How to Reset the Active Grille Shutter Learned Values in Your Car
If your car is equipped with active grille shutters, you may occasionally need to reset the learned values so the system operates properly. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain what active grille shutters are, how they work, common issues that require resetting the learned values, and provide step-by-step instructions for various makes and models. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge and expertise to confidently reset your car’s active grille shutter system.
What are Active Grille Shutters?
Active grille shutters are an increasingly common feature on modern vehicles, especially those focused on maximizing fuel efficiency. Located at the front of the vehicle behind the grille, active grille shutters use a series of motorized vanes or slats that open and close to control airflow into the engine compartment. The primary purpose of active grille shutters is to optimize aerodynamics and engine temperature for improved performance and efficiency:
- When the engine is cold, such as during startup, the shutters close to limit airflow and allow the engine to reach optimal operating temperature more quickly.
- Once the engine is warm, the shutters can open, allowing air to flow through the radiator and cool the engine.
- At higher vehicle speeds, the shutters close to improve aerodynamics by reducing drag, thereby increasing fuel efficiency.
Active grille shutter systems are controlled by the vehicle’s computer, which uses data from various sensors to determine the ideal shutter position based on operating conditions. By optimizing airflow and engine temperature, active grille shutters can provide several benefits:
- Reduced aerodynamic drag coefficient by up to 9%.
- Improved fuel efficiency.
- Faster engine warm-up times.
- Enhanced thermal management.
- Reduced exterior noise levels.
How Active Grille Shutters Work
Active grille shutters have several key components that enable their operation:
- Shutter vanes or slats: These are the movable parts that open and close to control airflow. They are typically made of lightweight, durable materials like plastic.
- Actuator motor: A small electric motor controls the position of the shutter vanes. It receives signals from the vehicle’s computer to open or close the shutters as needed.
- Position sensors: These sensors monitor the position of the shutter vanes and provide feedback to the vehicle’s computer to ensure proper operation.
- Electronic control module: The vehicle’s computer, often referred to as the ECM (Engine Control Module), PCM (Powertrain Control Module), or BCM (Body Control Module), manages the active grille shutter system based on input from various sensors.
When you start your vehicle, the active grille shutter system performs a self-test, moving the shutters through their full range of motion to check for any obstructions or faults. If the shutters are unable to move freely, the system will set a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and illuminate the check engine light. During normal operation, the vehicle’s computer continuously monitors data from sensors such as:
- Coolant temperature sensor.
- Ambient temperature sensor.
- Vehicle speed sensor.
- Throttle position sensor.
Based on this data, the computer determines the optimal position for the shutter vanes and sends a signal to the actuator motor to adjust accordingly. For example:
- During a cold start, the shutters will remain closed to minimize airflow and help the engine reach operating temperature quickly.
- Once the coolant reaches the desired temperature, the shutters may open to allow airflow through the radiator and maintain optimal engine temperature.
- At highway speeds, the shutters typically close to improve aerodynamics and increase fuel efficiency.
Over time, the active grille shutter system learns and adapts to your driving habits and environment. This allows it to more accurately predict the ideal shutter positions for various operating conditions, enhancing its effectiveness.
Common Issues That Require Resetting Learned Values
While active grille shutter systems are designed to be reliable and self-adjusting, there are several common issues that may require resetting the learned values:
- Front end collision: If your vehicle has been involved in a front end collision, even a minor one, it can damage the active grille shutter components or cause misalignment. This may trigger DTCs and necessitate resetting the system.
- Obstruction in the shutters: Debris, such as leaves, dirt, or ice, can become lodged in the shutter vanes, preventing them from moving freely. If the obstruction is not removed, the system may set a DTC and require resetting.
- Shutter actuator motor failure: The electric motor responsible for moving the shutter vanes can fail due to wear, overheating, or manufacturing defects. If the motor is unable to position the shutters correctly, DTCs will be set, and the learned values may need to be reset.
- Wiring issues: Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring connections between the shutter actuator, sensors, and control module can cause communication errors and system malfunctions. Resetting learned values after addressing wiring issues can help restore proper operation.
- Control module reprogramming or replacement: If the vehicle’s computer has been reprogrammed or replaced due to an update or repair, the active grille shutter learned values may be lost or become corrupted. Resetting the values can help the system relearn and adapt to your driving conditions.
If you experience any of these issues, or if your vehicle sets DTCs related to the active grille shutter system, it’s essential to diagnose and address the underlying problem before resetting the learned values. Failure to do so may result in repeated system faults and reduced performance.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Resetting Learned Values
The process for resetting active grille shutter learned values varies depending on your vehicle’s make, model, and year. Always consult your owner’s manual or a professional mechanic for specific instructions. However, here are general steps that apply to many vehicles:
Tools and Materials Needed
- OBD-II scanner with active grille shutter reset function.
- Vehicle owner’s manual.
- Safety glasses.
- Gloves.
Preparation
- Park your vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine.
- Engage the parking brake and open the hood.
- Locate the OBD-II port, typically found under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
Resetting Learned Values
- Connect the OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s OBD-II port.
- Turn the ignition to the “ON” position but do not start the engine.
- Follow the OBD-II scanner’s prompts to access the active grille shutter system menu.
- Select the option to reset learned values. This may be labeled as “Reset AGS,” “Calibrate AGS,” or similar.
- Wait for the scanner to complete the reset process. This may take several minutes.
- If the reset is successful, the scanner will display a confirmation message.
- Clear any related DTCs using the OBD-II scanner.
- Turn the ignition off and disconnect the scanner.
Verification and Testing
- Start the engine and allow it to idle.
- Observe the active grille shutters during the self-test. They should move smoothly through their full range of motion.
- Take the vehicle for a test drive, ensuring the shutters open and close as expected based on operating conditions.
- Monitor for any new DTCs or system faults. If issues persist, further diagnosis and repair may be necessary.
By following these steps and adhering to your vehicle’s specific requirements, you can successfully reset the active grille shutter learned values and restore optimal system performance.
Make and Model-Specific Instructions
While the general process for resetting active grille shutter learned values is similar across vehicles, some makes and models may have unique requirements or procedures. Here are a few examples:
Ford F-150 (2015-2020)
- Connect an OBD-II scanner with Ford-specific software, such as FORScan or IDS.
- Access the active grille shutter module through the scanner’s menu.
- Select “Reset Learned Values” or “Calibrate AGS.”
- Wait for the reset process to complete and clear any related DTCs.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2019-2021)
- Use a GM-compatible OBD-II scanner, such as GDS2 or Tech2Win.
- Navigate to the active grille shutter control module menu.
- Choose the option to reset learned values and follow the prompts.
- Clear any DTCs and verify proper system operation.
Ram 1500 (2013-2018)
- Connect a Chrysler-specific OBD-II scanner, like wiTECH or StarSCAN.
- Access the active grille shutter system through the scanner’s menu.
- Select “Reset Adaptive Values” or similar option.
- Allow the reset process to complete and clear related DTCs.
Remember to consult your vehicle’s service manual or a qualified mechanic for the most accurate and up-to-date instructions specific to your make and model.
Conclusion
Resetting the active grille shutter learned values is an essential aspect of maintaining and troubleshooting modern vehicles equipped with this fuel-saving technology. By understanding how active grille shutters work, recognizing common issues that require resetting learned values, and following the step-by-step instructions provided in this guide, you can ensure your vehicle’s active grille shutter system operates at peak performance.
Remember to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual, service manual, or a qualified mechanic for make and model-specific instructions to achieve the best results. Regular maintenance, including inspecting the active grille shutter components for damage or obstructions, can help prevent system faults and the need for frequent resets. As automotive technology continues to evolve, staying informed about the systems in your vehicle is crucial for optimal performance, efficiency, and longevity.