My battery keeps going dead when it's not running
Hi Robert,
I don't know anything specific about this vehicle. However, vehicles made in the 90's onwards that had factory "security" devices fitted often drew significant current when in "sleep mode" - ie: the car not running. This current drain could be 10-20mA. Over time, this will flatten any battery! Typically, 7000 to 8000 hours = 156 days = 5 months.
Modern car electronics draws significantly lower current whilst in sleep mode (say 1-2mA) so the problem essentially "goes away".
Alternatively, it could be gunk and/or corrosion around door light microswitches causing unwanted drain. You could measure the battery current drain and remove the car fuses in turn to determine which circuit is the culprit. Beware - connecting a meter capable of measuring milliamps in series with a car battery takes a bit of knowledge and skill. Do it incorrectly and (a) your meter goes POOFF and/or (b) you may generate a dangerous arc/spark. Ask an auto-electrician for advice.
Kitski
SOURCE: I need a fuse panel layout for a 2005 ford focus ZX?
1 amp over an extended period (like overnight) is an excessive draw, and would drain the battery in a few days. What happens after the one minute? Does it continue to draw, or is that as long as you checked it?
If fuse F7 is the ignition off draw (IOD), then you are on the right track. The IOD serves to feed the computer's keep alive memory, the radio presets, the clock, and the alarm system. But the draw is measured in milli-amps. About 200 milli-amps or less is normal (and that is 0.2 amps), and that would not drain the battery in such a short time.
I would have a shop check this out with an ammeter and a device called a Shunt Bar. Ask for a battery drain test, or an off-draw test; well, explain your problem and have them check for too much current being used when everything is shut off.
Good luck.
SOURCE: I have a fairly new battery, but something is draining the battery over nite
L'm sure its your alternator ! he did not give the correct voltage and not charge appropriately your new batterie , just check it and you will see ! :)
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