Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Proper Battery Charging
If a low battery SOC is preventing the OTA update installation, the 12V battery should be charged to meet the target SOC of 70 percent.
On some GM models, connecting the battery charger directly to the 12V battery posts will bypass the Battery Sensor Module, resulting in a default SOC value of 65 percent and a "Conditions Not Met" message.
The Battery Sensor Module is attached directly to the battery negative terminal. It determines the battery condition by calculating the battery SOC, functions, and state of health, which is used to help determine if the 12V Stop/Start system will allow an Auto Stop when the vehicle has come to a stop. To properly charge the battery, the negative lead of the charger must be connected to chassis ground, and not directly to the negative battery post. Connecting to chassis ground allows current to flow through the Battery Sensor Module during charging as well as be monitored. The current cannot be monitored by the Battery Sensor Module if the negative lead of the charger is directly connected to the negative battery post.
If a battery is improperly charged, the Battery Sensor Learn will be required to calibrate the Battery Sensor Module. With the ignition off, let the vehicle rest for a minimum of four hours without any interruptions (opening a door, using the key fob, etc.). Verify if the battery SOC is 70 percent or greater using GDS2 before attempting to continue with an OTA update.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.