![]() ![]() We have seen many cars where a phone adaptor or a dash cam is left plugged into a power plug that is always on, draining the battery.Īftermarket remote start units, trailer wiring modules and audio units often cause additional load that drains the battery faster.Īnother common problem is when the transmission range switch doesn't work properly. ![]() It's too high for this vehicle and the owner had to boost the battery every time the vehicle was parked for more than 2-3 days.Ĭommon problems causing excessive parasitic current draw For example, in the vehicle in the photo, the current draw shows 0.068 Amps which is 68 milliamps (0.001 Amp is equal to 1 milliamp.). If the electric current from the battery remains excessive even after 10-15 minutes or the time that is specified, it will cause the battery to drain sooner. Car makers specify the acceptable parasitic current draw in milliamps and how soon it should drop. However, after 10-15 minutes, all electric modules in the car go into sleep mode and the current from the battery drops. Initially, when the car is turned off, some of the electric modules stay on, drawing higher electric current (up to several Amps). The multimeter is set to Amps and is typically connected in series between the battery and the negative cable. ![]() How do mechanics measure parasitic current drawīattery with a multimeter or a special tester according to the factory service manual instructions, when the car is turned off and all electrical devices and lights are off. If the current draw is higher, the affected circuit/device must be identified and repaired or replaced. Your mechanic can measure the parasitic current draw and see if it's within the limit specified by your vehicle's manufacturer (typically around 50 milliamps). In an average car this parasitic current draw doesn't exceed 20-30 milliamps (mA), which is normal. When the car is parked, some of the electrical systems such as the security system, the clock, smart access key and various modules that have memory presets, such as the radio, remain powered on drawing a small amount of electric current. If it's a newer vehicle, your local dealer should be able to assist you. Any reputable repair shop with access to wiring diagrams and factory service manual or a brand dealer can check your car for parasitic current draw.
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