Troubleshooting Tips for the DCA-8000P Diagnostic Charger

The GM DCA-8000P Diagnostic Charger – an Essential Tool for all U.S. dealerships – is the latest generation battery charger and tester from Midtronics that provides fast, accurate testing results. (Fig. 16) Most testing decisions are generated in two minutes or less.

 

Fig. 16

 

GM dealers who have not yet purchased a DCA-8000P will receive a unit automatically. It will be shipped between December 2024 – December 2025. Additional units ordered prior to October 1, 2025, will receive special discount pricing.

Troubleshooting Guide

With this new tool arriving in dealerships, Midtronics has produced a Troubleshooting Guide covering some operating tips for using the tool. Click below to view and print the PDF. (Fig. 17)

 

 

Fig. 17

 

Here are some basic features of the tool to keep in mind while battery testing.

Tool Setup

On the first initial power up of the DCA-8000P, users are prompted to confirm various settings, connect to Wi-Fi, and enter the dealership’s BAC code. These settings are required entries that enable automated warranty code functionality. Once setup has been completed, a tool user must be created in order to access the Main Menu. (Fig. 18)

Tool software is maintained through automatic, hands-free Over-the-Air updates via Wi-Fi. No manual updates are required.

 

Fig. 18

 

VIN Scanning

For scanning VINs, the DCA-8000P uses a handheld scanner connected to the back of the charger. Once successfully scanned, the VIN is cross referenced with the GM battery specifications stored in the charger’s database and displayed on the screen.

Diagnostic Charging

From the main menu, there are various applications to select for diagnostic charging, manual charging and administrative functions. The main application for testing and charging is the Diagnostic Charge application.

Testing Process

The testing process begins with a conductance test that measures the battery’s ability to crank the engine. Once that testing is completed, the charge acceptance test checks for the battery’s ability to accept a charge back into the battery after it has been discharged. The final testing state is additional diagnostics that check for shorts, battery defects and other failure methods. Once all diagnostics are completed, the DCA-8000P automatically goes into a charging mode.

The results screen will show: Good – charging for service; Good – return to service; or a Replace decision. (Fig. 19)

Test results can be printed or emailed by tapping Send Results.

 

Fig. 19

 

If you have questions or need assistance with the DCA-8000P, contact Midtronics toll-free at 866-592-8052.

– Thanks to Josh Shuck