EASILY Identify Vehicle Battery Draining Problems(Parasitic)

[@electronicsNmore]

My NEWEST video on vehicle parasitic drain troubleshooting(For Late Model Cars): kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnO5npWPd92Ar9E

[@frankaragon9757]

electronicsNmore ljj

[@namzrecord6817]

Ima see if it works on my el camino

[@toweleeielite]

so.... if the current stays at .160~ then there is a short somewhere in the car? if it drops .01-.02 then all is fine, and if the battery is discharging through an internal short circuit then the current will stay high with the terminal leads disconnected? is that right? hahaahahahahahaa been a long day hahaaha ;)

[@Joeelectronicschematicsforauto]

So you're trying to make sure that the battery terminals are still connected to the post which makes sense to me but however you're afraid to lose 12 volts to awaken the modules by disconnecting the fuses you're disconnected 12 volts anyway from the modules and there are many modules on one fuse line anyway even though you said not that you see him but the ECM could be the problem LCM TCM BCM ECU so I don't understand the method being effective

[@Joeelectronicschematicsforauto]

So by disconnecting the fuse you're disconnecting the 12 volts it's the same as disconnecting the battery which is 12 volts what's the difference you could see the which one you lose the current from when you take away the fuse but many modules are connected and systems are connected to one fuse I've seen this technique by my coworkers and I never agreed with it

[@2wheelnutt]

As an electrician for over 50 years troubleshooting automated equipment and a car buff most of my life, ditto to this process. 👍

[@electronicsNmore]

Thanks for watching Lee! Be sure to look over my "Auto & Mechanical" video playlist below for many other videos of interest to you, and share. kzbin.info/www/bejne/np_HaINthMSpe7M

[@johncharleson8733]

This invasive process will not work on CAN-equipped systems or cars with extended ontime modules; in other words, it's relatively obsolete.

[@electronicsNmore]

@@johncharleson8733 MILLIONS of cars on the road that this will work just fine on. For newer cars you can leave the wires connected and use a DC A clamp meter.

[@johncharleson8733]

@@electronicsNmore I like your vids. but this one needs to be re-titled. Cheers.

[@electronicsNmore]

@@johncharleson8733 Nothing to be retitled, the video has helped countless viewers. :-)

[@bill8985]

I've watched several of these videos - you're the only one to properly describe the value of milliamps on a meter. i.e. if the meter reads "0.25" - you note that is 250 milliamps (correct) while most other vids describe that as, "25 milliamps." Glad you noted that very often the leakage is bad alternator electronics.

[@electronicsNmore]

Thanks for watching Bill! Be sure to look over my extensive video playlists below for many other videos of interest to you, and most importantly take one minute to share a link to my channel with others. kzbin.infoplaylists

[@pkr3398]

Brother, ignore any/all 'negative' comments or 'thumbs down' for this video. Your CLEAR and CONCISE delivery, plus SIMPLE troubleshooting techniques for parasitic battery drain issues should be a master template/model for all other instructional/tutorial online guides. Short and sweat. Well done, sir!

[@SirusRotv]

My mechanic did pretty much this whole video up to the fusebox, and then said for further repairs on a 300 Milliamp draw it was gonna be upwards $800

[@canadianhaitian]

There are 0 dislikes

[@SirusRotv]

@@canadianhaitian youtube just erased all the dislikes because thats what they decided would fix their algorithm

[@varcardo]

It should be called 'How To Damage The Canbus/Computers in your vehicles!!

[@preciousnic1974]

@@canadianhaitian The dislikes aren't shown. They never are on any videos.

[@henrikloiske8572]

I have been fixing cars since 1988..and i have never ever found such a smart and easy way to show how to detect parasitic draw....Very good indeed

[@jsjj4x4]

I SOOOOO agree with with the comments on your being clear and concise . I had been watching video after video on this matter and you were the one that clicked. i watched a few after yours and could actually understand them too. a breath of fresh air. I found my draw an ICP/DIC. Now up to this point I search on for what next. Wish you were here buddy.

[@jsjj4x4]

Dash cluster. Can't I get one from a wrecking yard?

[@YoungGearHeads]

We found the drain! It was a bad passenger door lock actuator. It hasn’t worked since we got the car, but the drain started 4 days ago. Replaced it and BOOM! Done. Didn’t have time to make a video on this one but thanks for your help.😀

[@electronicsNmore]

Great to hear!

[@markkolstad7076]

hey all... track down the fault...@@electronicsNmore

[@ThePLANxZ]

So I was a little confused, but I get it now. I think it would be a good idea to show this on a car that has a battery draining issue and give a demonstration. So basically, if you have a car that has this issue, when you put the reader on there the numbers won't ever drop. So by removing the fuses you are waiting to find the one that drops the meter because that is the one that is causing it to drain.

[@TheMfwhy]

Thank you, I missed that point too. This is what I was hoping to be explained.

[@oofscar9755]

So the numbers would be freaking out but if u pull the correct fuse it will drop near 0?

[@Black_Jesus3005]

Going to have to do this, this weekend. Took a few days off and my battery wouldn’t start my car. I’m hoping it’s something minor and not too expensive thanks for the info!

[@edwinwilliamson1686]

Love your delivery sir. Thank you for slowly explaining this process for someone frustrated by the vehicle always draining down. For nearly 2 months I was disconnecting the battery overnight to avoid the drain. Your video helped me find a light bulb that was activated while the car was off causing the drain. The bulb socket had a short keeping it from disengaging when the door was closed. Something so easy I couldn't have found without this explanation. Thank you sir I am now a subscriber.

[@kodybowman3054]

I wish every instruction video was this good, the world needs more people like you!

[@electronicsNmore]

Thanks for the nice comment Kody. Check out my newer video below on this subject. Thanks kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnO5npWPd92Ar9E

[@somethingspecial3410]

I just came across this video and I’m having this issue for 2 days now. Talk about opportune. Thanks for your quick video. Straight and to the point. Thanks.

[@electronicsNmore]

You're welcome! Be sure to look over my "Auto & Mechanical" video playlist below for many other videos of interest to you, and most importantly share my channel with others. Thank you kzbin.info/www/bejne/np_HaINthMSpe7M

[@electronicsNmore]

You're welcome! Be sure to look over my "Auto & Mechanical" video playlist below for many other videos of interest to you, and most importantly share my channel with others. Thank you kzbin.info/www/bejne/np_HaINthMSpe7M

[@electronicsNmore]

You're welcome! Be sure to look over my "Auto & Mechanical" video playlist below for many other videos of interest to you, and most importantly share my channel with others. Thank you kzbin.info/www/bejne/np_HaINthMSpe7M

[@chukchee]

Really good video. To the point and without nonsense and background music.

[@electronicsNmore]

Glad you enjoyed it! Be sure to rate thumbs up, and share the video link with others. Thank you

[@danielnooner3726]

I wish everybody would do videos this straightforward and to the point. You just possibly saved me an eternity troubleshooting.

[@David.lovesU]

@@danielnooner3726 what ended up being your voltage drop?

[@danielnooner3726]

@@David.lovesU Couldn't find it there. So I knew the power I ran to an amp had to be it. Found the draw on a pinched wire with a single strand grounding.

[@David.lovesU]

@@danielnooner3726 thank you for responding, I'll have to look at my amp wiring also

[@dwarren1010]

With the help of my electrician friend we were able to identify a 2.0 constant drain on my Kia Sedona 2012. Removing a 7.5 amp. This resolved the constant draining on my battery. Not sure exactly is causing a constant drain but thank for your help.

[@Chris-ru9cq]

This is literally the most helpful video I have ever watched on KZbin. I wish I had watched this before my wife talked me into a new vehicle.

[@Thoughtseaux]

So did you just change the fuse that was causing the spike?

[@Chris-ru9cq]

I actually pulled it.

[@sergedenovo2389]

Do you carry her purse? And do honey do lists?

[@eliezernegron333]

This video was made along time a go but is the best video ever from begging to end

[@electronicsNmore]

Thank you! Be sure to watch my newer video on this subject.

[@Korrupted8787]

Solid info on parasitic drain. The only thing I think you missed was you should use a jumper wire from the negative battery terminal to the negative contact to avoid rebooting all the pcm's and ecm's and having to wait up too 30+ seconds on some vehicles. When you are ready to test just hook you're meter up and then remove one end of the jumper wire.

[@electronicsNmore]

Hi there. I added an annotation to the video. If you allow the vehicle to idle a few minutes with the A/C off, and touch nothing after reconnecting the NEG cable, the computer will re-learn the settings. Thanks For Watching!

[@callumcurtis15]

Usually more than 30 seconds, I've watched some videos showing up to 45min for a full sleep on ford vehicles .

[@robertwilson9826]

The thumbs down people are not smart enough to understand. This is really good info. Thanks.

[@electronicsNmore]

Thanks Rob

[@wfg1977]

You're a genius. Your video is simple and right to the point. Not like many of others videos that they just brag about how knowledgeable they are and ended up confusing regular people like me. Thanks

[@electronicsNmore]

Thanks for watching! Be sure to check out my extensive video playlists for other great videos of interest to you, rate thumbs up, and share.

[@Thoughtseaux]

So did you just change the fuse that was causing the spike?

[@craignehring]

Haven't seen this in awhile, but older cars had a glove box light that was fused but wired so it could come on without the ignition being on. Also a SAAB I owned had a boot (hatchback) light that could get switched on and you would never know it. In the odd but true category... I worked on a car that had a fuse link between the alternator and the battery, it was a 70's Honda I recall. The link was corroded, not sure the alloy it was made from but that actually became a diode and blocked the charging current. That poor Honda was running a total loss electrical system and a new alternator did not fix the problem. All that was required to remedy that problem was a new fuse block and link element. Great tips as usual, thanks for your videos

[@electronicsNmore]

Thanks for watching!

[@davidwalter6204]

Clear, straightforward advice. Right to test without time wasting talk.

[@montemoore9040]

Simplest and most straight-to-the-point method I've seen so far. Thank you

[@Maxxis1941]

Thorough. Easy to understand and replicate. This is the way all all vehicle related how-to videos should be done.

[@davidolenick2280]

Another thing to do is to, gently touch the loose cable to the post and look and listen for a very small spark. I enjoy your videos because you are very thorough without being overly technical. I hope I get some likes on this statement because it is very important and some may not realize it. thnx

[@GroovyLuy129]

Hi David, I have z4 new battery replace install it sparks like a little burning mark after negative terminal touch the negative post. Is German car like that whereas Japanese car it feels save connecting it.

[@nadlezni]

.

[@gordbaker896]

That is normal

[@pablo6305]

I'm thanking you big time. This is simple and it sure like simple, cause in not mechanic but can't afford anyone to fix anything. Thanks again and hope you best luck in channel. Its nice when videos get to problem and shower how to fix. Not show there dog then talk about problem and then address there opinions about everything then never even show how to fix anything. Great video.

[@electronicsNmore]

Glad you liked the video! Be sure to watch my newer video on this subject below. Thanks kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnO5npWPd92Ar9E

[@garyrunningfox6115]

This will definitely help. 👍🏼 Because I am tired of my battery draining, and the cutest of diagnostics is getting very expensive. I just ordered a voltmeter to see if I can find it what's draining the battery

[@kelvinadams4877]

I never never never watch the video, someone explaining that well, thank you earned I'm subscribed.

[@electronicsNmore]

I have many like this. :-) Thanks for watching!

[@tnamen1307]

@@electronicsNmore my car battery has 12.6 v reading. But the magic eye shows white colour which indicates needs charging. So, what would be the next step to turn the magic eye to green colour?? How important is the magic eye white colour versus the voltage reading 12.6 v??

[@nonstopcustoms7077]

WOW YOU HAVE EXPLAINED IT PERFECTLY, YOU ARE A KZbin STAR MY FRIEND

[@electronicsNmore]

Thank you so much. 😀 Be sure to watch my newer video below on this subject, rate thumbs up, and share the video link. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnO5npWPd92Ar9E

[@404notfound.....]

Excellent well to the point video, but I should add this is more for older vehicles, if you pull fuses on newer vehicles you're going to wake up modules and start chasing ghosts. The more preferred way is to measure voltage drop across the top of the fuses after you have put the vehicle to sleep.

[@electronicsNmore]

My newer video on this is for newer vehicles. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnO5npWPd92Ar9E

[@MrJoshItIs]

Excellent video! Super simple. I am a hobbyist audio electronics guys but I am not super familiar with 12volt systems. This immediately made sense to me and gave me a plan to hunt down my parasitic draw in my Jeep TJ.

[@raymondbaker256]

OMG YOU ARE AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ITS THE "alternator" THE ONLY ONE WHO HAS SAID THIS!!!!!!!

[@johnstewart2210]

Great video. The only one I've seen that goes as far as to say the parasitic draw maybe your alternator, and be sure and just connect it to to look for the drop and amps.. great video

[@electronicsNmore]

Thanks John! Glad you enjoyed it. Be sure to watch my newer video on this below. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnO5npWPd92Ar9E

[@tectalabyss]

Good tip. I would add that owners should find out if unhooking the battery will cause the engine control computer and transmission control ,to lose their memory. Some newer cars have to be taken to the dealership or garage that have the equipment to re-flash the chip. On some cars/trucks the engine and transmission will act up a bit while relearning. Just a friendly tip. All my best. Bobby

[@electronicsNmore]

Good point, but usually the only thing that happens when you disconnect the battery, is any saved trouble codes in the computer will be erased. Once the battery is reconnected, you should always allow the car to idle a few minutes with the A/C off without touching the gas pedal. Doing that is important for the computer(To adjust settings). Thanks!

[@tectalabyss]

Here is one thing that can happen The security system, if your vehicle has a passive anti-theft system, usually disables the fuel pump and when you change the battery it will need to be reset so that it will recognize the coded chip in your key. Check that procedure in your Owners Manual. It only takes a minute or two to do and you can do it yourself but the procedure is different on different vehicle makes. Check your Owners Manual. There are also some cars that will lose the programming. All my best. Bobby

[@electronicsNmore]

***** All part of solving the battery draining problem, but nothing that can't be taken care of. I added an annotation to the video when you brought it up. :-) Always refer to the manual.

[@tectalabyss]

There is also a I will call it a Tool. You put a 9 volt battery in it and plug it into the cigarette lighter the lighter socket has to be wired straight to the battery,some are not thus the key needs to be on. it keeps the power going to the ECU Though it would interfere with the test.This should only be used for replacing the battery not the test. I hope this helps. :) PS I hate the new cars :) All my best. Bobby

[@electronicsNmore]

***** Yes, I know that tool. Many of these anti-theft features pose problems to the owners!

[@ThePortalNC]

Love your video I found it very helpful. I’d like to point out a few things though. An older truck like my 2000 doesn’t have a sleep mode and the bower block fuse under the hood will give you a zero reading on the digital multimeter. That was easy to figure out but a bit baffling at first. But otherwise I found your video to be clear and concise, thank you so much.

[@youaregoingtolovethis]

Good tip about checking the alternator as well. For the door switch I use a short flat piece of wood and some c clamps with rubber face so no damage to car. I clamp it on the switch. No need for assistant.

[@electronicsNmore]

Thanks for watching! Be sure to check out my video playlists, rate thumbs up, and share my channel with others.

[@scottmckenna9164]

This is the knowledgeable guidance that best educates me, step by step, hands on, with visuals. Thank you.

[@electronicsNmore]

I have many great videos on my channel covering many different subjects, so be sure to look over my extensive video playlists for other videos of interest to you and most importantly share. Thank you!

[@Integrity.is.everything]

Man thank you so much for breaking this down in everyday language. I was watching SMA and Eric was using $2000 scan tools and I was wondering if this could be done with a simple multimeter. Excellent video

[@electronicsNmore]

You're welcome! Glad you liked the video. Be sure to rate thumbs up, subscribe, and look over my extensive video playlists below for many other videos of interest to you. Taking one minute to share a link to my channel with others on social networking sites would be greatly appreciated. Thanks kzbin.infoplaylists

[@patdexter9188]

Great video. Back in the day when we rebuilt starters alternators we had the same problems. Usually it was a diode in the alternator letting power through it draining the battery. With minimal electronics then we just put a master switch in place to stop the problem and still do with heavy equipment.

[@electronicsNmore]

Always a workaround. :-) Be sure to look over my extensive video playlists for many other videos of interest to you, and most importantly share links to my videos on social networking sites. Thank you! kzbin.infoplaylists

[@tnamen1307]

@@electronicsNmore electronicsNmore my car battery has 12.6 v reading. But the magic eye shows white colour which indicates needs charging. So, what would be the next step to turn the magic eye to green colour?? How important is the magic eye white colour versus the voltage reading 12.6 v??

[@rockywr]

A very good instructional video, very well spoken and right to the point. Good tip about the door button and the interior light. Excellent.

[@electronicsNmore]

Glad you enjoyed the video! I have a lot of excellent videos on my channel that cover many different subjects, so be sure to check out my extensive video playlists for other videos of interest to you, rate thumbs up, and share my channel with others. Thank You

[@carlocastellano4069]

Can i just turn off the interior light instead of having someone to push the button?

[@Rick-ym5rv]

Thanks so much for great instructions, clear and easy, i thought i may have that problem on my Kia Sedona 2006 3.8 L but as it turns out after viewing your video i don't have a parasidic draw at all, it goes back where it should after about 60 seconds on 0.02 Cheers Rick.

[@electronicsNmore]

You're welcome! Be sure to look over my extensive video playlists for many other videos of interest to you, and most importantly share links to my videos on social networking sites. Thank you kzbin.infoplaylists

[@tocrob]

could be an on/off cycling draw.

[@scottc3165]

This was the clearest and easiest explanation on this process on youtube. Thank you. It helped me a lot.

[@electronicsNmore]

Thank you Scott! Be sure to also watch today's video on parasitic drain, especially if you have a late model car. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnO5npWPd92Ar9E

[@claypottinger7372]

Terse and accurate video. Direct and simple with no unnecessary bloviating. Well done! And kudos to the $5 meter (or free oft times) at Harbor Freight...if it it gets 'fired' at least it wasn't your Fluke.

[@electronicsNmore]

Thanks for watching Clay! I have many great videos on my channel, so be sure to look over my extensive video playlists for other videos of interest to you, rate thumbs up, and most importantly share my YT channel with many others.

[@pay9011]

Yes. I like it when videos use simple multimeters that people might already actually have at home.

[@88Frank]

Great video. I did your method and had a current of 13/14A with the car out! I blew my multimeter before having a chance to disconnect the alternator but am going to try that next

[@electronicsNmore]

Thanks. Sorry to hear about your mishap.

[@skabands]

If I had a bad regulator, would the battery light be on? Great video by the way!!

[@chrissouthwood5198]

Good clear video, thank you. Just would suggest, however, that it is not wise to wear a watch with a steel strap when working on or near an open electrical source .

[@electronicsNmore]

I have a habit of wearing my watch. :-). Glad you enjoyed the video! Be sure to watch the newer video below as well. Thanks Chris! kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnO5npWPd92Ar9E

[@brianwhite4400]

Man thank you for the very end of your video about the door I should have known when I was pulling fuses out and nothing happened thank you good video

[@sim2502]

Good easy to understand explanation, far too many overly complicated ones out there.

[@electronicsNmore]

Glad you enjoyed the video! Please share my channel with others, check out my extensive video playlists, rate thumbs up, and subscribe. Thank you

[@ronaldmoody4766]

Really well done video! We can hear you clearly and see the multimeter well.

[@electronicsNmore]

Glad you enjoyed the video Ron! Be sure to check out my wide range of helpful & informative videos for many other videos of interest to you, and most importantly share my YT channel with others. Thanks kzbin.infoc/playlists

[@brndell]

EXCELLENT VIDEO!!! couldn't have explained it any better - short to the point with video to show exactly what you were doing!!! Thanks!!

[@electronicsNmore]

Glad you liked it Brian! Be sure to check out my newer video on this subject and share. Thank you kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnO5npWPd92Ar9E

[@guevara74]

Thanks, best video I've seen explaining this issue. Simple and to the point with no BS and no freaking bg music 🤗 !!!

[@electronicsNmore]

Glad you liked it! Be sure to watch my newer video on this subject below. Thank you kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnO5npWPd92Ar9E

[@marynunn1708]

Great video. Thanks. I chased a similar battery drain over time problem on my 1995 Olds 88. It was intermittent. Took days to find the culprit. Turned out to be the automatic radio antenna wasnt stowing properly, causing the thermal overload breaker to trip. 2 amp draw for 15 seconds or so every couple of minutes was enough to drain the battery over a long weekend. Car would start when driven daily.

[@electronicsNmore]

I can definitely see that happening.

[@QRS365]

that's a good way of checking for older vehicles. newer vehicle have soo much computerised modules so by pulling fuse you may cause disruption to these modules.

[@kellylynn9295]

1.9 million views and 28k 👍 excellent video.

[@enterthepc8147]

Best video I have seen on fixing this problem! Great tips - thanks

[@electronicsNmore]

Glad you enjoyed it! Be sure to look over my "Auto & Mechanical" video playlist below for other videos of interest to you, and most importantly share my channel with many others. Thank you kzbin.info/www/bejne/np_HaINthMSpe7M

[@sirsweetness8332]

Pulling fuses on today’s cars might wake up a module giving you a false reading. Be careful. Do the voltage reading across fuses and relate the voltage to amps. Best way.

[@yeeyeediesel2273]

Finally, someone who knows what they're talking about

[@hxhdfjifzirstc894]

Johnathan Metzger Nope

[@nevermind8694]

Well made video I liked it straight forward no face time just the task at hand keep up the good work my friend

[@electronicsNmore]

Glad you liked it! Be sure to rate thumbs up, subscribe, and look over my extensive video playlists below for many other videos of interest to you. Taking one minute to share a link to my channel with others on social networking sites would be greatly appreciated. Thanks kzbin.infoplaylists

[@Jman-uh7xr]

Awesome video mate 👍 described everything like it was in a class room . And pin pointed every way possible to find the fault. Wish I watch this 3 months ago I would of pin pointed the problem on my girlfriends Mazda 3

[@electronicsNmore]

Glad you enjoyed the video! Be sure to check out my extensive video playlists for other great videos of interest to you, rate thumbs up, and share. Thank You!

[@guymonticello4129]

Thank you very much. The video that you made was extremely informative. You made it sound so simple. I learned something from your video the first time I seen it instead of going back and watch it two or three times. Once again thanks a lot I have subscribed and given a thumbs up.

[@electronicsNmore]

You're welcome Guy! Be sure to look over my "Auto & Mechanical" video playlist below and most importantly share my channel with many others. Thanks for watching and subscribing! kzbin.info/www/bejne/np_HaINthMSpe7M

[@tman571tbone6]

My meter is reading .13 at the start

[@tman571tbone6]

electronicsNmore my meter is reading.13 at the start

[@pacific7775]

Wow thats the best electricity video iv seen .cheers

[@nathanscott1315]

Great video. You cut right to the chase and hopefully helped me along.

[@electronicsNmore]

Be sure to rate thumbs up, check out my extensive video playlists for other great videos of interest to you, and share my channel with others. Also support my YT channel by bookmarking & shopping at banggood4less.com. Money saving coupon codes can be found in the video description area of my videos. Thanks for watching!

[@tnamen1307]

@@electronicsNmore my car battery has 12.6 v reading. But the magic eye shows white colour which indicates needs charging. So, what would be the next step to turn the magic eye to green colour?? How important is the magic eye white colour versus the voltage reading 12.6 v??

[@lutherfit]

Only thing I wish I could see is what the meter does when you pull a fuse linked to the drain source. But this is very helpful!!!!

[@jezr10]

Brilliant thanks I’m new to auto electrics this helped me learn more so thanks

[@electronicsNmore]

Great to hear! Be sure to check out my extensive video playlists and share my channel with others.

[@Comoestas586]

Awesome video! I suspect my alternator is draining the battery. I did your test and it read the voltage of the battery! Instead of .05 it was 12.5

[@electronicsNmore]

Thanks. Sounds like your meter wasn't set to measure current. Check out my newer video on this below. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnO5npWPd92Ar9E

[@FRANKSBESEK]

Just downright plain and simple technical information on HOW TO. You are to be commended. This was totally enjoyable. Thanks a lot. Have a great day.

[@electronicsNmore]

Glad you enjoyed the video Frank. I have many excellent videos on my channel, so be sure to look over my extensive video playlists for other videos of interest to you, rate thumbs up, and most importantly share my channel with others. Thanks!

[@johnkapel2128]

I basically had the same problem with my battery. Last month when I was on my way to the store, my car died so I got my multimeter out and I checked the voltage on the battery and it was 9.7378 Volts so I thought “what the heck is going on with this battery”, the next thing I knew I seen some smoke coming from the tips of the battery terminals. I was suspicious on what was going on and I couldn't believe it because this battery was only barely 16 years old which I consider fairly new in today's society, so basically what I want to do is try to clean up the battery with some soap and salt solution and then I might put it on the charger for two or three minutes at a high current rate just to see if it will hold a charge. I'm not sure if that's going to help the battery or not but one thing's for certain before I go out and buy a new battery, I'm definitely going to try these two methods that I suggested. Now on the other hand I could swap the battery out with one from my 1962 Chevy Tahoe but I'm not sure that my old lady would let me do that, so basically what I need to do is first, I'm going to check all the air in the tires before I monkey around with the battery. Then I'm probably going to run a few errands around town down and the next thing I want to do is get some paint and paint the battery terminals because I don't think they look very good without the neon yellow color look on them. If all goes well, I am planning to do a few other things to the terminals. Next after that chore, is get some of that distilled water and pour on the outside of the battery to try to clean up a lot of the dirt and dust its accumulated over all these years. If I have time what I'll do after that it's try to clean both sides of the mirrors on my 1965 Ford Bronco because I've noticed while I was driving that it's hard to see what kind of traffic is coming up behind me. I was having a problem with the battery when I put the headlights on low beam and then when I tried to switch the high-beam I noticed that the voltage excursions were jumping around so I went out and I bought another set of test leads to use on my digital multimeter and there was no difference at all, so I think I may borrow my friend Tony Jones's multimeter just to check those voltage excursions to see if that is normal. Nobody really explained to me how to test a DC voltage excursions when the battery is not in its prime. I am all on my own doing this. A lot of people have contacting me and they said that they've had that problem once or twice and maybe even three times in their lifetime with their batteries but they did something totally different. What they did was loosen the terminals first then they carefully remove the battery and hoisted it out to get rid of all the debris and dirt that's accumulated after all these years then they put it on a slow charge which I believe they told me was 32 milliamps for 6 days, 3 hours and 54 seconds. Next they took the battery caps off and added some distilled water, which they claimed that they bought it at their local Walmart store. I think, if I can remember correctly, they said it was .99 cents plus the sales tax. Can you believe that just 99cents? That's a real good price for one full gallon of distilled water. Speaking of water, yesterday I helped my neighbor that lives to the right side of my house, fill their swimming pool for the new season. It literally took 7 hours to fill. I am not sure how many gallons it is. I have met people in my lifetime that had no idea that there were 4 quarts of water in a gallon jug. They just assumed it was a gallon only. I am not really good at math but I do have a calculator on my cell phone. Speaking of math, it takes me back to grade 11 in high school when my teacher, Mr. Lowry gave us a sneak quiz on algebra. I failed it because I didn't understand what that was all about. I spent most of my high school time stoned and kinda out of it. Some of my classmates were very good at math, and it even showed when they got their report cards. I may have gotten of the path of whatever we were initially talking about. I think it had something to do with blue cheese. No, I remember now, it was car batteries. I never could figure out why they put car batteries in the front of the vehicle and not inside the vehicle. It would be so much easier to work on them, especially in the rain, if they were inside the vehicle. Doesn't that make more sense to you too? Well anyhow, batteries are pretty heavy for their size and some people can't lift them very good. I had a fried, Tony Smith who had asthma and once he tried to lift out his car battery, and sneezed, and the battery fell out of his hands and landed on his right baby toe. It broke the small bones in that toe of his. I called his mothers step daughter Ann but she was not home. So I then called his brothers uncle Fred and told him about what just happened to Tony's toe. He seamed like he was drunk and started laughing at me and said “I don't care about that Bast#$ds toe”. I got mad and hung up on him immediately. From that day on, I never spoke to Tony's brother's uncle Fred. I never really liked him in the first place bacause when Tony and I were 13 years old, we were at a softball game and Fred walked over to us and farted right in our faces. That was not very nice of that old pervert. I heard some stories about him when he was about 20 years old that would make you cringe if you heard them, but I can't get into that right now because I have to finish up my posting here on you tube. I hope I have given you folks some good advice on having some of your problems solved in a timely manner. I like to help out when I can if it is at all possible. I am out for 3 more hours so I want to go now and get a hot dog and a bottle of grape soda. I need to look around for a ride so I can get back to my padded room at the Sinclair Insane Asylum. I hope Dr. Dilbert will not be mad at me for sneaking out....

[@DGinNC]

Some cars take up to 20 minutes to go back into sleep mode. There's a rig you can make that will allow you to disconnect the battery after it's been connected to wait the appropriate time and switch to your meter. Keep in mind any doors remaining open, including the hood can inhibit this process and leave the vehicles computer systems awake. This will drawing more amperage and give a false indicator of excessive draw.

[@paulwilliams8056]

Thanks much for this video! Helped me tremendously!

[@Bigmack73]

Awesome, you really explained on how to do it. I have watched others, and they have way more expensive testers. I have something that is what you have used. I have had the car tested at least 3-4 times, and they have come up with nothing wrong. If nothing is wrong, then why is the battery going dead. (I keep asking that)

[@electronicsNmore]

It's possible the battery is faulty.

[@Bigmack73]

the battery has been replace about 3 times, the alternator about once

[@petkokrushev3840]

have you figured what it was? i have the same problem and it is killing me

[@johnavila7942]

Our of all the battery draw test your the only one that is explained the best 👍🏻👍🏻

[@electronicsNmore]

Thanks John! Be sure to rate thumbs up and share my channel with others.

[@zbigniewrichard8291]

Modern vehicles react when you pull fuses. Computer modules wake up and start consuming current. Your method works for old cars only.

[@homesgui_chrome9186]

Thumbs up! I have a hyundai tuscon 2010, and its been on the fritz with electrical. my battery has been drained..yesterday. its a month old, so its fairly new. my question is:Q if my battery was drained 2-3 times..does that harm the batter or its lifespan? I will try to use your technique on finding out what the problem is. Thanks!

[@electronicsNmore]

Yes, you're damaging the battery if it's being drained below 11.5V and not quickly charged back up.

[@jameswoodsist]

this is a fantastic video and should be standard in any automotive class. very clear and direct instruction, straight to the point. excellent job.

[@marie-francepoulin8571]

great trick, gonna try this first thanks lots

[@penehafomululu2550]

😲😲😲Straight to the point, thank you this helped me understand my notes better

[@jimbarron8688]

Very useful video. Clear and to the point. Thank you for posting this.

[@electronicsNmore]

You're welcome! Be sure to watch the newer video below also. Thanks kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnO5npWPd92Ar9E

[@LightWaIker]

Thank you for making this video. When you mentioned making sure if there was a good light to have it turned off the same would apply by making sure the doors and trunk are closed if lights come on in that case as well, yes?

[@electronicsNmore]

Anything that triggers a light, must be off. Thanks for watching! Be sure to look over my extensive video playlists below for other videos of interest to you and most importantly share my channel with many others.Thank you! kzbin.infoplaylists

[@NewEnglandReptile]

Very good video, on point!

[@Person.555]

Thank you for the door trick. I definitely would have forgot to do that lol

[@Dena777]

outstanding video

[@BurkaLifter]

Great Video !!! You ever heard of a faulty O2 sensor causing parasitic draw? 2008 Honda Civic , wide band B1S1 I think B1S2 might be narrow band

[@JT-SE-OHIO]

Thanks for the info. Years ago I used a 12V test light. Pull the negative terminal and put the test light between the battery and the terminal and if it light up there was a short. Pull one fuse at a time and when you got to the problem circuit the light would go out.

[@electronicsNmore]

That was an old method that many used for decades, and still do.

[@gm3mtm]

I read below you got negative comments? From this video? Wow! Thanks....great video!

[@electronicsNmore]

It's YT, there will always be Trolls, haters, and other people that find something wrong. Thanks for watching!

[@raftonpounder6696]

Just the knowledge I required to sort my power drain. Thank you.

[@electronicsNmore]

Glad it helped Shane!

[@jayc4283]

how about stuck relays? any thoughts? Thanks for a great video !!!!

[@101perspective]

On that meter, don't forget to move the red wire to the top plug. I think the red wire goes to the middle plug only for DCA settings less than 10amps. Red wire to middle also is used for all the other settings. Well, all others except checking transistors (npn/pnp)... the red and black wires aren't used for that at all of course.

[@electronicsNmore]

Yes. I was using a cheapo Harbor Freight DMM because most people won't have the higher end meters like I have. Thanks for watching!

[@ytvladnoob24]

Thankyou very much for sharing your knowledge with us.

[@dubongros3108]

Good video ! I hope the next one will focus on old security systems left behind. I have a 2003 Dodge Dakota, I know there is a Boomrang somewhere ...It drains the battery in less than 3 days ! ( in cold wheather , once the battery is dead, it freezes and one has to buy a new one )

[@electronicsNmore]

Yes. those old systems are trouble. They need to be disconnected. Buy a battery heating mat, and use it when very cold weather is expected.

[@henrymcjunkin858]

Very good been doing it that way for years it works promise ya

[@longfordboy2538]

Well done No BS I appreciate this

[@electronicsNmore]

Great to hear you enjoyed the video! I have many helpful/interesting videos on my channel that cover a wide range of subjects unlike most channels on KZbin, so be sure to look over my extensive video playlists for other videos of interest to you, and most importantly share my channel with many others. Thank you!

[@tnamen1307]

@@electronicsNmore my car battery has 12.6 v reading. But the magic eye shows white colour which indicates needs charging. So, what would be the next step to turn the magic eye to green colour?? How important is the magic eye white colour versus the voltage reading 12.6 v??

[@bobo5150]

Best video description on parasitic draw.

[@electronicsNmore]

Bobo Teabaggins Thank you! Be sure to check out my automotive and useful tips video playlists, rate thumbs up, and share.

[@louismw1]

Excellent explanation thanks

[@wyattspop]

Hoping you'd help a "disabled" dad, who can't just drop a few hundred to figure out the issue, then more for repairs/parts. A '96 Olds Aurora, battery dies in 3 days or so. Other relevant info; I notice dim headlights, the battery is a reman since new ones cost $200 (the Aurora is a V8 Northstar and a beast), my interior lights dont work, cruise control quit working, drivers side power seat (maybe unrelated I know), and not long ago I did get a KAM reading on a scantool (keep alive memory). I'll throw a load on the battery at Autozone, if the battery clears, do I start with possible charging issues or a vampire draw? (I believe the vampire draw has gone through a battery already ) Thanks so much, I can only "labor" for brief periods due to spinal injury so your info will help alot!

[@electronicsNmore]

The information contained in my video should've been more than sufficient to help you. Unfortunately I no longer assist viewers with problems for 2 reasons. I don't have the free time, and way too many viewers take for granted the help I provide. Very few people show gratitude by making a small Paypal donation to support my channel after taking the time to help them save money. I now only answer one simple question that a viewer may have. Thanks for watching

[@jamesbarton2681]

great video. i'm assuming there was no drain on this battery. i would have liked to have seen this done on a battery that had a parasitic drain on it. If there was a drain would the read out numbers been higher than the 0.02? would they be constant or would the numbers drop? If there was numbers, i'm assuming they would go away when you pull the fuse from the circuit that is causing the drain.

[@electronicsNmore]

More modern cars can be around 50mA, older cars should be closer to 20mA. If the drain is constant, then you'd see the steady load displayed on the meter. Thanks for watching!

[@HillOrStream]

My last car, which I bought used had a seemingly random drain on the battery. Turned out to be an aftermarket audio power booster amp would sometimes get confused and not shut off sometimes. Bought the car used so I didn't even know about it. Turned out if I re-entered the car after I'd shut it down, especially more than once, it would be triggered on and stay on.

[@SoCBrain]

Very clear and informative, thank you!. I already check the battery and is good, also the alternator is good, now I'll check the fuse box.

[@electronicsNmore]

Good luck!

[@michaelbyrd2611]

ty you just made it so easy to understand great y instruction video

[@192ali1]

Thank you for your good and comprehensive video. If I may, have two questions to ask you about this video. 1) When you disconnect the negative battery terminal from car, then all electrical should not be functioning. Why should one be concern about the door of the car being closed? Once one of the terminals of the battery is disconnected then there should not be any current passing through wires. Am I correct? 2) Why did you connect the red terminal, the positive terminal of the volt meter to the disconnected ground terminal of the battery? Thank you

[@electronicsNmore]

Answer to #1: The battery is still connected through the digital multimeter measuring current. If the door is left open, current would be allowed to flow, which throws off the test. For #2: I never connected the RED lead to the NEG post of the battery.

[@dtrrtd774]

The red test lead of the Harbor Freight DMM being used as an ammeter is normally connected to ground terminal of the battery cable, and the black probe is connected to the negative battery post, to get a positive reading on the DMM. It doesn't really matter with DMM's because they can read both positive or negative; it's if you had some old analog meter that you need to observe polarity, since they can only read positive values. One tip for those working with newer cars, which often have a long period of activity before the ECM and electronic circuits go back to sleep- If you disconnect the battery, you may require several minutes before it goes back to sleep and enables you to measure the standby current. Instead of disconnecting it completely to make the connection to your ammeter, the best way to do it is by inserting the test probe *through* the center of the battery terminal, and hold the other probe securely on the terminal. Then carefully pull the battery terminal off the post, maintaining constant contact with the leads between the post and the terminal. You'll then be able to get the correct standby reading immediately without having to wait for the circuits to go to sleep, as the power was not disturbed by disconnecting it. You'll just need to prep by making sure any hood switches or lights are disabled as indicated in the video, leaving the hood open for access to the battery, then go off and do other things while you allow it ample time to go to sleep. Go back after that and make the measurement, knowing it's definitely in standby mode.

[@joelund655]

Now think about that

[@jimbarron8688]

@@electronicsNmore indeed. The door circuit will be complete through the amp meter (multimeter configured as an amp meter) as it is connected in series with the cabin light load.

[@malavalentine9111]

Thank you very much for this video, it was the first one I watched on this subject. I have a 2000 Kia Sephia and I have been having this issue and I thought maybe it was going to be harder than it is. Very informative and easy to follow directions without being too technical.

[@electronicsNmore]

Glad you enjoyed the video! I have a lot of excellent videos on my channel that cover many different subjects, so be sure to check out my extensive video playlists for other videos of interest to you, rate thumbs up, and share my channel with others. Thank You

[@lutherison9895]

Great video. Thank you. My truck has two batteries though. Do I disconnect the second battery? Leave it connected?

[@electronicsNmore]

If connected in parallel, both must be disconnected. Refer to my newer video below also. Thanks kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnO5npWPd92Ar9E

[@PetrolheadAEHG]

Thank you so much, your video it helped me a lot! 👍 Found the problem in my car

[@electronicsNmore]

You're welcome Andres! Be sure to look over my "Auto & Mechanical" video playlist below and most importantly share my channel with many others. Thanks for watching kzbin.info/www/bejne/np_HaINthMSpe7M