Electrical
Battery Drain
Description
The battery dies overnight or after short periods of sitting. Vehicle is slow to crank or completely dead when returning to it.
Common Causes
Parasitic electrical drain from a module not going to sleep
Failed alternator not charging the battery while driving
Worn battery past its service life
Faulty battery cable or terminal corrosion
Failed body control module (BCM) keeping circuits awake
Related Trouble Codes
P0562
System Voltage Low
High
P0563
System Voltage High
High
P0615
Starter Relay Circuit
High
P0616
Starter Relay Circuit Low
High
P0617
Starter Relay Circuit High
High
P0620
Generator Control Circuit
High
P0625
Generator Field Terminal Circuit Low
High
P0626
Generator Field Terminal Circuit High
High
Common Repairs
#1 Parasitic Drain Diagnosis
30–60 min
Varies
Easy
Use a multimeter to perform a parasitic draw test. Normal draw is under 50mA. Isolate the circuit by pulling fuses one at a time.
#2 Replace Battery
15–20 min
$120 – $220
Very Easy
A weak battery that fails load testing should be replaced. Always test charging system before assuming battery is the issue.
Parts Needed
Battery (group 48)
#3 Replace Alternator
1–2 hours
$100 – $350
Moderate
A failing alternator drains the battery while driving. Test output voltage — should be 13.5–14.8V at idle.
Parts Needed
Alternator
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Quick Info
| System | Electrical |
| Related DTCs | 8 |
| Known Repairs | 3 |