15-318-24R

ATTENTION:
GENERAL MANAGER
q
PARTS MANAGER
q
CLAIMS PERSONNEL
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IMPORTANT - All
Service Personnel
Should Read and
Initial in the boxes
provided, right.
SERVICE MANAGER
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© 2023 Subaru of America, Inc. All rights reserved.
SERVICE BULLETIN
APPLICABILITY:
		
SUBJECT:
2019MY Legacy & Outback
2019-21MY WRX/STI
NUMBER: 15-318-24R
DATE:
02/23/24
Data Communication Module (DCM) Bypass Box
REVISED:
04/17/24
INTRODUCTION:
This bulletin announces the warranty extension for the Data Communication Module (DCM) up to
8 years (96 months) or 150,000 miles (whichever comes first) to address dead battery resulting from
excessive dark current draw caused by the DCM, due to internal memory corruption. Effective from
the date of customer notification, ALL affected vehicles, regardless of mileage or Warranty Start Date
will be covered for a period of one (1) year.
This bulletin also announces the availability of the DCM Bypass Box designed to be used as an
alternative replacement part for DCM in vehicles with no active STARLINK subscription.
•
This extension will cover the replacement of the DCM for vehicles with an “Active”
STARLINK subscription if the DCM is confirmed to be the cause of the excessive dark
current draw.
•
The extension will also cover the testing, recharging/replacement of the battery if the DCM is
found to be the root cause of the excessive dark current draw. Battery test code is required for
the claim entry.
•
For “Unsubscribed” vehicles, without a STARLINK subscription, with a confirmed excessive
dark current draw from the DCM, this extension will cover the installation of a DCM bypass
box.
•
Customers who received the bypass box have the option to request a replacement DCM once
new DCM inventory is available, which is estimated as September 2025. This extension
will cover removal of the bypass box and installation of a new DCM. This request must be
documented with a Subaru retailer at the time of the initial repair.
•
All inspections and repairs must be completed prior to the expiration of this Warranty
extension.
•
Customers who have paid for DCM or DCM bypass box replacement prior to the release of
this extension are eligible for reimbursement. Details of reimbursement procedure is provided
in the customer letter which is added to the end of this bulletin.
.
CAUTION: VEHICLE SERVICING PERFORMED BY UNTRAINED PERSONS COULD
RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY TO THOSE PERSONS OR TO OTHERS.
Subaru Service Bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians ONLY. They
are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur in some vehicles,
or to provide information that could assist in the proper servicing of the vehicle. Properly
trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to
do the job correctly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that this
Service Bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition.
Bulletin Number: 15-318-24; Date: 04/17/24
Subaru of America, Inc. is
ISO 14001 Compliant
ISO 14001 is the international standard for
excellence in Environmental Management
Systems. Please recycle or dispose of
automotive products in a manner that is friendly
to our environment and in accordance with all
local, state and federal laws and regulations.
Continued...
Page 1 of 18
PART INFORMATION:
DCM Bypass Box
Part Description
Part Number
DCM BYPASS BOX
86229AL400
STARLINK SUBSCRIPTION CONFIRMATION:
ALWAYS confirm the STARLINK subscription status prior to proceeding with any service
procedures. This DCM Bypass Box installation is for vehicles without any active STARLINK
subscription. ALWAYS confirm the STARLINK subscription status prior to performing the DCM
bypass box installation. This bypass box (86229AL400) is ONLY orderable through PRIME. There is
no need to contact PICs for release.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If the vehicle has an active STARLINK subscription and excessive dark
current draw from the DCM, the Bypass Box is not required, and a Data Communication Module
must be used as replacement part. Please contact SOA PICs team after placing the order through
the normal ordering channels with the VIN and order number to have the VIN verified for the
subscription and have the order released. No changes have been made to the DCM replacement
procedure. Refer to the applicable Subaru Service Manual for DCM replacement.
CONFIRMING SUBSCRIPTION STATUS USING SNET VEHICLE INQUIRY:
1. Enter the subject Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into the VIN search box and click the
search button.
2. Select the Connected Vehicle Subscriptions drop down.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-318-24; Date: 04/17/24
Page 2 of 18
3. Confirm the status reads “Inactive” prior to proceeding. If the status reads “Active,’ the vehicle
has an active STARLINK subscription and does not qualify for the repair procedures outlined in
this bulletin.
CONFIRMING SUBSCRIPTION STATUS USING SUBARU SELECT MONITOR:
4. Connect the applicable Subaru Select Monitor (SSM) to the vehicle. Read the Subscription status
of the DCM located in the “Work Support”
menus. Confirm the subscription status reads
“Unsubscribed” prior to proceeding. If the
status reads “Subscribed,’ the vehicle has an
active STARLINK subscription and does not
qualify for Bypass Box installation and will
require a DCM replacement as per the applicable Subaru Service Manual.
DCM BYPASS BOX INSTALLATION CONFIGURATION:
DCM Bypass
Box
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-318-24; Date: 04/17/24
Page 3 of 18
LEGACY & OUTBACK DCM REMOVAL PROCEDURE / INFORMATION:
IMPORTANT: This procedure is for vehicles without any active STARLINK subscription. ALWAYS
confirm the STARLINK subscription status prior to performing the procedures outlined below.
STEP 1: Refer to the applicable Service Manual and review: General Description > Repair Contents
> Action required before & after Battery Disconnect. Additionally, record any stored seat position(s)
before proceeding. Relearn any seat position memory after work is complete. If the power rear gate
(PRG) height has been customized, that position must also be noted and relearned.
STEP 2: CAREFULLY disconnect the battery sensor
from the negative ground terminal and wait at least 60
seconds before continuing.
STEP 3: Remove the Center Grille Assembly.
A. Release the clips and claws.
B. Disconnect the connector and remove the
Grille Assembly.
C. Disconnect and remove the hazard switch.
STEP 4: Remove the Heater Control Assembly.
A. Release the clips and claws.
B. Remove the panel.
C. Remove the mounting screws.
D. Detach the heater control assembly.
CAUTION: A flat head screwdriver with protective
tape can be used as shown in the right image. Use
special care to not damage the heater control assembly.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-318-24; Date: 04/17/24
Page 4 of 18
STEP 5: Remove the audio assembly.
A. Remove the mounting screws.
B. Release the mounting clips.
C. Disconnect all electrical connections.
D. The audio assembly can then be
removed.
STEP 6: Remove the DCM.
A. CAREFULLY remove the bracket
mounting screws.
B. Remove the DCM and the backup module
assembly together.
CAUTION: Be mindful to not cause any damage to
the mounting screws during removal. The mounting
screws are to be reused.
STEP 7: Refer to the DCM Bypass Box Installation
section of this bulletin on page #8.
WRX DCM REMOVAL PROCEDURE / INFORMATION:
IMPORTANT: This procedure is for vehicles without any active STARLINK subscription. ALWAYS
confirm the STARLINK subscription status prior to performing the procedures outlined below.
STEP 1: Refer to the applicable Service Manual and review: General Description > Repair Contents
> Action required before & after Battery Disconnect. Additionally, record any stored seat position(s)
before proceeding. Relearn any seat position memory after work is complete. If the power rear gate
(PRG) height has been customized, that position must also be noted and relearned.
STEP 2: CAREFULLY disconnect the battery sensor from
the negative ground terminal and wait at least 60 seconds
before continuing.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-318-24; Date: 04/17/24
Page 5 of 18
STEP 3: Using a plastic trim tool, remove the left side
instrument panel cover.
STEP 4: Remove the left inner and outer lower instrument panels.
A. Remove the mounting screws.
B. Release the mounting clips and
claws.
C. Pull both panels toward the rear
of the vehicle.
D. Disconnect all electrical
connections.
CAUTION: ALWAYS pull the panels toward the rear of the vehicle. Pulling in an upward or
downward direction may cause damage to the mounting claws.
STEP 5: Remove the knee airbag module.
A. Remove the mounting nuts.
B. CAREFULLY disconnect the
electrical connection.
STEP 6: Remove the glove box assembly.
A. Apply protective tape to the lower
center panel section shown as (a) in
the right image.
B. Disconnect the damper from the glove
box.
C. Release the stoppers and pull the glove
box toward the rear of the vehicle.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-318-24; Date: 04/17/24
Page 6 of 18
STEP 7: Remove the glove box backing panel.
A. Using a plastic trim tool, remove the
right side instrument panel cover.
B. Release the clips and removed the
instrument panel ornamental trim.
TIP: The instrument panel ornamental trim can be
removed by applying pressure from the backside.
C. Remove the glove box LED and
disconnect the electrical connection.
D. Removed the mounting screws.
E. Release the claws and harness clamp.
F. The glove box backing panel can then
be removed.
STEP 8: Remove the center grille assembly.
A. Apply protective tape to the instrument
panel section shown as (a) in the right
image.
B. Release the claw using a plastic trim tool
or a clip removal to with protective tape
applied to the contact area.
C. Disconnect the electrical connector and
remove the center grille assembly.
STEP 9: Remove the audio assembly.
A. Apply protective tape the center storage area section indicated as (a) in the lower right
image.
B. Remove the mounting screws and bolts.
C. Release the mounting claws and partially remove the audio assembly to gain access to
the electrical connections.
CAUTION: If the antenna cable interferes with
the removal side mounting bolts, move the antenna
cable before attempting to remove the bolts.
D. Disconnect the electrical connectors
and remove the audio assembly.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-318-24; Date: 04/17/24
Page 7 of 18
STEP 10: Remove the DCM.
A. CAREFULLY remove the bracket mounting
screws.
B. Remove the DCM and the backup module
assembly together.
CAUTION: Be mindful to not cause any damage to the
mounting screws during removal. The mounting screws
are to be reused.
STEP 11: Refer to the DCM Bypass Box Installation
section of this bulletin on page #8.
DCM BYPASS BOX INSTALLATION:
STEP 1: Mount the DCM Bypass Box with the brackets in place of the DCM.
DCM Bypass Box
Left side of the DCM Bypass Box.
Bulletin Number: 15-318-24; Date: 04/17/24
Continued...
Page 8 of 18
STEP 2: Locate pin #4 of head unit connector i87.
STEP 3: Using a small precision screwdriver or pin terminal tool, release and raise the lock located
on the back on the connector. The lock release points are located as (a) in the image below.
STEP 4: Insert the microphone power terminal into pin #4 of head unit connector i87.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-318-24; Date: 04/17/24
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STEP 5: Push the lock portion back into the connector. Confirm the connector is fully locked and the
newly installed wire is secure.
STEP 6: Secure the newly installed wire to the power harness with vinyl tape.
STEP 7: Bundle the reimagining three antenna connectors to +the harness with vinyl tape.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-318-24; Date: 04/17/24
Page 10 of 18
STEP 8: Reinstall all parts in the reverse order of disassembly. Remove all protective tape.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Whenever reconnecting the ground cable terminal to the battery sensor,
torque to 7.5Nm (5.5ft.-lbs. or 66inch-lbs.) while supporting the sensor with the other hand as
outlined in the applicable Service Manual under: STARTING/CHARGING SYSTSEMS > Battery
Sensor.
STEP 9: Proceed to the Function Check portion of this bulletin on page #12.
FUNCTION CHECK:
STEP 1: Connect the Subaru Select Monitor (SSM) and perform and all systems fault scan. Confirm
there are no DTCs.
STEP 2: Confirm sound is emitting from all the speakers. Pay special attention the front tweeter
speakers.
STEP 3: Confirm the microphone is working using the Service Diagnostics Mode.
A. Turn the ignition switch to ACC.
B. Press the “Tune/Scroll” knob six times while pressing the “HOME” button.
C. Select “Function Check”.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-318-24; Date: 04/17/24
Page 11 of 18
D. Select “Microphone”.
E. Confirm “Mic 1 Input Level” and “Mic 2 Input Level” are operational.
DCM RECONNECTION:
NOTE: DCM Reconnection is not part of the DCM bypass box placement procedure and needs to be
performed ONLY if the customer with a DCM bypass box installed decides to subscribe to telematics
services at some point in future.
In a case when STARLINK is to be re-subscribed for a vehicle with a DCM Bypass Box installed, the
following procedure is required.
STEP 1: Disconnect the ground terminal from the battery sensor.
STEP 2: Remove the center grille assembly.
STEP 3: Remove the heater control assembly.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-318-24; Date: 04/17/24
Page 12 of 18
STEP 4: Remove the audio assembly.
A. Remove the screws and release the clip.
B. Disconnect the connector and remove the audio assembly.
C. Cut the microphone power wire (color: red) at the end of connector i87 pin #4.
D. Bundle the cut red wire for the microphone into the vehicle harness so the cut end is
covered.
E. Remove the tape from the three bundled antenna connectors.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-318-24; Date: 04/17/24
Page 13 of 18
STEP 5: Remove the DCM Bypass Box.
A. CAREFULLY remove the mounting screws.
B. Remove the DCM Bypass Box.
STEP 6: Install the DCM.
A. Install the backup battery.
B. Install the DCM.
C. Install the audio assembly or navigation assembly.
D. Install the heater control assembly.
E. Install the center grille assembly.
F. Connect the ground terminal to battery sensor. Refer to STIS: REPAIR CONTENTS >
NOTE > BATTERY.
G. Perform the registration procedure if the DCM is replaced with a new part. Refer to
STIS: ENTERTAINMENT & MONITORING > Telematics System > OPERATION
H. Check the LED lighting condition of the Telematics button. Refer to STIS:
TELEMATICS SYSTEM > (DIAGNOSTICS) > Check List for Interview > CHECK >
LED ILLUMINATION STATUS LIST
WARRANTY / CLAIM INFORMATION:
For vehicles within the Basic New Car Limited Warranty period or covered by an active Added
Security Gold Plan, this repair may be submitted using the following claim information:
Labor Description
Labor Operation #
Labor Time
Fail Code
TEST AND REPLACE DCM WITH DCM
BYPASS BOX
B067-915
1.1
TQQ-48
The Warranty Extension for the Data Communication Module is extended from the original Warranty
term of 3 years (36 months) or 36,000 miles to 8 years (96 months) or 150,000 miles (whichever
comes first).
Original Warranty
Warranty Extension
3 Years / 36K Miles
8 Years / 150K Miles
Labor Description
Labor Operation #
Labor Time
TEST AND REPLACE DCM WITH DCM BYPASS
B067-915
1.1
BATTERY TEST & REPLACEMENT*
C800-203
.4
C800-223
.3
OR
BATTERY TEST & CHARGE - NO REPLACEMENT
Fail Code
TQQ-43
*Battery test code is required for claim entry
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-318-24; Date: 04/17/24
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Labor Description
Labor Operation #
Labor Time
WARRANTY EXTENSION – TEST AND REPLACE TELEMATICS UNIT
B067-086
.9
BATTERY TEST & REPLACEMENT*
C800-203
.4
C800-223
.3
Fail Code
ZVV-43
OR
BATTERY TEST & CHARGE - NO REPLACEMENT
*Battery test code is required for claim entry
IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
•
SOA strongly discourages the printing and/or local storage of service information as previously
released information and electronic publications may be updated at any time.
•
Always check for any open recalls or campaigns anytime a vehicle is in for servicing.
•
Always refer to STIS for the latest service information before performing any repairs.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-318-24; Date: 04/17/24
Page 15 of 18
Important Notice:
Warranty Extension for the Telematics Data Communications Module (DCM) for certain
2019 MY Legacy, Outback Vehicles
2019-2021 MY WRX/STI Vehicles
Dear Subaru Owner:
As part of Subaru of America’s dedication to customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA)
is announcing a Warranty Extension for the DCM on certain 2019 MY Legacy, Outback vehicles and
2019-2021 MY WRX/STI vehicles sold or leased in the United States.
Affected vehicles are equipped with a DCM and may experience a dead battery resulting from the
DCM continually trying to access the cellular network due to deterioration of the internal memory.
Please note that this is not a safety recall, and it does not impact the safety of your vehicle.
If your vehicle is operating as expected, you do not need to take your vehicle to a Subaru retailer for
repairs.
NOTE: No action is required by you to receive the benefit of this warranty extension. The
extension has been automatically applied to your vehicle.
DCM WARRANTY EXTENSION COVERAGE
This extension will cover the costs to install a bypass box for vehicles that are not subscribed to
STARLINK telematics or to replace the DCM for vehicles with an active STARLINK subscription.
This addresses a potential excessive battery drain if it was determined the DCM was the cause of the
dead battery. It also covers the cost of a recharge or replacement of the 12V battery resulting from
the DCM failure.
The coverage period extends the Warranty as it applies to the DCM to eight (8) years / one hundred
fifty thousand (150,000) miles, whichever comes first from the vehicle Warranty Start Date.
•
This extension will cover the replacement of the DCM for vehicles with an “Active”
STARLINK subscription if the DCM is confirmed to be the cause of the excessive dark
current draw.
•
For “Unsubscribed” vehicles, without a STARLINK subscription, with a confirmed excessive
dark current draw from the DCM, this extension will cover the installation of a DCM bypass
box.
•
Customers who received the bypass box have the option to request a replacement DCM once
new DCM inventory is available, which is estimated as September 2025. This extension
will cover removal of the bypass box and installation of a new DCM. This request must be
documented with a Subaru retailer at the time of the initial repair.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-318-24; Date: 04/17/24
Page 16 of 18
•
Inspections or repairs under this coverage must be completed prior to the expiration of the
eight-year (8) period, or before one hundred fifty thousand (150,000) miles, whichever comes
first from the vehicle Warranty Start Date.
•
Effective from the date of customer notification, ALL affected vehicles, regardless of mileage
or Warranty Start Date will be covered for a period of one (1) year.
•
All inspections and repairs must be completed prior to the expiration of this Warranty
extension.
If you have questions about this notice, please contact the DCM Warranty Extension Hotline at
877-551-7149. Additional information can be found online at: subaruclaims.autosolutionteam.
com.
REIMBURSEMENT ELIGIBILITY
•
You may be eligible for reimbursement if you paid to have your vehicle’s DCM replaced
to address a dead battery after the expiration of the original New Vehicle Limited Warranty
period, but before this announcement of this newly extended warranty period of eight (8)
years/one hundred fifty thousand (150,000) miles.
•
You must have paid an out-of-pocket expense for a repair that would have been covered had it
occurred during the warranty coverage period. This includes any deductible expense or partial
reimbursement for repairs.
•
If you have been previously reimbursed by SOA or one of its retailers for partial coverage of
this repair, only the portion that has not been reimbursed is eligible for reimbursement.
•
You are not eligible to recover any repair costs previously reimbursed or paid for by any thirdparty, including Subaru Added Security, other extended warranty providers, or an authorized
Subaru retailer.
•
The period of the reimbursement shall be one (1) year from the customer notification of this
warranty extension.
TO APPLY FOR REIMBURSEMENT
Please complete the claim form online at subaruclaims.autosolutionteam.com and attach the required
documentation listed below:
•
Attach a copy of the receipt or invoice for the repair. A copy of the repair invoice or work
order showing repair will meet this requirement. The invoice must show your vehicle model,
vehicle identification number (VIN), the name and address of the facility that completed the
repair, the cost of the repair (parts and labor), and the date the work was completed.
•
Attach proof of payment, such as a copy of the canceled check, bank statement, cash receipt,
or credit card receipt showing what you paid for the repair.
If you prefer to apply for reimbursement by mail, please send copies of the required documentation
listed above to:
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-318-24; Date: 04/17/24
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Subaru of America Inc.
DCM Warranty Extension
2670 Executive Drive
Indianapolis, IN 46261
Please allow 45 days for the reimbursement to be processed. Failure to include proper documentation
may delay your reimbursement.
Sincerely,
Subaru of America, Inc.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 15-318-24; Date: 04/17/24
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