2018 Dodge Charger SXT 3.6L – Need Help With High-Power Audio Electrical System

[Bigg Mike]

I’m looking for someone who really knows the electrical/steering systems on a 2018 Dodge Charger SXT 3.6L.

I’m a basshead and have been upgrading the electrical system for my audio build. Before this issue happened, I had made the following electrical upgrades:

• Replaced the factory AGM 850 CCA battery with a Sriko 66Ah EVE lithium battery
• Completed the Big 4 upgrade
• Upgraded to 1/0 OFC power wiring
• Upgraded the fuse/distribution setup

The car was running fine with these upgrades.

Then I had an electrical issue while the car was sitting at my wife’s work. Since then, I’ve been dealing with active EPS/steering codes, and the steering system needs to be recalibrated.

I can perform the calibration procedure myself, but I need to get the active codes cleared with a bidirectional scan tool before I can complete the calibration.

I’ve already gone through the recommended troubleshooting and fixes. At this point, I’m mainly looking for someone with an Autel, Foxwell, AlfaOBD, or similar bidirectional scanner who knows the 2018 Charger and can access the EPS/ABS modules, clear the active codes, and perform/initiate the required calibration.

I’m also specifically interested in hearing from anyone who has experience with lithium battery and upgraded electrical systems in an LD Charger, because I want to make sure I understand exactly what happened and whether any of the electrical upgrades could be related.

Any help from someone who has actually dealt with this would be greatly appreciated.

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[CarAudio.com - Hal AI Bots]

I’m looking for someone who really knows the electrical/steering systems on a 2018 Dodge Charger SXT 3.6L.

I’m a basshead and have been upgrading the electrical system for my audio build. Before this issue happened, I had made the following electrical upgrades:

• Replaced the factory AGM 850 CCA battery with a Sriko 66Ah EVE lithium battery
• Completed the Big 4 upgrade
• Upgraded to 1/0 OFC power wiring
• Upgraded the fuse/distribution setup

The car was running fine with these upgrades.

Then I had an electrical issue while the car was sitting at my wife’s work. Since then, I’ve been dealing with active EPS/steering codes, and the steering system needs to be recalibrated.

I can perform the calibration procedure myself, but I need to get the active codes cleared with a bidirectional scan tool before I can complete the calibration.

I’ve already gone through the recommended troubleshooting and fixes. At this point, I’m mainly looking for someone with an Autel, Foxwell, AlfaOBD, or similar bidirectional scanner who knows the 2018 Charger and can access the EPS/ABS modules, clear the active codes, and perform/initiate the required calibration.

I’m also specifically interested in hearing from anyone who has experience with lithium battery and upgraded electrical systems in an LD Charger, because I want to make sure I understand exactly what happened and whether any of the electrical upgrades could be related.

Any help from someone who has actually dealt with this would be greatly appreciated.

It sounds like you've made significant upgrades to your electrical system for your audio build, and I can understand the frustration with facing issues afterwards. Let's break down your situation and see how you can proceed.

### Addressing EPS/Steering Codes

1. Active EPS/Steering Codes: These codes can occur due to various issues, including low voltage, sensor faults, or recalibration needs. Given your upgrades, it's possible that the EPS system is reacting to the power changes related to the lithium battery.

2. Using a Bidirectional Scan Tool:
- To clear the active EPS codes, you will indeed need a compatible scan tool like an Autel, Foxwell, or AlfaOBD.
- Make sure the scan tool is connected properly, and then navigate to the EPS module.
- Look for a "Clear Codes" or similar option in the menu to clear the active codes.
- Once cleared, you should proceed with the calibration process:
- Follow the calibration procedure as outlined in your vehicle’s service manual or the tool's instructions.
- Calibration generally involves straightening the steering wheel, turning it fully left to right, or following any on-screen prompts.

3. Rechecking Electrical Upgrades:
- Since you replaced the battery with a lithium option, ensure that all your connections are secure and that there are no grounding issues. Lithium batteries have different discharge characteristics compared to AGM ones.
- Check if the battery management system (BMS), if equipped, is properly configured or compatible with your vehicle.
- Ensure that your Big 4 upgrade was done correctly; all connections should be tight, and there shouldn't be any loose or corroded wires.

### Experience with Lithium Battery

• Lithium vs. AGM: Some vehicles may not tolerate lower voltage levels from lithium batteries very well. Your Charger might have systems that rely on a certain voltage range for proper operation. Monitor the voltage output after installation to ensure it meets the required specifications.
• Can Upgrades Cause Issues?: Incorrect installation or incompatibility of components (like chargers or grounds) could potentially lead to issues, especially with EPS systems, which are sensitive to electrical input.

### Next Steps

• If you're unable to clear the EPS codes yourself, you could visit a local shop or a dealer that can assist you in using their bidirectional scanner.
• Make sure to explain that you’ve made these upgrades and that you need the EPS system checked thoroughly after the codes are cleared.
• If anyone in the forum has experience specifically with the 2018 Charger and can offer help with using a bidirectional scan tool or insights on lithium battery installations, please feel free to chime in!

Let me know if you need further information or assistance as you work through this!