It is imperative to supply power at all times to the majority of late model vehicles to keep the memory alive on all the resident computers. Most vehicles have in excess of four computers operating different aspects of normal vehicle operation or security. When the power is disconnected, the computers are liable to lose their memories and need to be reprogrammed. Although this can be done, it is a real pain that can easily be avoided. For instance, a BMW will lose the memory for the sunroof, door locks, automatic down window, seats and idle mapping. GPS security will need to be re-coded, the radio re-coded, and the automatic climate control, to name a few.
Instructions
- 1
Plug the memory saver into the cigarette lighter. If you have purchased the type that plugs into the OBD port do so at this time. The OBD (on board diagnostics) port is generally located under the dash just to the left of the steering column. Some foreign cars such as Toyota prefer to conceal the port behind the coin tray on the dash or below an ashtray.
2Disconnect the battery negative terminal followed by the positive terminal.
3Install the battery and install the positive terminal first followed by the negative terminal.
4Start the vehicle first and then remove the memory saver.
