BATTERY DIAGNOSTICS AND INSPECTION can be done efficiently with the MIDTRONICS GR8 or the EXP-800 electrical system testers. These testers improve your ability to accurately perform diagnostics and report the overall health of a 12V battery.The MIDTRONICS GR8 and EXP-800 are the recommended test equipment for Nissan/Infiniti 12V battery diagnostics. Reference the current Nissan/Infiniti Assurance Products Resource Manual and the latest
DID YOU KNOW THE HEAD UNIT FROM THE GR8 CAN BE REMOVED FROM THE BASE?
This allows the GR8 head unit to function similarly to the EXP-800, which gives you another portable battery tester.
Also, to make the GR8 head unit more easily portable, a quick disconnect cable is available from Tech-Mate at www.nissantechmate.com or 1-800-662-2001.
Order Part Number 165-130-000064.
SOFTWARE UPDATES:
As of April 1, 2015, the Midtronics GR8 and EXP-800 testers MUST have an SD card installed in order for the testers to receive and complete the quarterly software updates.
Early in 2015, standard 4 GB SD cards were distributed to all dealers.
THE TESTER WILL NOT FUNCTION when the deadline date has passed*. The only sign of life from the tester will be a message on the screen indicating that a software update is required. After the update is completed, the tester will again function normally.
*The Midtronics GR8 and EXP-800 testers are programmed to require a software update quarterly (deadlines are January 1st, April 1st, July 1st and October 1st).
NOTE:
• If your ASIST computer is connected to the internet, selecting Midtronics Software Update will link to a website with all the instructions needed to update the software.
• If an update process will not complete, make sure a standard 4 GB SD card is installed and formatted. The testers have an SD card format function built in. (If an SD card is not formatted, the tester will display a message indicating that formatting is REQUIRED and give an option to format now.)
• Testers will notify users that an update will be required five days prior to the deadline and repeat the message each day (counting down the days) until the deadline.
TIPS FOR TESTING BATTERIES AT PRE-DELIVERY INSPECTION (PDI) AND VEHICLES IN INVENTORY:
A CHECK-IN test with a voltage between 12.0 -12.5 volts will result in a test code that can be used, if needed, for a warranty claim for battery recharge.
When a new vehicle arrives at your dealer, the first battery test (PDI battery test) should always be done with CHECK-IN mode.
When using CHECK-IN mode, CUSTOMER DELIVERY mode, or INVENTORY mode, a decision voltage reading of less than 12.5 volts will direct the user to perform a DIAGNOSTIC CHARGE using the GR8.
NOTE: The GR8 Diagnostic Charge must be performed for all PDI battery replacement claims.
OTHER BATTERY TESTING TIPS:
Make sure both tester cable clamps are securely attached to clean exposed battery terminals or connectors, ensuring a good electrical connection.
Make sure the ignition is OFF and all doors are closed, and then wait at least 30 seconds before starting a battery test. In some instances when the Midtronics GR8 or EXP-800 cables do not have a good connection or there is interference from the vehicle’s electrical systems, the testers can give an unusual test result, such as: GOOD VOLTAGE (greater than 12.5 V) and 0 CCA or LOW VOLTAGE (less than 12.5 V) and High CCA
TESTING AFTER A LONG CHARGING SESSION:
When testing with the Midtronics GR8, a “REPLACE” decision after a long charging session may indicate the battery did not reach the SOC (State Of Charge) threshold (typically 80%) within the allocated time. If the battery did not reach the SOC threshold, the test result is not accurate. Re-testing the battery a second time will provide a more accurate result.
NOTE: If tester clamps are poorly connected to the battery terminals or unclamped from the battery terminals during testing, the test will not complete and the tester will not produce a print strip with test codes. A lack of test codes on a battery claim may result in claim suspension or denial.
TESTING A COLD or HOT BATTERY:
Testing a “cold” battery (below freezing) may result in incorrect test decisions. If a cold battery is tested and a “REPLACE” decision is reached yet the vehicle starts without hesitation, perform a re-test after the vehicle (or battery only) has been in the shop overnight to ensure the battery is warm enough (above freezing).
TEMPERATURE SENSORS:
The temperature sensor is located on the lower corner of the EXP-800 and on the back of the GR8 head unit.
The sensor should be held about 2 inches above the battery.
NOTE:
• If your hand is over the sensor, it will give an inaccurate reading.
• If the sensor is near hot engine components, it will give an inaccurate reading.
TEMPERATURE MEASUREMENTS:
When using the EXP800, if five consecutive measurements of too hot or too cold are detected, the tester will LOCK and will not function. The tester will have to be sent to a service center to restore the tester functions.
NOTE: Consecutive measurements of too hot or too cold may indicate that the temperature sensor in the tester is damaged, which could produce inaccurate test results. Therefore, the tester will LOCK until it is serviced.