When tackling automotive repairs, especially those involving battery disconnection, the question of using an OBD2 memory saver often arises. Available at auto parts stores like Napa, these devices promise to maintain vehicle computer settings, saving time and hassle. But are they a safe and effective solution for professional automotive technicians? We consulted with industry experts to get a definitive answer.
The consensus is clear: experts do not recommend using OBD2 memory savers for automotive repairs.
Will Latuff, manager at Latuff Brothers collision repair, plainly states, “We do not use memory savers. They are not effective or worth the risk. I-CAR also teaches not to use them.” This sentiment is echoed throughout the industry.
Jeff Peevy, director of field operations at I-CAR, reinforces this caution. “A memory saver can complete circuits that removing the battery opens in order to protect the system, and so a memory saver could put systems at risk,” Peevy explains. By design, disconnecting the battery isolates sensitive electronic systems. Introducing a memory saver bypasses this safety measure, potentially creating vulnerabilities.
The risks extend to specific repair procedures like welding. George Hogan, business development manager with Axalta Coating Systems, points out the danger of voltage spikes. “There is also likely increased risk of fault codes being stored if the circuitry is exposed to unexpected signals if the modules are ‘awake,’ powered up from either a connected battery or a memory saver installed,” Hogan warns. Welding processes can introduce high voltages and amperages that could damage or confuse vehicle electronics if systems remain powered.
Modern vehicle electronics further complicate the issue. Hogan mentions conversations with automaker engineers who highlight that some electronic systems remain active even when the ignition is off. “Think of keyless entry systems, as they are always looking for a signal from the electronic key,” he illustrates. These constantly active systems are potentially more susceptible to damage or fault introduction when a memory saver keeps circuits live during repairs.
Chuck Olsen, director of advanced diagnostics and technical support for Collision Diagnostic Services, a company specializing in remote vehicle diagnostics, firmly advises against memory savers during repairs. “A memory saver installed while making repairs provides an electrical path through the system and defeats the purpose of removing the battery,” Olsen states. He concedes that they “may be okay to use for a simple battery replacement procedure but not during other repairs.” However, given the potential for risk, even for battery replacement, many professionals avoid them altogether.
Larry Montanez, a former I-CAR instructor and collision damage analyst with P&L Consultants, LLC, and Lange Technical Services, Ltd., adds another critical perspective, emphasizing the dangers to sensitive components like airbags. “I do not recommend memory savers, nor does I-CAR,” Montanez reiterates. “Memory savers can allow airbags to deploy or allow some sensitive electronic components to become damaged. Electro-magnetic induction (EMI) can damage electronic modules. EMI can occasionally occur with MIG welding, but is very common with squeeze-type resistance spot welding, regardless of whether the battery is connected or not.” Even without direct electrical connection issues, the electromagnetic interference from welding, especially resistance spot welding, poses a threat to powered-up electronics.
Montanez further highlights OEM recommendations, noting that “many OEMs require the supplemental restraint system (SRS) modules be unplugged during welding to prevent a short to ground in the system.” This OEM practice underscores the inherent risks of live circuits during welding and the rationale against using memory savers in such scenarios.
Conclusion: Avoid Memory Savers for Automotive Repairs
The expert consensus is overwhelmingly against using OBD2 memory savers, especially during automotive repairs beyond simple battery swaps. The potential risks to sensitive vehicle electronics, ranging from fault codes and system damage to airbag deployment and EMI interference, far outweigh the perceived convenience. While available at retailers like Napa, and marketed for ease of use, professional automotive technicians are better served by adhering to established safety procedures and avoiding memory savers during repair work. Disconnecting the battery, while potentially requiring reset procedures, remains the safest and recommended practice to protect modern vehicle electrical systems during repairs.
