key off current draw, 850

Post by **JimBee** » 05 May 2013, 15:49

When I connected my ground cable after the car had been sitting for a couple of months, I noticed a little spark with the key not in the ignition and doors closed. I think that might have killed my battery when I left the key on for 2 hours to re-code the radio.
Question: Can a key off current draw be traced through the fuse panel? Any other easy way (please???).
A hearty thank you for a quick method!

Post by **BEJinFbk** » 05 May 2013, 16:43

I'd consider that leaving your key on for 2 hours is what may have killed a poorly charged battery.
If you need to recode the radio, maybe run the car for 2 hours instead of just letting it discharge?
Go for a nice drive - Get out - See the sights.
Or perhaps put it on a battery charger
while you leave the key on?
Just some thoughts.

Post by **jblackburn** » 05 May 2013, 22:19

A small spark is normal when reconnecting the battery.

You can test for current draw on a properly charged battery across the terminals. It should be <35-45 mA. If it's higher than that, yank fuses until you find out what's drawing current.

mynoralvarez · Post by **mynoralvarez** » 07 May 2013, 14:17

Just my experience... I had a faulty switch in the glovebox that kept my car's battery diying for over a month... just for curiosity removed the bulb and Voilá no more running out of battery so you might want to check if that is your issue.

holyjaguar · Post by **holyjaguar** » 07 May 2013, 22:14

Yep me Too,I use a folded tissue to "fool"the glove box switch,rather than remove the bulb in my already dimly lit glove box,.....