Being charged for software updates question

[Miloe]

Question for the hive mind on whether this is normal or not.
Situation: Just got my Jeep back from having the 'rear locker system service' issue dealt with, at least I hope it's dealt with this time, at the local dealer.
I was informed that the Jeep had 5 software updates needed, at the total of $400. I passed on all at this time.
Just wondering if it's normal to be charged for software updates?

Jeep: 2018 with 43k on it, so out of factory warranty. Has the Chrysler Max Care in place, $100 deductible, covered the rear locker issue. No check engine lights or failure codes.

Software updates: PCM, TCM. HVAC, EPS & ABS. No TSB numbers or any details, only that it needs software updates.

Only one TSB that I am aware of not being done, is the one for the HVAC under hood fan running full tilt when the AC is on. I've purposefully not had that one done as the extra fan noise doesn't bother me and I like the AC getting cold RFN.

Thoughts?

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[flharleycop]

Wow I have not heard of that and that sucks. Seems like the factories are charging all over. My Ford F150 has automated driving which was part of the package when I bought it. I found out after getting a Software update that next year it will be a subscription service with a fee. I also heard of other brands charging for stuff like heated seats as a subscription…

 

[Xorak]

Sounds normal for out of warranty service. However, if it's not broken, don't fix it.

 

[flharleycop]

Does Jeep offer OTA updates? Or would they charge for that too?

 

[58Willys]

Wow! I would read your warranty and see if updates are covered. Then I would ask the dealer to show you what updates are needed (like update codes/numbers), why these updates are needed, and explain why they would cost $400. Should be maybe 1/2 shop time at approx $140 an hour for updates.

Sounds like a rip off to me.

 

[mwilk012]

Why does everyone expect others to work on their vehicle for free? Do your own software updates. Spend thousands of dollars on the tools to do so.

 

[TheNewGuy]

Why does everyone expect others to work on their vehicle for free? Do your own software updates. Spend thousands of dollars on the tools to do so.

So, you're saying that the updates aren't covered under the Maxcare warranty if they are part of the issue? Not being confrontational just curious.

 

[mwilk012]

So, you're saying that the updates aren't covered under the Maxcare warranty if they are part of the issue? Not being confrontational just curious.

You would have to dive into the details of that specific warranty policy for the answer to that one.

 

[Powelligator]

Couple things: What's the "Rear Locker Issue"? Next thing is that for $400 they should be very specific as to what the software/firmware upgrade actually fixes/does. That's like buying a copy of Microsoft Office for your computer, you should know what you're getting.

 

[58Willys]

Why does everyone expect others to work on their vehicle for free? Do your own software updates. Spend thousands of dollars on the tools to do so.

I never implied anyone should work for free. But $400 for a couple updates, excessive. Shop have an hourly rate, that covers the overhead cost of programmers etc…

 

[Miloe]

The dealer / warranty covered replacing the rear locker position sensor for just the deductible of $100. Max Care came through on that one.
I would have thought the dealer was asking for a deductible on each update, except that there was 5 updates and they ask for $400?
I have no problem paying for needed / required services, but I do expect a bit more info before handing someone $400. I’ll attach all of the info the service writers gave me as they couldn’t look any details (Their writing not mine)

 

[four low]

Ummm, NO

 

[Dr. RGB]

I had the software updated on my R1250R and the shop guy told me that it took 8 hours for the update to download and install, and if I had not had my factory warranty in place, I would have had to pay cash money. I guess this is the cost of more reliable vehicles, no pun intended (but totally intended).

 

[BXFXJeep]

No one should ever be paying for bug fixes, that's pure insanity.

 

[Miloe]

8 hours for a software update, ouch. Guess I’d want to recover something for the shop time too. But you’re going to have to come across with a touch more details.

Now I will give the dealer props for the free loaner Gladiator they gave me over the weekend, they didn’t have to do that.

Of course it was their 2 or 3 attempt at fixing the ’service locker system’ issue. I get them not listening to me when I told them it was the sensor that goes into the differential and the lube fouls it out, everyone probably tries to self diagnose.

1st attempt, cleaned the harness connector. That one didn’t even get me out of the parking lot before the error code popped back up.
2nd attempt, replace the sensor harness. No bueno, error still there.
So they actually called me on Friday to say the harness didn’t do the trick, sensor is on order, will be here Tuesday, we’ve got your Jeep taken apart and don’t really want to reassemble just to take it apart again Tuesday, here’s a loaner.
3rd attempt, replace sensor and no error after a week or so.

I guess the best part is, looks like jeep may finally have the locker position sensors available now, instead of the months long wait.

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