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[Jebiruph]

Eric, the ESS system is a side-effect of carbon taxes mandated by the EPA. Automotive companies are being forced to raise CAFE numbers and lower emissions output as best they can in order to minimize paying for carbon credits.

Nearly all ICE powerplants from all manufacturers now have some type of ESS system. At least on all models that don't meet these federal mandates.

The primary ESS design flaw with the JL implementation without the eTorque (48v) system is using two dissimilar sized batteries. Whoever thought that this was a good idea is clearly a moron and should have their engineering credentials revoked.

The complexity appears to stem from a rush to get something (anything) supporting ESS into the 2018 Model Year, likely to meet new green regulations. This certainly seems to be a 'thing-on-a-thing', a bolt-on afterthought rather than a comprehensive concept from program start.

Unfortunately, it looks like FCA (Stellantis) has wagered that as crappy as this design is, as long as it performs during the warranty period, we'll then, it's good enough.

[Edit]
As a sidenote, I just replaced my main battery with a 650 cold cranking amp (CCA) rated AGM battery after 3 years and 50K miles on my 2019 3.6L Sport. My ESS system had been struggling with "Battery Charging" and "Battery Protection Mode" Complaints for quite a while. The dealership replaced the AUX under extended warranty but wouldn't replace the main. After another month of the same issue, I just replaced the Main on my own; screw the dealership.

I've had zero problems with my ESS since. My alternator output has now dropped from between 14.5 and 14.7 to the upper 13 volt range. I also now see a good 1.5 miles per gallon increase in fuel economy. I'm back up to 22mpg with my 35's.

I guess, every two or three years will require a battery replacement of both. This frustratingly stupid idea of dissimilar batteries will likely ensure it.

I'd consider the over-the-top expensive Genesis solution if it wasn't for the six cycle ESS limit. I'm certain one could rewire their implementation to make it more factory compatible but I can replace both batteries three or four times and still have a lower operating budget.

I'd have thrown in the towel altogether if I didn't love this JL so much. Other than this crappy ESS design disaster, the Jeep itself is way cool and a fribben blast to drive.

Jay

FCA's 2 battery ESS system was not developed for the JL, it was first used in some 2016 models. If you're interested in which vehicles use the same system, look up the Power Control Relay on a Mopar parts website to see all the vehicles that use it.

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[Go Outside]

The radio failure was coincidental. The Maestro stereo adapter fried during the battery swap somehow.