Reset Keep Alive Memory

How to Reset Keep Alive Memory (KAM) in Your Vehicle’s Modules

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How to Reset Keep Alive Memory (KAM) in Your Vehicle’s Modules

Keep Alive Memory, often abbreviated as KAM, refers to a portion of your vehicle’s memory that stays powered even when the ignition is turned off. Unlike ROM (Read Only Memory) which is non-volatile and does not require power to retain data, KAM is volatile memory (like RAM) that will lose its contents if power is disconnected.

KAM stores adaptive values and learned data that the powertrain control module (PCM) and other control modules use to optimize vehicle performance, emissions, and drivability under varying operating conditions. This includes information like idle speed, fuel trims, transmission shift points, engine timing, and more.

Why You May Need to Reset KAM

Over time, the adaptive values stored in KAM can drift from optimal due to factors like modifications to the vehicle, aging components, using lower quality fuel, or faults in related systems. This can lead to drivability issues such as:

  • Rough idle
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Hesitation or stumbling
  • Inconsistent transmission shifting
  • Increased emissions

Resetting KAM allows the control modules to relearn the optimal adaptive values for the current state of the vehicle. It’s often necessary after major repairs, clearing diagnostic trouble codes, disconnecting the battery, or reflashing the PCM. Resetting before smog checks can also help the vehicle pass emissions testing.

When Not to Reset KAM

In some cases, resetting KAM can actually cause temporary drivability issues until the relearn process completes, which may take several drive cycles. Avoid resetting KAM if:

  • The vehicle is running well with no performance complaints
  • You only disconnected the battery briefly (under 5 minutes)
  • No major repairs or parts replacement was done recently
  • Diagnostic trouble codes were not cleared

Use your judgment based on the vehicle’s symptoms and repair history to determine if a KAM reset is warranted.

Manual KAM Reset Procedure

The simplest way to reset KAM is to disconnect the vehicle’s battery and keep it disconnected for at least 5 minutes. This removes power long enough for the volatile memory to dissipate. However, disconnecting the battery also resets other memory data like radio presets, seat memory, and clock settings.

To manually reset KAM:

  1. Ensure the ignition is off and the key is removed.
  2. Locate the battery and identify the negative (-) cable.
  3. Using a wrench, loosen the nut or bolt securing the negative cable clamp to the battery post. Remove the clamp.
  4. Make sure the clamp cannot accidentally contact the battery post. Cover it or tie it aside.
  5. Wait at least 5 minutes for the KAM to fully discharge. Waiting longer (15-30 min) is okay.
  6. Reconnect the negative battery cable securely. Tighten the nut or bolt.
  7. Start the engine. It may run rough initially and the check engine light may be on.
  8. Drive the vehicle normally for at least 10 miles to allow the relearn process to begin. Avoid turning the engine off repeatedly during the relearn.

After driving about 50 miles under varying conditions, the adaptive values should be fully relearned. The check engine light should turn off on its own once all readiness monitors are set.

Resetting KAM with an OBD2 Scan Tool

For a quicker and more targeted approach that avoids losing other memory settings, you can use an OBD2 scan tool to command only the control modules you want to reset. Most professional-grade scan tools have a KAM reset function, but it may be labeled differently like “Reset Adaptives” or “Clear Learned Values.”

To reset KAM with a scan tool:

  1. Plug the scan tool into the vehicle’s OBD2 port under the dash. Turn the key on but don’t start the engine.
  2. Navigate the scan tool menu to identify the control module you want to reset (e.g., Engine, Transmission, ABS).
  3. Select that module, then find the KAM/Adaptives reset function in its menu.
  4. Follow the prompts to reset KAM for that module. It should only take a few seconds.
  5. Repeat the process for any other modules you want to reset.
  6. Clear any diagnostic trouble codes that may have been set.
  7. Turn the key off, unplug the scan tool, and start the engine.
  8. Just like the manual method, drive normally for 50+ miles to relearn the adaptives.

Using a scan tool is preferable because you can pinpoint which modules actually need a KAM reset. This avoids unnecessarily resetting unrelated modules and losing their memory data. Check your scan tool’s manual for the exact menu navigation to find the KAM reset functions.

Tips for a Successful KAM Reset

  • Research TSBs: Check if the vehicle has any Technical Service Bulletins related to KAM reset procedures. Some models may have unique steps.
  • Inspect the battery and charging system: Make sure the battery is fully charged and connections are clean before resetting KAM. Voltage drops during relearn can corrupt the values.
  • Drive in varied conditions: The relearn process needs a diversity of inputs. Drive in stop and go traffic, on the highway, uphill, with a/c on and off, etc.
  • Consider a post-reset idle relearn: For some vehicles, resetting KAM restores fast idle. You may need to perform an idle relearn procedure to recalibrate the idle.
  • Be patient: Don’t expect perfect driveability immediately after a reset. Give the modules time to gather data and fine-tune the adaptives.

By understanding what Keep Alive Memory is, when it should be reset, and following the proper procedures using a manual disconnect or scan tool method, you can optimize your vehicle’s performance after a repair or to address drivability concerns. Just be sure to research model-specific information and drive thoroughly to complete the relearn process.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What does resetting KAM do?
    Resetting Keep Alive Memory clears the learned adaptive values used by the powertrain control module and other control modules. This allows the vehicle to relearn optimal values for the current operating conditions, which can resolve drivability issues and restore performance.
  2. How long do you need to disconnect the battery to reset KAM?
    To fully drain the capacitors and volatile memory, the battery should stay disconnected for a minimum of 5 minutes. However, waiting 15-30 minutes ensures a complete reset.
  3. Will I lose my radio presets if I disconnect the battery?
    Yes, disconnecting the battery to reset KAM will also clear radio presets, seat/mirror memory, and other convenience features that rely on constant power. Using a scan tool to reset only the needed modules avoids this.
  4. Is it better to use a scan tool or battery disconnect to reset KAM?
    A scan tool allows you to surgically reset only the control modules that need it, while a battery disconnect indiscriminately resets everything. Scan tools also make it easier to initiate relearn procedures and check readiness monitors afterward. However, battery disconnection can be done without special tools if a full reset is warranted.
  5. What problems can a KAM reset fix?
    Resetting KAM can resolve drivability issues caused by learned values that have drifted over time, such as erratic idle, poor fuel economy, rough shifting, hesitation, or failing an emissions test. It’s also necessary after major repairs or clearing codes to give the modules a clean slate for relearning.
  6. Can resetting KAM cause new problems?
    In the short term, yes. Until the relearn process completes, the vehicle may experience drivability quirks like rough idle, hesitation, and uneven power delivery. Avoid excessive idling or short trips during relearn. A scan tool can show when readiness monitors are set, indicating relearn is finished.
  7. How many miles do you need to drive to relearn KAM?
    On average, driving about 50 miles under diverse conditions (city, highway, light load, heavy load) is sufficient to fully relearn Keep Alive Memory. However, some vehicles may take up to 100 miles or more. Consult service information for model-specific relearn drive cycles.
  8. What happens if you disconnect the battery while the engine is running?

    This is dangerous and should be avoided. Disconnecting the battery while running can cause voltage spikes that may damage sensitive electronics, including control modules, ignition components, and entertainment systems. Always turn the engine off before disconnecting the battery.

In Summary

Resetting Keep Alive Memory is an effective way to restore optimal performance and drivability by giving the vehicle’s control modules a fresh start to relearn adaptive values. It can resolve stubborn issues when parts replacement alone isn’t enough.

The two main methods are battery disconnection and using a scan tool. Disconnecting the battery is a straightforward way to clear all memory, but it also resets unrelated features like radio presets. A scan tool allows targeted resets of only the necessary modules.

Whichever method you choose, be sure to drive extensively and vary the operating conditions during the relearn process. A diverse data set helps the modules converge on the best adaptives more quickly. Avoid turning the engine off repeatedly or doing only short trips.

If drivability problems persist after sufficient relearn mileage, there may be an underlying fault that needs to be diagnosed. Resetting KAM is not a substitute for proper troubleshooting.

As always, consult service information and follow best practices for your specific vehicle. Reset KAM only when necessary and with a plan for completing the relearn procedure. With patience and proper technique, resetting Keep Alive Memory can restore peak performance and efficiency.

We created this blog by researching and compiling data from the following source:

Here are the citations from the provided content, along with descriptions for each link:

  1. Kelley Blue Book – P0603 Code: Internal Control Module Keep Alive Memory (KAM) Error: This page on Kelley Blue Book explains the P0603 diagnostic trouble code, which relates to issues with the Keep Alive Memory (KAM) in a vehicle’s internal control module. It provides details on what triggers this code, its symptoms, and potential fixes.
  2. AutoZone – P0603: Internal Control Module Keep Alive Memory (KAM) Error: AutoZone offers a detailed overview of the P0603 error code, highlighting its causes, how to diagnose it, and the steps to resolve the issue. This resource is useful for anyone dealing with KAM-related issues in their vehicle.
  3. CleanMPG – Resetting Keep Alive Memory (KAM): This forum thread on CleanMPG discusses the process of resetting Keep Alive Memory (KAM) in various vehicles. It includes user experiences, troubleshooting tips, and advice on when and how to perform a KAM reset.
  4. Mechanics Stack Exchange – Keep Alive Memory (KAM): A discussion on Mechanics Stack Exchange about Keep Alive Memory (KAM), including what it is, how it functions in vehicles, and common issues associated with it.