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NUMBER DATE
023 February 2011

Technical Service Bulletin

SUBJECT:
GR8-1299 BATTERY TESTER / CHARGER
Kia Motors Logo 4/C - Medium

and new battery warranty policy

Overview:
• The Midtronics GR8-1299 Diagnostic Battery Charger/Tester was launched in September
2010 as a new Kia essential tool. The Kia Battery, Starter, and Alternator Warranty Policy
requires the GR8-1299 be used for all related warranty claims. Claims based on the
Midtronics Micro 570 handheld tester were no longer accepted after 10/31/2010 (Refer to
Warranty Bulletin 2010-13 on kDealer for the policy change).
• KMA continues to receive dealer calls regarding how to obtain a GR8-1299 warranty
code (Battery, Starter or Alternator Test Results), though the procedure is clearly outlined
in the GR8 operations manual. This bulletin is being issued to identify battery, alternator
and starter diagnosis procedures and provide reference sections in the GR8 operations
manual which was included in the GR8 tool shipment. KMA recommended that each
dealer conduct an in dealership technician training session showing correct diagnosis
procedures outlined in the GR8 operation manual.
• The GR8-1299 must be used as part of the diagnosis for battery, starter and alternator
related warranty repair work. The GR8-1299 is a state of the art tool that checks battery
health, then performs a reliable intelligent safe charge which can quickly restore most
batteries to good condition. Some dead batteries that have not been charged for a long
period, may be fully revived within 1.5 hours.
Basic Operation and Battery Warranty Policy using GR8-1299:
1. Perform a quick test in the Battery Test mode. If the Battery Test mode provides a
“Replace Battery” result, with a replace code, the battery can be replaced without further
steps.
2. If the Battery Test produces a “Charge and Retest” result, you are then required to
conduct a Diagnostic Charge that will determine if the battery can be brought to a “Good
Battery” condition. If the initial diagnostic charge test finds that the charge will not revive
the battery, it will usually indicate “Replace Battery” within 20 to 30 minutes, on average
(refer to page 25 of the GR8 Instruction Manual).
3. Should the battery pass the “Diagnostic Charge” test, it will continue charging (in Top Off
Mode) to a full charge condition (which can take up to 1.5 hours), and indicate “Good
Battery” when completed successfully.
4. The GR8 produces printouts of the results in both the Battery Test and Diagnostic Charge
modes as well as for the starter and alternator. The printouts must be attached to the
warranty repair order with proper VIN and RO number entered via GR8’s keyboard.
Note:The GR8 diagnosis procedures requires that the technician always performs a
Diagnostic Charge after a Battery Test result of “Charge and Retest”.

File Under: SST

Circulate To: X General Manager X Service Manager X Parts Manager

X Service Advisor(s) X Technician(s) X Body Shop Manager X Fleet Repair
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subject:
GR8-1299 BATTERY TESTER / CHARGER and new battery warranty policy

GR8-1299 Battery, Starting, and Charging Systems Test Unit:

Performs Battery, Starting Charging Systems testing and diagnostic charging. The GR8 Control Mod-
ule can be used independently of the Charge Engine after a battery charge session is in process. The
Quick Disconnect Serial Cable from the Charge Engine to the Control Module may be disconnected
and maintain wireless communication between the Control Module and Charge Engine. The Quick
Disconnect Serial Cable should be reconnected when docked on the Charge Engine.

Charge Engine Control Module

CAUTION
Never connect both the Control Module Clamps and Charge Engine Clamps to a
battery at the same time. Damage to the Control Module may occur.

Service Procedure
The battery inspection is a two step process, Battery Test and if required, Diagnostic Charge.

Battery Test, STEP ONE: (Refer to page 25 in the GR8-1299 Instruction Manual):
Power on the GR8 with the Control Module docked on the Charge Engine. You should hear the fan
come on and Control Module display will light up.

1. Connect the Control Module's small clamps to the

vehicle’s battery. Ensure that the black clamp is
connected to the battery negative “-” terminal and
the red clamp is connected to the battery positive
“+” terminal. The display will warn if the clamps
are connected incorrectly.

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subject:
GR8-1299 BATTERY TESTER / CHARGER and new battery warranty policy

2. Select Battery Test. Follow the tester instructions to complete

the battery test.

3. Follow these screen by screen instructions from left to right of each row. This example shows
screens that will occur for battery condition of “Charge & Retest”:
*

*Battery policy is to test all batteries "in vehicle".

Refer to the "Battery Application Guide" available on KDealer/Parts/
Kia Battery Program/ --upper right corner.

* NOTICE
All Kia replacement batteries for warranty claims are supplied by Interstate as per the application
chart on page 11 that lists models through the 2011 model year. This chart can be referenced
for the proper CCA per model for test purposes. Updated versions of this chart are available on
KDealer/Parts/Kia Battery Program -- upper right corner.
KMA provides warranty coverage only for Genuine Kia Batteries purchased from KMA. Refer to
section 7.21 of the Kia Service Policy & Procedures Manual.

* NOTICE
Always print out the Battery Test result to attach to the Repair Order.

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subject:
GR8-1299 BATTERY TESTER / CHARGER and new battery warranty policy

4. Follow directions provided in the following table based on result of Battery Test (first column).
PRINT results at Battery Test and then after Diagnostic Charge:

GR8 BATTERY DIAGNOSTIC TEST/CHARGE REPAIR PROCEDURE

AND WARRANTY POLICY
1st Step 2nd Step 3rd Step Claim
ALWAYS BEGIN WITH PERFORM DIAGNOSTIC
BATTERY TEST FIRST: CHARGE AS APPLICABLE:

Press YES or select

Diagnostic at Main Menu:

Battery Test Result Diag. Charge Result Repair Action Warranty Claim Type
GOOD BATTERY Charge is not applicable None None

GOOD - RECHARGE Dealer optional charge CHARGE BY GR8 None

method as per 
or,

run engine at idle for 20

minutes

REPLACE BATTERY/BAD Charge is not applicable REPLACE BATTERY REPLACE 37110R00 only
CELL
(Add to R.O. Print Ticket #A)

CHARGE & RETEST COMPLETE – GOOD GR8 CHARGE ONLY CHARGE 37110A0A only
BATTERY
OEM Batteries (Add to R.O. Print Ticket #B)
2 years/unlimited miles

CHARGE & RETEST REPLACE BATTERY/BAD GR8 CHARGE ATTEMPT CHARGE 37110A0A
CELL
NO GOOD –> +

REPLACE BATTERY REPLACE 37110R00

(Add to R.O. Print Ticket #C)

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GR8-1299 BATTERY TESTER / CHARGER and new battery warranty policy

Diagnostic Charge STEP TWO, if instructed by GR8:

(Refer to page 21 in the GR8-1299 Instruction Manual):

5. Connect only the Charger Engine’s large clamp

set to the vehicle’s battery making sure that the
black clamp is connected to the battery negative
“-” terminal and the red clamp is connected to the
battery positive “+” terminal. GR8 display will warn
if you had connected it backwards.

6. Perform following instructions showing the GR8 screens (as shown from left to right of
each row) that will occur when a “Good Battery” is reached after charging:

* NOTICE
When the Diagnostic Charge results in “Good Battery” you must attach print
tickets of the results from both Battery Test with the “Charge & Retest” result and
the Diagnostic Charge “Good Battery” result per example of “Print Ticket #B” on
the page 7.

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GR8-1299 BATTERY TESTER / CHARGER and new battery warranty policy

7. This is what will occur for GR8 screen when “Replace Battery” results after a Diagnostic
Charge attempt:

* NOTICE
When the Diagnostic Charge results in “Replace Battery” you may in this
circumstance be permitted to claim Op Code 37110A0A for the Charge Battery
attempt and also Op Code 37110R00 for Replace Battery. However you must
attach print tickets from both Battery Test with the “Charge & Retest” result and
Diagnostic Charge result showing “Replace Battery” as per example of “Print
Ticket #C” on the next page.

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subject:
GR8-1299 BATTERY TESTER / CHARGER and new battery warranty policy

8. Print Tickets that must be attached to the Repair Order based on Battery Test result and Diagnostic
Charge result are shown below, also listed are the warranty claim types:

Print Ticket# A Print Ticket# B Print Ticket# C

(Both tickets as shown must be (Both tickets as shown must be
attached with matching VIN, close in attached with matching VIN, close in
date, and with correct RO#) date, and with correct RO#)
REPLACE 37110R00 CHARGE 37110A0A CHARGE 37110A0A
only only
+

REPLACE 37110R00
BATTERY TEST= 1. BATTERY TEST=CHARGE & RETEST 1. BATTERY TEST=CHARGE & RETEST
REPLACE BATTERY 2. DIAGNOSTIC CHARGE= 2. DIAGNOSTIC CHARGE=

GOOD BATTERY REPLACE BATTERY

1 2 1 2

Enter this 12-digit warranty code into the

claim based on results as indicated

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Page 8 of 12
subject:
GR8-1299 BATTERY TESTER / CHARGER and new battery warranty policy

* NOTICE
All Kia replacement batteries for warranty claims are supplied by Interstate as per the application
chart on the next page that lists models through the 2011 model year. This chart can be
referenced for the proper CCA per model for test purposes. Updated versions of this chart are
available on KDealer/Parts/Kia Battery Program -- upper right corner.
KMA provides warranty coverage only for Genuine Kia Batteries purchased from KMA. Refer to
section 7.21 of the Kia Service Policy & Procedures Manual.

The System Test (Refer to page 28 in the GR8-1299 Instruction Manual):

The GR8 System Test checks the status of the Battery, Starting and Charging systems. Before
replacing components, verify integerty of circuits and cables.

1. Connect the Control Module clamps to the vehi-

cle’s battery. Ensure that the black clamp is con-
nected to the battery negative “-” terminal and the
red clamp is connected to the battery positive “+”
terminal. The display will warn if the clamps are
connected incorrectly.

2. Select the “System Test."

3. The GR8 Control Module will perform a Battery Test. Follow procedure found under Battery
Test, STEP ONE (Page 3 of this TSB) (Refer to page 25 in the GR8-1299 Instruction Manual)

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4. The Starter Test (Refer to page 30 in the GR8-1299 Instruction Manual):

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the
starter test. When asked to start the engine, do not dis-
able the ignition or fuel. The starting system is tested
while the engine is started. Before replacing the starter,
check the cables.
If the vehicle is a NO CRANK/NO START, the tester
will ask you to select between "STARTED" and "NO
START". After selecting "NO START", the tester will pro-
duce a Starter Code.
The test results will be displayed.

* NOTICE
The use of an Amp Clamp is not required. When asked if one is being
used, select NOT AVAILABLE. Using an amp clamp will not affect test
results.

5. The Charging System Test (Refer to page 31 in the GR8-1299 Instruction Manual):

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete

the charging test. The tech will be asked to run the
engine at different RPM with and without loads.
When complete, the tester will display the results.
Before replacing the alternator, check the wiring and
cables along with the charge signal from the ECM.

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FAQ’S:
Q: The Midtronics GR8 tester did not produce a code. How do I enter a warranty claim?
A: When the procedure is followed properly, the Midtronics GR8 tester will always produce a
code. To determine the cause, the technician should read the GR8 Instruction Manual and this
TSB.
Q: The vehicle was towed into the shop and would not crank and start. How can I get a code to
enter a warranty claim?
A: The technician should run a system test to test the battery. During the starter test portion, he
should input “No Start” into the tester. If the battery is good the tester will show “No Start” and
produce a code.

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GR8-1299 BATTERY TESTER / CHARGER and new battery warranty policy

 BATTERY APPLICATION GUIDE 
Model Year Reference Kia Part Number IBSA Type CCA RC
 Amanti 
 2004 ‐ 2009  101 37110 24001U  V124R  700 120
 Borrego 
2009   V6 & V8 101 37110 24001U  V124R  700 120
 Forte / Koup
2010 ‐ 2011 102 37110 35001U  V121R  600 110
 Optima 
Optima
 2001 ‐ 2003 105 37110 47000U 60‐47 590 85
 2004 ‐ 2011 101 37110 24001U  V124R  700 120
 Rio / Rio 5
 2001 ‐ 2011 102 37110 35001U  V121R  600 110
 Rondo 
 2007 ‐ 2009  101 37110 24001U 
37110 24001U V124R 
V124R 700 120
 Sedona 
 2002 ‐ 2011 101 37110 24001U  V124R  700 120
 Sephia 
 1998 ‐ 2001  102 37110 35001U  V121R  600 110
 Spectra 
p
 2000 ‐ 2009  102 37110 35001U  V121R  600 110
 Sportage 
 1995 ‐ 1999* 103 37110 58000U 60‐58HD 540 80
 1999 ‐ 2002** 104 37110 86000U 60‐86 525 90
 2005 ‐ 2011 101 37110 24001U  V124R  700 120
  Soul
Soul
2010 ‐ 2011 102 37110 35001U  V121R  600 110
 Sorento  
 2003 ‐ 2009  106 37110 34000U  60‐34  700 120
2011 101 37110 24001U   V124R  700 120

* Production dates 1995 through 9‐3‐98.
g *New Battery Product*
y
** Production dates 9‐4‐98 through 2002. Rescue Power Station
CCA ‐ Cold Cranking Amps (30 seconds at 0ºF). Part # 37110 PWST950
RC ‐ Reserve Capacity (minutes of 25 amps output at 80ºF). Applies to all 12 Volt Vehicles

Battery Warranty Policy and Procedures:
Please refer to the following: “Kia Service Policies and Procedures Manual,topic: “Warranty Repair Policies and Procedure ‐ Battery Policy and Procedures".
Revised Oct,2010

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GR8-1299 BATTERY TESTER / CHARGER and new battery warranty policy

KIA SERVICE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Section # 7.21 page 10 of 13 Topic
Battery Claim
Issue Date Revision Date
policy and
September 2005 october 2010
() (X) () ()
procedures
New partial Complete No (oEM &
Revision Revision Changes Replacement)

BATTERY MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Interval Procedure Warranty
Coverage
Required: perform Inspection of battery state of charge using the Yes
Within 7 days of Kia gR8 tester. Take action based on the following
vehicle delivery to result:
dealer GOOD BATTERY – No action required (covered under
pDI unless recharge or replace).
GOOD-RECHARGE – Run engine for 15 minutes at
idle & loads off.
CHARGE & RETEST – Charge with battery charger
and retest.
BAD BATTERY – Replace battery
NOTE: The Kia gR8 print out must be attached to the
warranty claim. A Kia battery test code must be noted
on the warranty claim and is needed in order to submit
the claim.
Required: Run engine 15 minutes at idle & loads off. No need to No
Every Month stored in test with Kia gR8 tester unless it’s difficult to start the
Dealer Storage Lot vehicle.
Required: perform inspection of battery state of charge using the No
At 3 Months stored in Kia gR8 tester. Take action based upon the following
Dealer Lot result:
GOOD BATTERY – No action required
GOOD-RECHARGE – Run engine for 15 minutes at
idle & loads off.
CHARGE & RETEST – Charge with battery charger
and retest.
BAD BATTERY – Replace battery (not warranty)
Recommended: perform inspection of battery state of charge using the No
Prior to customer Kia gR8 tester. Take action based upon the following
Delivery result:
GOOD BATTERY – No action required
GOOD-RECHARGE – Run engine for 15 minutes at
idle & loads off.
CHARGE & RETEST – Charge with battery charger
and retest.
BAD BATTERY – Replace battery (not warranty)

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