1999 Tahoe dies when door opens
Asked by AllsignsLLC Dec 03, 2021 at 03:37 PM about the 1999 Chevrolet Tahoe LS 4-Door 4WD
Question type: General
Jumped another car off with my 1999 Tahoe LS, 5.7engine, 4 door/4 wheel
drive. When I cranked over jumped car, Tahoe died. Now when Tahoe is
running, it dies when I open the door, turn on AC, roll windows up, etc, etc.
Stays running as long as you do not operate anything else. Alternator is good,
battery good, good ground. I'm going crazy. please, someone help!
6 Answers
Using jumper cables on any vehicle with a computer is a big NO NO, sounds like you messed up the BCM programming or even the main computer as they talk with each other, unfortunately the only place to get this sorted out is the dealership, you might get lucky and only need a reflash but don't be surprised if it winds up being a total module replacement. FYI the only safe way to jump is by using a Capacitive type jump block, Amazon sells them as do most parts stores, decent ones start at 90 bucks and go up.
AllsignsLLC answered 3 years ago
Thank you GA. I did seek out a mechanic that reflashs.....he didn't think that it would help, I'm guessing because of the year of the vehicle. Is there anything else that may come to mind...I was even thinking that maybe the anti-theft security? Maybe I burned a fuse..or something to it? What is the best way to check it, or maybe by-pass it? And thank you for the advice of the jumper cables...makes perfect sense. I will make sure that we purchase the Capacitive Jump Block as you recommended. Thank you
I am assuming you already checked for blown fuses in both boxes. Then check the alternator's diodes and voltage output under load, most places do not check those when running a test. It still sounds like the BCM is not doing it's thing with the charging circuits and your electrical power drops off when a load is applied.
AllsignsLLC answered 3 years ago
I did check all of the fuses...all good. I checked the alternator, a good steady 13.99-14. I ran another ground from the battery to the frame, just to be sure that my ground was good. I checked the inline fuse to alternator, it checked out. Question about the BCM....does it have to be programmed from factory if I purchased a new one? I believe I'll call the mechanic that reflashs and have him do it for me..... it wouldn't hurt the BCM if it didn't need it...would it?
If he can do a reflash it would not hurt it, in fact it might contain an update. If you purchased a new one it would need a flash for programming from,the dealer. Now some parts stores have a R&R service that takes your old one and sends it out and it is rebuilt and sent back to the parts store for you pick up and have flashed for your rig. Big hassle though.
