Maintaining your car’s computer settings during battery replacement or repairs is crucial. OBD2 memory savers have emerged as a tool to help with this, and brands like Harbor Freight offer these devices. But are they a reliable option, especially for critical automotive work? As experts in auto repair, we’ve consulted with industry professionals to give you a clear picture on whether using an OBD2 memory saver, particularly one from Harbor Freight, is a safe and effective practice.
The Expert Consensus: Caution is Advised with Memory Savers
The overwhelming consensus from seasoned automotive experts is to approach memory savers with caution, and in many cases, to avoid them altogether, especially during complex 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 strong stance is echoed across the industry.
Jeff Peevy, Director of Field Operations at I-CAR, a leading authority in collision repair training, reinforces this concern. “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. The very act of bypassing the battery disconnection, which is intended as a safety measure, can introduce potential hazards.
George Hogan, Business Development Manager with Axalta Coating Systems, highlights the risk during welding, a common procedure in auto body repair. “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 notes. Welding procedures can generate voltage and amperage spikes that sensitive vehicle electronics are not designed to handle when still powered.
Why Memory Savers Can Be Problematic
The core issue with memory savers lies in their method of operation. They maintain power to the vehicle’s electrical system through the OBD2 port or another power source while the main battery is disconnected. While this seems like a convenient way to preserve settings, it also bypasses crucial safety protocols built into the vehicle’s design.
Chuck Olsen, Director of Advanced Diagnostics and Technical Support for Collision Diagnostic Services, a company specializing in remote vehicle diagnostics, succinctly captures the concern: “A memory saver installed while making repairs provides an electrical path through the system and defeats the purpose of removing the battery. They may be okay to use for a simple battery replacement procedure but not during other repairs.” The key takeaway here is the context of use. For a basic battery swap, the risk might be considered minimal by some, but for any repair work, especially involving welding or electrical system work, the risks escalate.
Larry Montanez, a former I-CAR instructor and collision damage analyst, emphasizes the potential for serious consequences. “I do not recommend memory savers, nor does I-CAR,” Montanez asserts. “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.” This highlights the danger of unexpected airbag deployment or damage to expensive electronic control units (ECUs), risks that far outweigh the convenience of preserving memory settings.
Montanez further points out OEM recommendations: “many OEMs require the supplemental restraint system (SRS) modules be unplugged during welding to prevent a short to ground in the system.” This OEM requirement underscores the inherent risks of keeping systems powered during welding, regardless of whether a memory saver is used.
OBD2 Memory Savers from Harbor Freight and the DIY User
While the brand “Harbor Freight” specifically comes into question, the concerns raised apply to OBD2 memory savers in general, regardless of the manufacturer. Harbor Freight is known for providing affordable tools, which can be attractive to DIY car owners. However, when it comes to sensitive automotive electronics, opting for the cheapest solution might not be the wisest choice.
The potential risks associated with memory savers are amplified when considering the typical user of Harbor Freight tools – often DIY enthusiasts who may have less experience with complex automotive systems. Misusing a memory saver, even a seemingly simple device, can lead to costly repairs or safety hazards.
Safer Alternatives and Best Practices
Instead of relying on OBD2 memory savers, particularly during repairs beyond a simple battery replacement, automotive professionals recommend safer and more reliable practices:
- Record Radio Codes and Settings: Manually note down radio presets, seat memory positions, and other user settings before disconnecting the battery.
- Use a Professional Scan Tool: For more complex vehicles, professional-grade scan tools often have built-in memory saving functions that are designed to minimize risks and follow OEM guidelines.
- Follow OEM Procedures: Always consult the vehicle manufacturer’s repair information for specific instructions on battery disconnection and reconnection, especially before welding or working on safety-critical systems like airbags.
- Prioritize Safety: When in doubt, always prioritize safety and avoid shortcuts that could compromise vehicle electronics or safety systems.
Conclusion: Err on the Side of Caution
While the idea of an OBD2 memory saver, especially an affordable option from Harbor Freight, might seem appealing for maintaining your car’s settings, expert advice strongly suggests they are often more trouble than they are worth. The potential risks to sensitive vehicle electronics, particularly during welding and other repair procedures, outweigh the convenience. For most situations, especially beyond a basic battery replacement, it is safer and more professional to avoid memory savers altogether and utilize established best practices for preserving or resetting vehicle settings. When it comes to your car’s complex electronic systems, erring on the side of caution is always the best approach.
