B0D87 - Understanding and Fixing the Battery Management System Error in 2015-2020 Chevrolet Volt

Quick Answer

B0D87 means: B0D87 indicates a malfunction in the Battery Management System, affecting battery performance.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $150 - $300 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with B0D87? Immediate attention is recommended to prevent further battery damage.

Common Questions

What does B0D87 mean and how does it affect my car?

B0D87 indicates a malfunction in the Battery Management System, which can lead to poor battery performance, reduced efficiency, and potential safety issues. Addressing it promptly is crucial to maintain vehicle functionality.

What are the most common causes of B0D87 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes include faulty BMS sensors, poor battery connections, or software issues. Repair costs can range from $50 for simple maintenance to $300 for sensor replacements.

Can I drive my car with B0D87 or should I stop immediately?

Driving with B0D87 is not advisable, as it may lead to battery damage and reduced vehicle performance. It's best to seek immediate diagnosis and repair.

How can I diagnose B0D87 myself using GeekOBD APP?

Using the GeekOBD APP, perform an OBD2 scan to retrieve the B0D87 code. Review freeze frame data to understand the conditions under which the code was triggered, helping you to narrow down potential causes.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by B0D87?

B0D87 is frequently reported in hybrid and electric vehicles, particularly the 2015-2020 Chevrolet Volt. Checking for recalls or technical service bulletins related to your specific model is also recommended.

How can I prevent B0D87 from happening again?

Regular maintenance of your vehicle's battery system, including checking connections and updating software, can help prevent B0D87 from reoccurring.

What is B0D87?

The diagnostic trouble code B0D87 refers to an issue within the Battery Management System (BMS) of specific electric and hybrid vehicles, particularly noted in models like the 2015-2020 Chevrolet Volt. This code indicates that the BMS has detected a malfunction, which can affect the battery's ability to charge and discharge properly. The BMS is critical in monitoring the health and performance of the vehicle's hybrid battery, ensuring optimal power delivery and preventing overcharging or deep discharging. When B0D87 is triggered, drivers may experience reduced battery life, decreased fuel efficiency, or the vehicle entering a limp mode, which limits speed and performance to protect the battery from further damage. It is vital to address this code promptly as ignoring it may lead to more severe battery issues. Repairing the root cause of the B0D87 code often involves inspecting battery connections, checking the BMS software for updates, or replacing faulty sensors. Understanding this code can help you maintain your vehicle's hybrid system efficiently and avoid costly repairs down the line.

System: B - Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when B0D87 is present:

  • The check engine light illuminates, remaining lit until the issue is resolved, indicating a malfunction in the battery system.
  • Drivers may notice a significant drop in fuel efficiency, with reports of decreased mileage by up to 20% due to the battery not functioning optimally.
  • The vehicle may enter limp mode, limiting acceleration and top speed to avoid damage to the battery, making driving experience frustrating.
  • Strange electrical issues may arise, such as erratic dashboard warnings or power windows operating slowly, signaling a failing battery management system.
  • In some cases, the vehicle may not start or may take longer than usual to start, indicating that the hybrid battery is not being charged properly.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of B0D87 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause of the B0D87 code is a faulty battery management system sensor, which has a likelihood of about 60%. These sensors monitor the battery's temperature, voltage, and state of charge, and if they fail, incorrect readings can trigger the code.
  2. Another potential cause is poor battery connections or corroded terminals, which can interfere with the BMS's ability to communicate effectively with the battery, occurring in roughly 25% of cases. Ensuring clean and tight battery connections can often resolve the issue.
  3. Software issues or outdated BMS firmware can also lead to this code being triggered, with about 10% of cases attributed to this. Regularly checking for software updates can prevent this issue.
  4. Less common, but serious, is a complete battery failure, which can lead to costly replacements if not addressed early. This is a rare occurrence but should not be overlooked.
  5. Lastly, a malfunctioning charging system can also lead to the B0D87 code, often presenting itself with symptoms like strange noises or warning lights related to the charging system.

B0D87 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Battery Management System Sensor Replacement

Replacing faulty battery management system sensors usually resolves the B0D87 code.

  • Total: $150 - $300
  • Success rate: 90%
Battery Terminal Cleaning and Reconnection

Cleaning and securely reconnecting battery terminals can often prevent the B0D87 code.

  • Total: $50 - $100
  • Success rate: 70%
BMS Software Update

Updating the BMS software can fix communication errors that trigger the B0D87 code.

  • Total: $100 - $200
  • Success rate: 80%
Money-Saving Tips for B0D87
  • Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
  • Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
  • Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
  • Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
  • Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage

Diagnostic Steps

Professional B0D87 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B0D87. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Start with an initial visual inspection of battery terminals and connections for damage or corrosion (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Start with an initial visual inspection of battery terminals and connections for damage or corrosion (5-10 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 2: Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan, retrieving all trouble codes and freeze frame data to understand the context of the B0D87 code (10-15 minutes)

Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan, retrieving all trouble codes and freeze frame data to understand the context of the B0D87 code (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 3: Step 3: Conduct component testing with a multimeter to check the voltage and functionality of battery management system sensors (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Conduct component testing with a multimeter to check the voltage and functionality of battery management system sensors (20-30 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 4: Step 4: Perform a system function test to ensure all components are operating correctly after any repairs and clear the codes (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: Perform a system function test to ensure all components are operating correctly after any repairs and clear the codes (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 5: Step 5: Complete a road test to verify that the issue has been resolved and monitor for reoccurrence of codes (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Complete a road test to verify that the issue has been resolved and monitor for reoccurrence of codes (15-20 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.

Important Notes

  • Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
  • Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
  • Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence

Real Repair Case Studies

Case Study 1: B0D87 Resolution in a 2018 Chevrolet Volt

Vehicle: 2018 Chevrolet Volt, 45,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported a persistent check engine light and decreased fuel efficiency.

Diagnosis: Using the GeekOBD APP, the B0D87 code was identified along with additional codes indicating battery management issues. Visual inspection revealed corroded battery terminals.

Solution: Battery terminals were cleaned and reconnected. The BMS software was updated.

Cost: $150 for cleaning and software update, $0 (software update covered under warranty).

Result: Customer reported improved battery performance and fuel efficiency after repair.

Case Study 2: BMS Sensor Replacement on a 2017 Chevrolet Volt

Vehicle: 2017 Chevrolet Volt, 60,000 miles

Problem: Vehicle entered limp mode, and the check engine light was on.

Diagnosis: Diagnostic testing revealed a B0D87 code and confirmed a faulty battery management system sensor.

Solution: The faulty sensor was replaced, restoring proper functionality.

Cost: $250 for parts and labor.

Result: Post-repair testing confirmed that the vehicle operated normally without any reoccurrence of the code.

Diagnose B0D87

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

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  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: B0D87
System: Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Body Codes