the Tech 2® Vehicle Information - Calibration ID and Verification No. (Number) screen for proper operation.

 

 

? If the Tech 2® screen still does not display properly, then turn OFF the ignition for 90 seconds again. Turn ON the ignition and observe the same screen for proper operation.

 

Retrieving Calibrations From a Global A Vehicle Using GDS 2

 

This information applies to Global A vehicles and is typical of the procedure that will be used.

 

1. Turn OFF the ignition.

 

 

2. Connect the MDI to the Data Link Connector (DLC) of the vehicle.

 

Notice Use the USB port to make the following MDI connection:

 

3. Connect the MDI to a PC or laptop that has been downloaded with the GDS 2 application from TIS2WEB.

 

Notice At least one Diagnostic Package must be installed on the PC to perform diagnostics. If GDS 2 was just installed, select: Add New Diagnostic Package and then select a: Diagnostic Package to download.

 

4. Click: On the GDS 2 icon on the PC.

 

 

5. Click: On the Diagnostics icon.

 

 

6. Select: The serial number of the MDI being used.

 

 

7. Select: The Enter icon.

 

 

8. Select: Module Diagnostics.

 

 

9. Select: Engine Control Module.

 

Notice Due to the model selected, vehicle build, software and RPO variations, GDS 2 may ask for additional information in Step 10.

 

10. Select: Engine ID, if prompted.

 

 

11. Select: ID Information.

 

 

12. The Diagnostics page will appear.

 

Typical View of a GDS 2 Calibration History Events Screen

 

 

X500 Body Harness to Driver Door Harness

Notice GDS 2 is capable of displaying up to 10 Calibration History Events.

 

13. Select: Calibration History from the drop down menu in order to display the following items on the screen:

 

 

 

• Calibration History Buffer

 

 

 

• Number of Calibration History Events Stored

 

 

 

• Calibration Part Number History

 

 

 

• Calibration Verification Number History

 

 

14. Select: Save Report.

 

 

15. Select : Print.

 

 

16. Retain a copy of the screen shot with the repair order.

 

Notice All screen shots MUST be sent as a .jpg file. Keep all photos in ONE e-mail.

 

17. E-mail a copy of the screen shot to [email protected]. In the Subject line of the e-mail include the phrase “V8 Cal” as well as the complete VIN and Dealer BAC.

 

 

In the Body of the e-mail, include the VIN, mileage, R.O. number and BAC. Include a brief description of the customer concern and cause of the concern.

 

Notice The dealer will receive an e-mail reply after the calibrations have been validated. The e-mail reply will advise the dealer if the calibrations are OEM.

 

18. Allow two hours for the Calibrations Group to verify the calibrations and set up the case details.

 

 

? If the Calibrations Group determines that the calibrations ARE aftermarket calibrations, DO NOT contact GM Technical Assistance to discuss warranty concerns on the aftermarket calibrations. ALL questions and concerns about warranty should be directed to the District Manager Aftersales (DMA), in Canada the DM-CCSP (District Manager-Customer Care and Service Process).

 

 

? The Calibrations Group will update the appropriate PQC or TAC case with the results of the V8 Calibration Verification request.

 

Notice Requests that are sent to the Calibrations Group are handled in the order in which they were received.

 

19. You may call the PQC two hours after submitting the e-mail to the Calibrations Group (or after the results have been received by e-mail) for authorization to replace the assembly. This will provide the Calibrations Group time to receive, review and set up a case on the request. Please be prepared to provide all the usual documentation that is normally required when requesting an assembly authorization from the PQC.

 

Creating a .jpg File From a GDS 2 Calibration History Events Screen Shot

 

 

1. Click: On the Start icon.

 

 

2. Click: On All Programs.

 

 

3. Click: On Accessories.

 

 

4. Click: On Paint.

 

 

5. Navigate: To the Calibration History Events screen, using the instructions provided in the section titled — Retrieving Calibrations From a Global A Vehicle Using GDS 2

 

 

6. Press: The Print Scrn button on the keyboard.

 

 

7. Go to: Paint.

 

 

8. Select: Paste.

 

 

9. Select: Save As.

 

 

10. Select: Desktop.

 

 

11. Select: File name. Name the file. As an example use the VIN.

 

 

12. Select: Save as type, using the drop down menu.

 

 

13. Select: JPEG.

 

<a href="http://gsi.xw.gm.com/newsi/showDoc.do?docSyskey=2878166&from=sm#N66134">

Warranty Information

 

 

• The Dealership Service Management must be involved in any situation that would justify the use of labor operation Z1111.

 

 

 

• Notify the District Manager Aftersales (DMA), in Canada the DM-CCSP (District Manager-Customer Care and Service Process) of the situation.

 

 

 

• All claims will have to be routed to the Warranty Support Center (WSC) for approval.

 

 

 

• Please refer to Corporate Bulletin Number 09-00-89-016, Labor Operation Z1111 - Suspected Tampering or Vehicle Modifications for important information.

 

 

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:

Labor Operation

 

 

 

Description

 

 

 

Labor Time

 

 

 

Z1111

 

 

Suspected Tampering or Vehicle Modifications

 

 

0.2?hr

 

 

GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION

© 2012 General Motors. All rights reserved.

[jdubub]

That was a lot to take in lol. Now this kind of worries me.

[foghorn23]

Thanks Rich.

 

Top notch information as usual; you're one of the reasons this site is so good. Not opinion but facts in black in white from GM.

 

Definitely thinking twice maybe even three times before I go with any tune now. I really wanted to turn off AFM, but I'd rather have warranty. Wonder how this will play out in the future with customers who've already tuned; it they'll deny claims; what lawsuits, if any, will follow? Interesting.

[SouthCo]

Doesn't the law require them to prove the tune caused whatever the problem is? Yes u may have to get a lawyer involved but that's not a problem.

 

 

Sent from my iPod touch using Tapatalk

[ruggedlife]

yes it has you have to prove that the tune caused the failure, but thats pretty easy to say an upgraded horsepower tune blew the trans. or an upgraded engine tune put a hole in a piston from faulty tuning. or made the wrist pins start to work free from "oh so much extra power" you'd have a real real real hard time fighting that it didnt cause anything to happen with motor or trans. i believe superchips still offers a 2 year power train warranty with their tuner but i'd have to look into it again

[Hoe-n-it]

This is nothing new. The CVN check is like a check sum with computers. If the ECM has been returned to the stock tune the CVN's will match. This was debated ad nauseam here. http://www.gm-trucks.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=137788&st=0 and many times before. Note Justin with Black Bear's response post #28

[Blue2500CC]

I wish we had the choice of turning AFM on & off. I know people w/ tunes report better mpg with AFM turned off, just wish we could try it without possibly loosing the powertrain warranty.

 

Chris

[MikeNH]

This is nothing new. The CVN check is like a check sum with computers. If the ECM has been returned to the stock tune the CVN's will match. This was debated ad nauseam here. http://www.gm-trucks.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=137788&st=0 and many times before. Note Justin with Black Bear's response post #28

 

 

What worries me is he and the other BB reps always say "standard" tools cannot detect the presence of a tune. What about updated scan tools or the off chance a factory rep might be around with enhanced tools? Because frankly I'm not so certain it'd be so easy to defend a tune if a trans let go or if there was a freak engine failure. I trust that BB knows the limits to keep things safe but I don't trust that you could convince an arbitrator that the trans would've failed even without say additional power and disabling/lowering torque management.

[Hoe-n-it]

I think he has to say standard tools just to cover his....... What if GM were to develop a process to identify the number of ECM flashes (Non Global A) or made a change in new ECM's at any point in time. As I've said before in posts, I researched this very issue to death in all of the 10 or so forums Black Bear sponsers plus elsewhere on the net. I read literally thousands of post and have yet to see a single post where someone reported that GM discovered that their vehicle had been tuned when returned to stock. I'm still under warranty and purchased the extended warranty and I'm not worried. If I have a failure and I'm wrong I'll just fight GM through their arbitration process. I can't believe an arbitrator would let GM thumb their noses at the law.

[MikeNH]

Who knows. Warranty fears isn't why my truck isn't tuned- I just keep finding other things to buy instead. But I also doubt my employer would be happy with having to buy premium gas for me all the time- the other two remote based guys have cars, one an STI and the other a Sonata but even being in California their gas costs more but their vehicles are more efficient and they drive way less than me. So that bit of the truck will likely stay stock unless I pick up a dedicated work car.

[mymaggiebell]

it would be nice if one of the gm technical service reps could chime in on this. i have been researching this and talking it over with a fellow gmc owner and i am still afraid to do something i would like to do very badly. my father has had a few harley davidson motorcycles, and gets them chipped and "remapped" at the dealership, which means it is not stock. this did not void his warranty, only made things better!!! he was questioning me as to why i would need a 400hp 68k truck tuned, to which i asked him, why did he put brand new exhaust, chipped and tuned a dam near 50k bike when it hadnt left the lot yet!!! point being, if there are professionals who can tweak, without going beyond the limits, why is that an issue!!! i am not sure how many times, i have read with regards to a tune, BEST THING I HAVE DONE, TRUCK IS COMPLETELY DIFFERENT, etc. so i will wait and see if a gm rep will comment......

[MikeNH]

You'll never get a GM rep to tell you they can or can't see tunes, they'll just tow the company line and say not to do it. Never mind that all that posts here are customer service people, not tech reps, though I am sure GM has technical people who monitor this site, all the brands do that.