General Motors has identified an issue with the power liftgate draining the battery on certain Chevy Tahoe and Chevy Suburban models. The problem can impact units between the 2022 and 2024 model years, and arises as the result of false wake-up requests sent to the Body Control Module (BCM). GM has issued Technical Service Bulletin 24-NA-039 to address the problem.
According to a report from GM TechLink, the faulty requests may stem from the K171 Hands-Free Liftgate Sensor Control Module, which directs the BCM to attempt to open the liftgate. If specific operating conditions are met, such as the vehicle is set in Park, the key fob is located nearby (within three feet), and the appropriate Hands Free settings are enabled, the power liftgate may inadvertently open. If these operating conditions are not met, the power liftgate may not open.
GM Service Bulletin #24-NA-039 details how to diagnose and fix this problem. Technicians can remove the 10-amp F35RA fuse to see if the issue persists. With the fuse removed, the hands-free liftgate feature will be disabled, but the power liftgate will continue to work normally. However, the Trailer Tire Pressure Monitor system, if equipped, will also be disabled. In addition, a software issue within the BCM could exacerbate battery drain. To minimize this, ensure the BCM has the latest software updates. Owners should also avoid leaving key fobs inside the vehicle and use the passive locking feature to secure the vehicle when not in use.
If vehicle power liftgate opens on its own, or if the K171 module is identified as the primary cause, it’s recommended that the K171 module is replaced with the updated version. The revised module, distinguished by a stamped triangle, is designed to prevent the battery draw and unwanted activation​​.
Subscribe to GM Authority for more Chevy Tahoe news, Chevy Suburban news, Chevy news, GM technology news, and around-the-clock GM news coverage.
Comments
Software is ‘if’, ‘then’, ‘else’. These must be tested, what most young testers fail to test is the “What Ifs”?
More stupid electronic crap give me less is more in the long run you would think Gm would have learned this by now but I guess not
I’ve had to replace 3 batteries on my 2021 suburban that we only use for road trips, 25 k miles