Ecodiesel Battery Questions

[Cobblecrazy]

For quite some time I've had an issue with the start/stop function not being available with the dash message saying "not available, system charging". Now I'm not going to get into the discussion about the pros and cons of the start/stop function as I know the arguments, but that is not the purpose of this thread anyway.

I have received several "Charging System" error messages through the Mopar vehicle health function, but most of the time it just goes away (the Mopar site shows everything fine) without any explanation. I've had it into the dealership on several occasions for these battery related issues, but they've never been able to diagnose a problem other than to charge up the batteries. I've been told the only way they'll replace the batteries is for the batteries to totally fail - not very reassuring (I know there is some discussion about poor quality factory batteries).

I've had a few issues with overheating under load (towing a 3000 lb trailer) up short - under a mile - not very steep hills. The fluids were checked and were within norms at the time, as well as, there is no reduction in the amount of fluids that would suggest anything has leaked out. Temps were in the 50's and 60's. Along the flats the system performed fine with temps staying in that 212 - 217 degree range. And to answer a possible question - no I have not had the system pressure checked at this point. The trailer was dropped and the truck was driven around through the mountains - on and off road - without any overheating issues.

My question to the universe is what possible impact could a poor battery (or batteries) have on the function of the system. I'm assuming with all the relays, sensors, etc., any compromise of the electrical input would have an impact. Would that also impact the way the cooling system is functioning? And, would it make sense the issue would be exacerbated under load.

There seems to be many posts floating around claiming a simple replacement of the factory batteries seemed to have solved the gremlins some seem to be experiencing.

Anyway, wondering about others experiences along these lines, and if changing batteries had any impact.

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[Mr._Bill]

I would start by trying this: Disconnect the ground cables from the main battery and the body so the batteries are isolated. Charge each battery separately. Disconnect the IBS sensor that is attached to the negative post on the main battery for a while to reset it. Put everything back together and drive it normally for a week. If the Not Ready - Charging message returns, it's likely a failing ESS battery. The dealer should be charging the batteries, and then doing a load test. If they fail the load test, they replace them under warranty. If not, they send you on your way.