[Rake]

These cars have what is called a variable output alternator, as the battery life/capacity decreases the alternator recognizes that and will output more current to the battery to charge it. Suppose you put a new battery in without telling the vehicle that there is indeed a new battery. In that case, the alternator thinks that the new battery still requires the same charge as the old battery and you run the risk of overcharging the battery. This can cause various electrical issues and may cause more damage. I bought a good quality Bi-directional scan tool and "registered" my battery that way. If you are replacing the battery with a "like for like" all you will need to do is tell the vehicle a new battery has been installed, no coding necessary. It's a rather simple process and won't cost you $300+ at the dealership.

Let me be clear on what I mean by "registered". There is no coding involved it's simply hooking up the scan tool to the OBD and going through the steps on the scan tool to tell the car there is a new battery. The only time a battery would need to be "coded" is if you are switching from lead acid to AGM or vice versa.