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WayneTN

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Discussion starter · #1 ·
I'm getting ready to replace the battery in my 2018 RAV4. I will use a memory saver connected to the OBD2 port so that the computer setting will not be lost. I have heard that in some vehicles, when you put in a new battery, you have to register the new battery with the vehicle--tell the computer that the battery is new. Do you have to register a new battery with a 2018 RAV4? Thanks in advance for your answer.
 
Am I missing something here?, Last time I changed the battery in our 2013 model RAV4 I disconnected the terminals replaced the battery hooked up the terminals to the new battery good to go. Have new vehicles become that complicated that you have to register the new battery with the cars computer!!!
 
Discussion starter · #3 ·
Have new vehicles become that complicated that you have to register the new battery with the cars computer!!!
Thanks for your quick reply, but, well, sir, you have just re-asked the question that I have. I have tried to research this through Google searches, searches here, three car parts places, and my local Toyota dealership where I bought the new battery. Everyone I've talked to and everything I've read says, "Just pop in the new battery. It will be OK. Trust me." Some don't even mention a memory saver that would connect external power to my OBD2 port's pin 16 so the computer doesn't loose the settings (radio stations, seat positions, engine "tuning", etc. Before I "just pop in the new battery" and head out for a vacation at the beach with my family, I'd like to know for sure whether or not new batteries in a 2018 RAV4 must be registered with the vehicle's computer (which, I understand, is done by a mechanic that owns a $2,500 diagnostic tool that he connects to the vehicle's OBD2 port) I know this is required for some vehicles that have a power management system that controls battery charging, etc.

Does anyone know for sure whether or not battery registration/coding is required for a 2018 RAV4? Thanks..
 
From what I know, BMW and Mercedes seem to be the ones that need it because the ECU intermittently drives the alternator based upon the need rather than a constant voltage being sent to the battery and electrical system. Their ECU determines the age and mileage of the battery and adjusts the running of the alternator. If they replace the battery and don't program it, the ECU doesn't recognize it and assumes the old one is still in and continues with its charging program.
I have not heard anything about Toyota's needing it.
 
Discussion starter · #5 ·
From what I know, BMW and Mercedes seem to be the ones that need it because the ECU intermittently drives the alternator based upon the need rather than a constant voltage being sent to the battery and electrical system. Their ECU determines the age and mileage of the battery and adjusts the running of the alternator. If they replace the battery and don't program it, the ECU doesn't recognize it and assumes the old one is still in and continues with its charging program.
I have not heard anything about Toyota's needing it.
Thanks Double G. Even though I am a newbie here, your explanation makes sense to me. Sounds like you have the answer, and I will be OK just changing the battery, especially if I use a memory saver device and a separate 12VDC battery so that my computer won't lose its settings. I greatly appreciate you taking the time to understand my concerns and to provide a detailed reply.
 
I had my 2015 Rav in storage for five months with the battery out and connected to a battery tender, When I put the battery back in the vehicle after all that time, everything was working. All the radio stations were still set as well as my mobile phone.Nothing was lost. So just replace the battery with a new one.
 
Discussion starter · #10 ·
Thanks, ravster2015. I replaced the battery today without a memory saver--wanted to see how it would go. The only thing that seems to vary from normal is that the clock's time setting was lost. No big deal.
And, thanks to all who replied. Your information and guidance helped. Drive safe!
 
A memory saver can cause problems. If the positive terminal touches the chassis you have a direct short to ground. Who knows what damage this can cause. I’d rather reset what ever is lost than risk problems.
 
Discussion starter · #12 ·
A memory saver can cause problems. If the positive terminal touches the chassis you have a direct short to ground. Who knows what damage this can cause. I’d rather reset what ever is lost than risk problems.
Good advice. Never short any live wire to ground in any circuit.
 
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