From my personal experiences as an old phart: >Dirty battery top causing a high resistant short across the battery terminals. >A bad battery cable that couldn't carry the full load of the alternator to the battery. It had good continuity and no hot spots.
Thank you for these tips, I worked as an AA patrol for 28 years and battery problems were the most common breakdowns. Back in the 80’s I wrote to one of the biggest car manufacturers in the UK and asked them if they could fit two batteries to cars. One purely for the engine, completely separated from the ancillary battery so if any light was left on it would not affect the automotive battery. The batteries could be put in parallel if the automotive battery ever failed. They said it would cost too much - the company doesn’t exist anymore! Thank you for your video.
This is why all emergency services vehicles have this. I’m looking for something strange here. My battery is new. My alternator is new, all belts done…. Yetdead every morning. Don’t understand what it could be 🤔
On modern cars, if you leave the headlights on, they will automatically turn off after a short time parking. Also, make sure to close doors/trunk and lock your car, so that the car's computer knows to turn all the lights and electronics off.
That is true but for some reason if you put on your low beams the car lights do not shut off. Which I don't understand 🤔 it will shut off if you manually turn off the lights and if you forget it and it will shut off if you put it on automatic BUT for some weird reason if you put the low beam headlights on they don't shut off automatically.
Great video !! I was born and raised in the car/truck business ! 99% of the time it's always the bad/corrosion on battery cables !! Go to the trouble of removing both cables from the posts and clean them with a cleaner/sand paper Emery cloth or something like that then reassemble and coat with grease or install anti corrosion felt washers that you can buy at any auto parts house
I am very lucky. I drive a vintage vehicle. When I turn off the ignition, nothing is on at all. Two years ago I had several surgeries. My vehicle sat an entire year plus a month. When I felt I could drive my vehicle again, she fired right up. This makes the battery last a veey long time. However, I do not have remote start, keyless entry, radio with memory, alarm, cameras, location beep, nor anything else. But I can open my windows without turning on the ignition.
Me too! Great, aren't they? Plus you can work on them yourself and never pay any overpriced mechanic to find faults that don't exist. Oh, the wonders of times past hey? ;)
That sounds so great. However it’s impossible to get this as all new cars that are sold now have these things that drain the battery if it’s not driven very often like it can die over a long weekend. It’s so frustrating when the car battery is constantly dying on you when you need to use the car and then having to be replace every few months from the constant jump starts. I wonder if there’s any hope to stop this without driving the car or even extend the period
My dad had an old Audi (early 80s) with the battery under the back seat - not as easy to access as the video shows. My brother had a 300M that had the battery in the drivers side wheel well - Now that was a real pain !
Dave at Everyman Driver continues to deliver with great, fun, informative, and engaging videos without all of the excess pretentiousness of some other channel formats. Everyman Driver has been my top TH-cam car channel for vehicle/feature review overviews for more than six years. Thank you very much for all of the great videos.
my first look in those days by the car is " what is that ? an chinese trashcan ? well well 15mA continious over days cleanup the power source too " ...even when the canbus decoder is pulled away 😁
A short drive will not ruin your battery. Unless you’re taking 100 yards. A short drive with your fan blowing full blast WILL. If you only drive a couple miles at a time never run your fan on high and your battery will last much longer.
@@Nightrunnergunner short answer is definitely yes. I’ll give you my personal experience. My Tacoma was 8 years old when I changed jobs from a 30 mile drive to a two mile drive to and from work. (Original battery) That was in October. By late November my truck would just barely start. Normally I would just buy a new battery at this point but since I worked so close to home I tried an experiment. I stopped using anything nonessential that would use power on my drive to and from work. Within a few days it was starting like normal again. I ran that battery for a full year after that. So from my experience the most important thing to do is just simply be mindful of your battery as you would your tires, oil or coolant.
One thing not mentioned is the alternator is not replacing the right amount of current while operating your vehicle and good to have some one or yourself to test the alternator's out put. Also check the the belt's tentioning to move the alternator. I had to have my alternator replaced and decided to have the belts changed as well. The battery now works more efficiantly. Also my battery is not the standard 12volt because I have many features than can disrupt a lower 12 voltage battery. Mine uses a 13volt battery. Running a car radio with the engine off drains the batteryTurning on head lights before warming up your car and recharging the battery from your alternator can drain your battery over time. I usually wait ten to 15 mins before I turn on my accessories and head lights and repeat the process in reverse to turn off accessories to let the car idle for 10 minutes before turning off the engine and in this way when I repeat these steps the battery gets the full 20 minutes of recovery time between 10 minute sessions.
Kudos for the Video! Apologies for butting in, I would love your thoughts. Have you ever tried - Rozardner Powerful Battery Reality (Sure I saw it on Google)? It is a good one off product for learning how to recondition an old battery without the headache. Ive heard some unbelievable things about it and my GF got astronomical results with it.
Consider the warranty on a new replacement battery. I had purchased a Duralast Gold from Autozone last Spring for my truck. It died completely last week and a 24hr recondition charge wouldn't bring it back. Autozone provided free replacement with a new warranty beginning date and gave me $25.00 cash, although I had not voiced any complaints. Fair winds and following seas to all.
Thank you. 2024 and I have new Outback Premium that had this problem. Thankfully there was a recall on the part! Still grateful to know all this info as I am clearly still in shock on why my car shut down on an interstate! No hazard lights, windows closed , but thankful to be safe
My new battery not even beyond 2 months yet since I bought and it already died 3 times. I am ashamed to keep asking motorists around for a jump help. Today, just replaced to a higher version. It was installed 55 to 85. Which normally, i had it at 70. Will c how it works in the coming days.
Great Tips and thanks for the video. Only doing short trips with our 2nd car was the issue on my Civic. After a charge. The battery went for about another 2 to 3 months. Now every once in awhile I take it for a good ride.
Good video. One point I would like to make is, and it’s a Huge miss conception in the automotive world. A alternator is Not designed to charge the battery. Yes, the alternator will give back a “surface charge” on the battery. It will not charge up a dead battery. In fact you can ruin an alternator with a bad battery. The battery is designed to start the vehicle, run small electric components when the vehicle isn’t running (as Dave mentioned), and also acts as a “shock absorber” for the electrical system. That’s it. All electrical needs come from the alternator, when the vehicle is running. Volts is your electrical pressure, amps is your electrical flow. A new battery is 12.6 volts. If a battery falls to 12.3 volts it is only 50% charged. You need the alternator to push at least one volt higher than the battery, electrical pressure. That reading should be 13.6 volts minimal and 15 volts the highest. Please don’t try to charge a dead battery by driving your car. There’s a reason they sell battery chargers ;) Automotive electric rebuilder, 10+ years experience. I really like this channel. Good reviews. I’ve actually used some of the reviews towards a few vehicle purchases. Nice work Dave! 👍🏻.
Take also take in consideration the car key. If your car has a keyless option, keeping the key close enough to the care overnight, the key will continuously communicate with the car computer and will keep your car computer on. That could drain your battery enough to not be able to start the car. This happened to me with a Seat Leon mk4 2020
Noted. Noted. I appreciate the feedback. By the way, try this "Car Shopping Made Easy" website: quotes.everymandriver.com It’s a free site for the LOWEST prices both NEW and USED cars and trucks in your zip code: quotes.everymandriver.com Try it.
Just last year I sold my 1997 Buick LeSabre. 8 years before I had a current drain I just could not isolate or find. It was 2 Amps and that will kill off a battery after a few weeks. I pulled all fuses, relays, etc. and just could not isolate the issue. So I bought a battery Kill switch. When I parked the car, I turned the switch and problem "fixed". Many cars do not like constantly cutting power to the various devices, ECMs, etc. But my Buick outlasted the switch. The switch actually lasted about 7 years and then it kind of fails due to the current surges at power on and power off.
The battery on my 2011 Chevy HHR is in the rear right next to the spare..the good thing about that is the factory battery lasted 8 years!...probably because no under hood engine heat or cold to kill it early
Wish my problem was one of these... even my good mechanic can't figure it out. 2011 Honda Accord EX-L and that sucker very slowly drains until it eventually can't start. Makes the commute to work at 7 am a crapshoot. Have to make sure I charge it at least once a week. DRIVING ME INSANE
I appreciate the feedback. By the way, try this "Car Shopping Made Easy" website: quotes.everymandriver.com It’s a free site for the LOWEST prices both NEW and USED cars and trucks in your zip code: quotes.everymandriver.com Try it.
My Jeep wrangler had a finicky TIPM totally integrated power module. It’s basically a computer slapped onto the fuse block and makes the car do fun stuff. The wipers creep up the windshield, the air conditioner stops the blower motor when the TIPM overheats. It’s fun. I just use my JK to run around the small farm so I just live with it.
I love my GMC Envoy just for this reason!! It turns off all lights left on & while vehicle is running accessories only when engine is off such as radio it will cut the amplifiers power when too much load Is detected! I find that pretty awesome! Great job GM!
Well , my 02 GMC Envoy left me stuck . Started fine at home , then totally dead when attempting to leave destination . So completely dead couldn't remove key or open rear glass! Yet 10AMP Charger said fully charged in less than an hour , and car started , sounds like a job for Ghostbusters . I think the Envoys have electrical system problems .
@@waldipup9010 hi this is caused by the "anti theft" system. If its below 50 degrees it seems to be worse. If you clean or replace the ground (ribbon) it wont dont that.
My car starts and drives no problem, but as soon as the engine/alternator isn't running it but the battery is, it will drain like a hole a water container. People have said it could be my alternator but now that I think about it it doesn't make sense since the alternator is off during that time, also considering I have the original battery and my car is from 2016 which is past 4 years. I'll just replace it and see what happens.
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0:36 parasitic drain (how do i test excess parasitic drain?). 1:25 defective alternator ex bad diode (how do i get bad diode tested?). 1:47 extreme temperatures over 100f. 2:09 excessive short drives, it'll wear out faster.
I think my issue on my 02 crv is number 4 , (bad alternator diode) I used to think it was due to cold weather since it only dies when it’s cold out, but I’ve changed out the battery twice to new ones in the course of 3 months
1:40 That's it! Car seems to run fine, battery tests fine but alternator test at the alternator gives random voltage. If the battery is charged and sits overnight it's dead.
If you wanted to be more specific I thought it was funny when there was a drain on the battery and it turned out to be the glove box was shut but it was still burning and you couldn't see the light
I tell people often they have to drive their car for 30min to recharge after a start. I see corroded connections all the time. It's amazing how people see corrosion and tell me it's normal. Mice are another issue. Where I live, customers bring in cars all the time with electrical issues because mice love to chew on wires. Here lately, battery quality has declined. More and more batteries aren't holding up.
They also have battery testers that shows if its good- bad -low &recommendation - recharge + retest or replace & has an alternator tester as well makes it easier to dianose,Cen-Tec 12 volt Alternator& Battery Tester
Our Chevy Tahoe had a parasitic drain. It was in the radio. The memory circuit that has continuous power even when the key was off. I pulled the radio fuse. Then found another fuse that only gets power when the key is on and ran a jumper wire from there to the radio fuse. So the radio only gets power when the key is on. The drawbacks are you can’t save presets because the memory is erased every time you turn the key off and the clock isn’t saved. We use a Bluetooth music device anyway so it’s no biggie.
That's one of many reasons i won't touch anything Fiat Chrysler Dodge Jeep -- made like garbage & stupid engineering like a battery under a seat. Give me a break.
Yea Fiat sux and how long have they been in business. Think about all the automotive companies that made it 1 or 2 years but not Fiat. This is like saying a NBA player sux...hold on bro he beat the odds to actually put a jersey on and sit on the bench how many would give their right nut to do that. I'm saying there is bad and good in every company or occupation but Fiat has made some really good machines (not only cars). Just look at Ford...
my car only drives me to the grocery store once a week, so every two weeks i put a 2 amp battery charger over night..It gets the battery what it wants, and i get a well maintained battery on a car that does not drive far once a week al
Buy a cheap "trickle charger" that provides 2 to 4 amps when the vehicle isn't being run often. There are also solar panel "trickle chargers" that can be mounted on the roof of some vehicles, like vans, and some are made to be mounted on the dash or in the rear window.
I used to work for Ford back in the 80's and had Towncar come in every month with a dead battery. Never did find anything wrong with it and talked to the owner. He kept his auto lights adjusted all the way to the max so he could get into his house at night and only had the problem when he left his car at the airport when going on 1-2 week trips. I suggested he turn off his timer because the draw would weaken his battery and after sitting that long without starting it wouldn't recover from the draw. I never saw him again until the shop did service calls a few months later to see why he didn't return and told him forget my advise. The following week the car was back with the same problem and 3 other people looked at it and found nothing wrong. Shortly after that I went round & round with the service manager because he kept setting timing on a car using the mag riming notch and I told him that mark was only if you had a scope with the proper probe that there was another mark he had to use with a light and he told me I was stupid because he was a super master tech and knew everything, so I quit and went to work somewhere else where people actually knew what they were doing. Some people think just because they pass a test they know which end of a wrench to hold. At another shop I worked at They hired a new master tech and paid him way more than the rest of us who worked there for years and were also masters. He was just out of school and passed the test. His first car was a jeep no-start, he worked on it for a week replacing sensors and computer but all it would do was crank. We refused to help him because they wouldn't give us a raise or cut his pay down to our level. We knew what the problem was from day 1 but kept laughing at the know it all pro. After a week the manager asked us what we though and we all said why don't the pulleys turn when cranking? So he ended up putting a flywheel in it and it left. Shortly after he quit and we were all satisfied.
That's a very F/U design with the batteries in the cab compartment. We had an army 5 ton that had a generator overcharge the 4 huge 12 volt batteries that were in paired series/parallel, two banks of 12 volt parallel in series for a high amp 24 volt system. We were on a 10 hour drive across Germany and didn't realize we were being gassed from the cooking batteries off gassing into the cab until we both started getting raw throats, coughing uncontrollably, screaming headaches and finally pulling over to puke our guts out. When we felt like going back to the cab to check things out we noticed a steady stream of white cloud coming from the back of the cab body outside, it was the vent from the bench style battery compartment under the passenger/middle seat. The motorpool mechanic said that the batteries were so hot, that they were still nearly boiling the next morning after the truck being towed to the nearest post and battery caps removed in the shop to check them. They wound up waiting another 2 days letting them cool before removing them while they got the new replacement batteries and new generator replacement. The older 5 ton trucks had generators instead of alternators that had to be "tuned" to the right output voltage with a hex key adjusting a trim potentiometer built into the generator. The generator on our truck had this trim potentiometer go bad and no matter how it was adjusted it put out almost twice the voltage on a 24 volt system, hence the overcooked batteries. The "vent on the back of the cab wall was an attempt to keep battery off gassing out of the cab and outside instead, it didn't work.
@@peterpiper5914 more and more of the modern small cars are leaning toward this to help "climate control" the batteries to help extend their life, and obviously the smaller they get the less places engineers have for something that takes up so much cubic inches in design.
I have encountered several that were half dead on the shelf at the store. After six months, the store is supposed to top them up because when they go below 80% charge they start to sulfate, cutting their life in half. I have learned to test their charge level BEFORE installing, because even a very low charge will start the car, and then the alternator destroys the evidence of low charge on the shelf. The stores have a $1000 pocket tester that says the battery is normal, and it must be the car's fault, but after testing all what you mention, it still died in a few days. I put it on the shelf at home 100% charged with no connection and it died by itself. Told the store to not trust their stupid tester.
I saw an episode on Gilligan's Island where Thurston proclaimed that "batteries should be made to last and to last and to last". Until he found out the battery in question was made by Howell Industries. LOL
I’m really impressed by the newer AGM batteries, I think almost every vehicle with start/stop will have one of them. Mine lasted nearly 10 years that came from the factory. But it only has to start a small three cylinder
I bought a regular Interstate lead acid battery for my Hemi Ram truck that lasted 12 years and was still putting out enough power to start the truck. I was getting concerned that when it did finally go it would just totally die in a heartbeat and I didn't want to get stranded somewhere so I traded it in for a new one. It was almost a friend to me I had it so long...
I love how you explain it. I just what to add the "battery drain" where as the top of the battery has much acid that why negative and positive pole "shorted". and that is also one of the reasons why the battery keeps draining.
Thank you this video was very helpful . I think I will be taking it to our mechanic. I was thinking it might be the alternator you just verified this for me thank you!!!!
I live in Michigan, I take my battery out every fall put it on the picnic table and scrub it down with a Hot bucket of soapy water. On average my batteries last me almost 9 years !
Thank you for the information . 🙏 I liked the video and subscribed. Unfortunately it looks like I'm gonna have to take my suv to a mechanic because I can't find what's draining my battery after replacing the starter, alternator and getting a used but good battery. It's outta my control now. Gonna leave it up to the pros.
Batteries normally last around 4 to 5 years. A sign that is getting weak, is that the dash lights seem dimmer than normal and that the car takes longer than usual to start.
Modern vehicles have a heavy draw keeping all the computers and cameras alive... if a car isn't going to be used for a week or more, it might pay to put it on a trickle charger or even disconnect the battery negative... the cars with auto start/stop eat batteries like they are going out of style too... they need special high CCA batteries to survive... if people replace the $600 battery for a 'Walmart Special' ... then the auto start will kill it quickly. That auto start also kills starter motors... so, best to turn it off imo
Sometimes it’s non of these reasons. The dealer installed battery on my car was just too weak for the car. This is from factory. Upgrading the battery by just one size got rid of the problem. Strange and stupid mistake from the car brand.
My biggest parasitic drain was from the 3rd party security device (similar to LOJACK) I had installed when I bought the car. I had to replace the AGM car battery twice in 3 years before realizing it was the security device that was killing it.
Very good video explaining the electrical system. YOU FORGOT TO MENTION A BATTERY TENDER for your battery when not using? The computer system has a very low drain also.
Excessive short drives. My work place is only 10-15mins away from my house. But on Saturdays I do drive it around for 20-30mins to run some errands or groceries. Would that help the battery last longer?
I found that many times people are too lazy to properly fasten the battery post end attachments. What end up happening is that the battery cable and it's clamp are just tightened around the top and flush with the the battery post. Since there is a slight slope on the battery post the battery post clamp cannot fully tightened around this battery terminal area. To fix this simple mistake just take a small dowel and a hammer and tap the battery post clamp till it is flush with bottom of the battery post. Then tighten the battery nut and bolt clamp at this wider battery post point. this will give the battery post a much better fit and enable the battery's current to pass through the posts and terminals as easily as possible.....
I HAVE A 75 VETTE I LEAVE THE BATTERY IN THE CAR FOR EVER,, ITS BEEN IN THERE 10 YRS I DRIVE THE CAR 4 TIMES A YR,, NEVER ANY PROBLEM ,, ITS JUST A REG GM BATTERY,,, ALSO I HAVE A 12 BOSS 302 IT HAS THE SAME BATTERY NO ISSUES,,, ///
Regarding #6 - Lots of short trips - would this mean that a car with the auto engine start/stop feature could be problematic if you do a lot of city driving? I'm about to get a new car that has this feature and now wondering if I should turn it off every time I drive?
Once a car’s engine is warm the starter motor uses less current and the alternator can put out enough current to keep it charged. It’s best to have a AGM (Advanced Glass Mat) battery fitted as these can withstand being drained without becoming damaged. It’s likely that you will be able to turn the ‘Stop Start’ system off. It’s quite common on cars these days to be able modify different systems but sometimes it may have to be done by the dealer.
I have a CR-V diesel that has auto stop start. I bought the car from new and the EFB battery only lasted three and a half years so when I bought a replacement battery, I kept turning the auto stop / start function off after starting the car. Three and half years later my replace battery is almost dead so turning the function off hasn’t made much difference.
Glad it was helpful! I appreciate the feedback. You should try quotes.everymandriver.com for Insider Access to Dealer Pricing! Negotiate your next car deal for FREE! See the best deals/prices on NEW and USED cars/trucks in your zip code! Check it out quotes.everymandriver.com today!
Power window switch’s can also cause a pretty quick parasitic drain if these switches get stuck in the up or down position even slightly you may not hear the steady clicking noise . My Aveo did this I’d shut it off go inside a store coke out ten fifteen minutes later and my car battery dead. Finely one day driving I heard that clicking I thought had a rock in my tire pulled over & finely found it was coming from dam switch cause button was slightly up still after I’d closed window
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My battery is 2 years old. I’m retired & don’t drive much or long enough when I do. I think this is my problem. How would I fix this. How often & long would I have to drive to stop jumping my car. Thank goodness I have a Halo that easily jumps my car.
You should also keep the top of the battery wiped off every now and then… Especially if it’s leaking a little bit. That’s the main reason the battery terminals get corroded.
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This guy is a 🐐 he doesn't talk about how he was at lowes with his grandma and the battery died etc straight to the point I like this guy cheers....
From my personal experiences as an old phart:
>Dirty battery top causing a high resistant short across the battery terminals.
>A bad battery cable that couldn't carry the full load of the alternator to the battery. It had good continuity and no hot spots.
Thank you for these tips, I worked as an AA patrol for 28 years and battery problems were the most common breakdowns.
Back in the 80’s I wrote to one of the biggest car manufacturers in the UK and asked them if they could fit two batteries to cars. One purely for the engine, completely separated from the ancillary battery so if any light was left on it would not affect the automotive battery.
The batteries could be put in parallel if the automotive battery ever failed.
They said it would cost too much - the company doesn’t exist anymore!
Thank you for your video.
Actually there are a couple of cars that do just this. For example VW Touareg V10 diesel.
A
That's given me a good idea for if I where to make my automotive company
This is why all emergency services vehicles have this. I’m looking for something strange here. My battery is new. My alternator is new, all belts done…. Yetdead every morning. Don’t understand what it could be 🤔
@@jamiewalker8772 wiring, fuse, belts , tensioner
On modern cars, if you leave the headlights on, they will automatically turn off after a short time parking. Also, make sure to close doors/trunk and lock your car, so that the car's computer knows to turn all the lights and electronics off.
That is true but for some reason if you put on your low beams the car lights do not shut off.
Which I don't understand 🤔 it will shut off if you manually turn off the lights and if you forget it and it will shut off if you put it on automatic BUT for some weird reason if you put the low beam headlights on they don't shut off automatically.
I've subscribed as a form of respect for how quickly you get to the point.
Same here.
He looks like John Cena lol
@@rstuff1605 I can’t c him
Yea thats one thing I look for....keep it simple
Literally same
Great video !! I was born and raised in the car/truck business ! 99% of the time it's always the bad/corrosion on battery cables !! Go to the trouble of removing both cables from the posts and clean them with a cleaner/sand paper Emery cloth or something like that then reassemble and coat with grease or install anti corrosion felt washers that you can buy at any auto parts house
Just like my dad taught me.
Thanks.
Corrosion seems to be due to battery placement. Those placed in interior areas like the one shown have no corrosion.
@@mikestudmuffin4549 He doesn't know. He's not a real mechanic. Just a TH-cam wannabe.
@@mikestudmuffin4549I have the same issue so hopefully someone can answer.
My battery draining after one week not driving it second battery only last 6 weeks . Toyota said something draining it . Something in the wiring
I am very lucky. I drive a vintage vehicle. When I turn off the ignition, nothing is on at all. Two years ago I had several surgeries. My vehicle sat an entire year plus a month. When I felt I could drive my vehicle again, she fired right up. This makes the battery last a veey long time. However, I do not have remote start, keyless entry, radio with memory, alarm, cameras, location beep, nor anything else. But I can open my windows without turning on the ignition.
Me too! Great, aren't they? Plus you can work on them yourself and never pay any overpriced mechanic to find faults that don't exist. Oh, the wonders of times past hey? ;)
That sounds so great. However it’s impossible to get this as all new cars that are sold now have these things that drain the battery if it’s not driven very often like it can die over a long weekend. It’s so frustrating when the car battery is constantly dying on you when you need to use the car and then having to be replace every few months from the constant jump starts. I wonder if there’s any hope to stop this without driving the car or even extend the period
Try disconnecting the negative when not going to be using for days or longer I did this to one of my cars and it lasted over 8 years .@@RaynaZ-y
What a stupid place to place a battery really under the seat.this engineer's are getting out of hand with this designs
i was thinking the same thing
This could be Italian car
They don’t won’t you to service it yourself so they stick them in the stupidest areas
My dad had an old Audi (early 80s) with the battery under the back seat - not as easy to access as the video shows.
My brother had a 300M that had the battery in the drivers side wheel well - Now that was a real pain !
@@mike60521x Hmm.. battery under the back seat next to a fuel tank.. oh what could go wrong lol
Dave at Everyman Driver continues to deliver with great, fun, informative, and engaging videos without all of the excess pretentiousness of some other channel formats. Everyman Driver has been my top TH-cam car channel for vehicle/feature review overviews for more than six years. Thank you very much for all of the great videos.
This is arguably the most concise and clear explanation ive seen on youtube. Please keep up the good work
Thx
my first look in those days by the car is " what is that ? an chinese trashcan ? well well 15mA continious over days cleanup the power source too "
...even when the canbus decoder is pulled away 😁
Just replaced the battery in my 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan. It lasted ((15 years)). Replaced it with the same type---Thanks Les Schwab !
Wow Which battery is this ?
@@abn_tj2207 It is Les Schwab`s 34/78 XTREME POWER BATTERY, rated for 84 months, with 800 CCA`s, & cost $164.
A short drive will not ruin your battery. Unless you’re taking 100 yards.
A short drive with your fan blowing full blast WILL. If you only drive a couple miles at a time never run your fan on high and your battery will last much longer.
ill keep that tip in mind, but does short drives really prematurely drain battery ?
@@Nightrunnergunner short answer is definitely yes. I’ll give you my personal experience.
My Tacoma was 8 years old when I changed jobs from a 30 mile drive to a two mile drive to and from work. (Original battery) That was in October. By late November my truck would just barely start. Normally I would just buy a new battery at this point but since I worked so close to home I tried an experiment. I stopped using anything nonessential that would use power on my drive to and from work. Within a few days it was starting like normal again. I ran that battery for a full year after that. So from my experience the most important thing to do is just simply be mindful of your battery as you would your tires, oil or coolant.
One thing not mentioned is the alternator is not replacing the right amount of current while operating your vehicle and good to have some one or yourself to test the alternator's out put. Also check the the belt's tentioning to move the alternator. I had to have my alternator replaced and decided to have the belts changed as well. The battery now works more efficiantly. Also my battery is not the standard 12volt because I have many features than can disrupt a lower 12 voltage battery. Mine uses a 13volt battery. Running a car radio with the engine off drains the batteryTurning on head lights before warming up your car and recharging the battery from your alternator can drain your battery over time. I usually wait ten to 15 mins before I turn on my accessories and head lights and repeat the process in reverse to turn off accessories to let the car idle for 10 minutes before turning off the engine and in this way when I repeat these steps the battery gets the full 20 minutes of recovery time between 10 minute sessions.
I like this new format. To the point and informative.
Kudos for the Video! Apologies for butting in, I would love your thoughts. Have you ever tried - Rozardner Powerful Battery Reality (Sure I saw it on Google)? It is a good one off product for learning how to recondition an old battery without the headache. Ive heard some unbelievable things about it and my GF got astronomical results with it.
It got my like instantly
Consider the warranty on a new replacement battery. I had purchased a Duralast Gold from Autozone last Spring for my truck. It died completely last week and a 24hr recondition charge wouldn't bring it back. Autozone provided free replacement with a new warranty beginning date and gave me $25.00 cash, although I had not voiced any complaints.
Fair winds and following seas to all.
Thank you. 2024 and I have new Outback Premium that had this problem. Thankfully there was a recall on the part! Still grateful to know all this info as I am clearly still in shock on why my car shut down on an interstate! No hazard lights, windows closed , but thankful to be safe
My new battery not even beyond 2 months yet since I bought and it already died 3 times. I am ashamed to keep asking motorists around for a jump help. Today, just replaced to a higher version. It was installed 55 to 85. Which normally, i had it at 70. Will c how it works in the coming days.
Great vid! I thought you were the former NFL coach Jim Mora for a sec!
That's a first. LOL
Great Tips and thanks for the video. Only doing short trips with our 2nd car was the issue on my Civic. After a charge. The battery went for about another 2 to 3 months. Now every once in awhile I take it for a good ride.
Good video. One point I would like to make is, and it’s a Huge miss conception in the automotive world. A alternator is Not designed to charge the battery. Yes, the alternator will give back a “surface charge” on the battery. It will not charge up a dead battery. In fact you can ruin an alternator with a bad battery. The battery is designed to start the vehicle, run small electric components when the vehicle isn’t running (as Dave mentioned), and also acts as a “shock absorber” for the electrical system. That’s it. All electrical needs come from the alternator, when the vehicle is running. Volts is your electrical pressure, amps is your electrical flow. A new battery is 12.6 volts. If a battery falls to 12.3 volts it is only 50% charged. You need the alternator to push at least one volt higher than the battery, electrical pressure. That reading should be 13.6 volts minimal and 15 volts the highest. Please don’t try to charge a dead battery by driving your car. There’s a reason they sell battery chargers ;) Automotive electric rebuilder, 10+ years experience.
I really like this channel. Good reviews. I’ve actually used some of the reviews towards a few vehicle purchases. Nice work Dave! 👍🏻.
Take also take in consideration the car key.
If your car has a keyless option, keeping the key close enough to the care overnight, the key will continuously communicate with the car computer and will keep your car computer on.
That could drain your battery enough to not be able to start the car.
This happened to me with a Seat Leon mk4 2020
Noted. Noted. I appreciate the feedback. By the way, try this "Car Shopping Made Easy" website: quotes.everymandriver.com It’s a free site for the LOWEST prices both NEW and USED cars and trucks in your zip code: quotes.everymandriver.com Try it.
Just last year I sold my 1997 Buick LeSabre. 8 years before I had a current drain I just could not isolate or find. It was 2 Amps and that will kill off a battery after a few weeks. I pulled all fuses, relays, etc. and just could not isolate the issue. So I bought a battery Kill switch. When I parked the car, I turned the switch and problem "fixed". Many cars do not like constantly cutting power to the various devices, ECMs, etc. But my Buick outlasted the switch. The switch actually lasted about 7 years and then it kind of fails due to the current surges at power on and power off.
The battery on my 2011 Chevy HHR is in the rear right next to the spare..the good thing about that is the factory battery lasted 8 years!...probably because no under hood engine heat or cold to kill it early
This is damn good. Full of knowledge. All the things I already knew but had forgotten. 10/10. Quick and straight to the point.
Professional, direct and to the point.
Very much appreciated!
Thank you!
The best and most direct video tips I have ever seen... 👍🏼🙏🏼💪🏼
Wish my problem was one of these... even my good mechanic can't figure it out. 2011 Honda Accord EX-L and that sucker very slowly drains until it eventually can't start. Makes the commute to work at 7 am a crapshoot. Have to make sure I charge it at least once a week. DRIVING ME INSANE
I appreciate the feedback. By the way, try this "Car Shopping Made Easy" website: quotes.everymandriver.com It’s a free site for the LOWEST prices both NEW and USED cars and trucks in your zip code: quotes.everymandriver.com Try it.
My Jeep wrangler had a finicky TIPM totally integrated power module. It’s basically a computer slapped onto the fuse block and makes the car do fun stuff. The wipers creep up the windshield, the air conditioner stops the blower motor when the TIPM overheats. It’s fun. I just use my JK to run around the small farm so I just live with it.
I love my GMC Envoy just for this reason!! It turns off all lights left on & while vehicle is running accessories only when engine is off such as radio it will cut the amplifiers power when too much load Is detected! I find that pretty awesome! Great job GM!
BREAKING NEWS: ALL late model cars and trucks have BMS systems that do that! Even my lowly '13 Focus has that STANDARD!
Well , my 02 GMC Envoy left me stuck . Started fine at home , then totally dead when attempting to leave destination .
So completely dead couldn't remove key or open rear glass!
Yet 10AMP Charger said fully charged in less than an hour , and car started , sounds like a job for Ghostbusters .
I think the Envoys have electrical system problems .
@@waldipup9010 hi this is caused by the "anti theft" system. If its below 50 degrees it seems to be worse. If you clean or replace the ground (ribbon) it wont dont that.
My car starts and drives no problem, but as soon as the engine/alternator isn't running it but the battery is, it will drain like a hole a water container. People have said it could be my alternator but now that I think about it it doesn't make sense since the alternator is off during that time, also considering I have the original battery and my car is from 2016 which is past 4 years. I'll just replace it and see what happens.
This keeps happening to us I will have to get it check I don't drive far and use the car once or 2 times a week. And I have to jump start it.😇😎
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0:36 parasitic drain (how do i test excess parasitic drain?). 1:25 defective alternator ex bad diode (how do i get bad diode tested?). 1:47 extreme temperatures over 100f. 2:09 excessive short drives, it'll wear out faster.
07 denali has been KILLIN me with that problem.Ive read that some 07-12 models have this problem smGDh.
Good information my mechanic can't figure out what is draining my battery he had it 2 weeks
Same I’ve been to 4 and no one can figure out why my dash stays lit prompting foot engage to start. It does it until car is dead
‘16 Chrysler 300s btw
Possible Causes:
1. Human Error (light on)
2. Paristic Drain (faulty wiring, defective fuses, etc)
3. Faulty Charging
4. Defective Alternator
5. Extreme Tempature
6. Execissive Short Drives
7. Corroded or Lose Battery Cables
8. Old Battery (Replace 3 to Four Years)
I think my issue on my 02 crv is number 4 , (bad alternator diode) I used to think it was due to cold weather since it only dies when it’s cold out, but I’ve changed out the battery twice to new ones in the course of 3 months
Thanks for the information. My car is in the shop getting diagnostic test done. I'm keeping my fingers crossed and I'll let you know.
Gordonsnc what was wrong with your car?
@@NamiJ22 still in the shop monique lol
Most new cars the headlights will go off automatically
yeah but a lot of cars have some stuff that isn't auto off like trunk , map reading lights glove box vanity mirrors etc
1:40 That's it! Car seems to run fine, battery tests fine but alternator test at the alternator gives random voltage. If the battery is charged and sits overnight it's dead.
If you wanted to be more specific I thought it was funny when there was a drain on the battery and it turned out to be the glove box was shut but it was still burning and you couldn't see the light
I like this very direct & informative video no BS just plain OL tips for car enthusiast!!! 👌👌👌
thank you. no crying, no bitching.... straight to the point. subscribed
I tell people often they have to drive their car for 30min to recharge after a start. I see corroded connections all the time. It's amazing how people see corrosion and tell me it's normal. Mice are another issue. Where I live, customers bring in cars all the time with electrical issues because mice love to chew on wires. Here lately, battery quality has declined. More and more batteries aren't holding up.
They also have battery testers that shows if its good- bad -low &recommendation - recharge + retest or replace & has an alternator tester as well makes it easier to dianose,Cen-Tec 12 volt Alternator& Battery Tester
Our Chevy Tahoe had a parasitic drain. It was in the radio. The memory circuit that has continuous power even when the key was off. I pulled the radio fuse. Then found another fuse that only gets power when the key is on and ran a jumper wire from there to the radio fuse. So the radio only gets power when the key is on. The drawbacks are you can’t save presets because the memory is erased every time you turn the key off and the clock isn’t saved. We use a Bluetooth music device anyway so it’s no biggie.
That's one of many reasons i won't touch anything Fiat Chrysler Dodge Jeep -- made like garbage & stupid engineering like a battery under a seat. Give me a break.
To me that is a crazy place to put a battery. They belong under the hood
@lightningsmokerXx : that’s actually Mercedes Benz design. ML and GL models had their battery under the passenger seat way before JGC did.
Mercedes-Benz, BMW puts the battery in the trunk
Renault is the worst I have found
Then fiat.
Yea Fiat sux and how long have they been in business. Think about all the automotive companies that made it 1 or 2 years but not Fiat. This is like saying a NBA player sux...hold on bro he beat the odds to actually put a jersey on and sit on the bench how many would give their right nut to do that. I'm saying there is bad and good in every company or occupation but Fiat has made some really good machines (not only cars). Just look at Ford...
any tips on keeping your battery alive for people who take short trips a lot, don't drive much?
my car only drives me to the grocery store once a week, so every two weeks i put a 2 amp battery charger over night..It gets the battery what it wants, and i get a well maintained battery on a car that does not drive far once a week
al
Buy a cheap "trickle charger" that provides 2 to 4 amps when the vehicle isn't being run often. There are also solar panel "trickle chargers" that can be mounted on the roof of some vehicles, like vans, and some are made to be mounted on the dash or in the rear window.
I used to work for Ford back in the 80's and had Towncar come in every month with a dead battery. Never did find anything wrong with it and talked to the owner. He kept his auto lights adjusted all the way to the max so he could get into his house at night and only had the problem when he left his car at the airport when going on 1-2 week trips. I suggested he turn off his timer because the draw would weaken his battery and after sitting that long without starting it wouldn't recover from the draw. I never saw him again until the shop did service calls a few months later to see why he didn't return and told him forget my advise. The following week the car was back with the same problem and 3 other people looked at it and found nothing wrong. Shortly after that I went round & round with the service manager because he kept setting timing on a car using the mag riming notch and I told him that mark was only if you had a scope with the proper probe that there was another mark he had to use with a light and he told me I was stupid because he was a super master tech and knew everything, so I quit and went to work somewhere else where people actually knew what they were doing. Some people think just because they pass a test they know which end of a wrench to hold. At another shop I worked at They hired a new master tech and paid him way more than the rest of us who worked there for years and were also masters. He was just out of school and passed the test. His first car was a jeep no-start, he worked on it for a week replacing sensors and computer but all it would do was crank. We refused to help him because they wouldn't give us a raise or cut his pay down to our level. We knew what the problem was from day 1 but kept laughing at the know it all pro. After a week the manager asked us what we though and we all said why don't the pulleys turn when cranking? So he ended up putting a flywheel in it and it left. Shortly after he quit and we were all satisfied.
That's a very F/U design with the batteries in the cab compartment. We had an army 5 ton that had a generator overcharge the 4 huge 12 volt batteries that were in paired series/parallel, two banks of 12 volt parallel in series for a high amp 24 volt system. We were on a 10 hour drive across Germany and didn't realize we were being gassed from the cooking batteries off gassing into the cab until we both started getting raw throats, coughing uncontrollably, screaming headaches and finally pulling over to puke our guts out. When we felt like going back to the cab to check things out we noticed a steady stream of white cloud coming from the back of the cab body outside, it was the vent from the bench style battery compartment under the passenger/middle seat. The motorpool mechanic said that the batteries were so hot, that they were still nearly boiling the next morning after the truck being towed to the nearest post and battery caps removed in the shop to check them. They wound up waiting another 2 days letting them cool before removing them while they got the new replacement batteries and new generator replacement. The older 5 ton trucks had generators instead of alternators that had to be "tuned" to the right output voltage with a hex key adjusting a trim potentiometer built into the generator. The generator on our truck had this trim potentiometer go bad and no matter how it was adjusted it put out almost twice the voltage on a 24 volt system, hence the overcooked batteries. The "vent on the back of the cab wall was an attempt to keep battery off gassing out of the cab and outside instead, it didn't work.
Super Duper f/u design Who the hell makes this vehicles? 🤦
@@peterpiper5914 more and more of the modern small cars are leaning toward this to help "climate control" the batteries to help extend their life, and obviously the smaller they get the less places engineers have for something that takes up so much cubic inches in design.
@@peterpiper5914 The new Pico cars will probably have you holding the battery in your passengers lap.
I have encountered several that were half dead on the shelf at the store. After six months, the store is supposed to top them up because when they go below 80% charge they start to sulfate, cutting their life in half. I have learned to test their charge level BEFORE installing, because even a very low charge will start the car, and then the alternator destroys the evidence of low charge on the shelf. The stores have a $1000 pocket tester that says the battery is normal, and it must be the car's fault, but after testing all what you mention, it still died in a few days. I put it on the shelf at home 100% charged with no connection and it died by itself. Told the store to not trust their stupid tester.
Thanks ! I love the way you get to the point fast 😊
Solid info thaNKS
Thank you. I hope this is what my problem is.
I saw an episode on Gilligan's Island where Thurston proclaimed that "batteries should be made to last and to last and to last".
Until he found out the battery in question was made by Howell Industries. LOL
Doug N always laughed at the rechargIng system he devised-
“Alright everyone, stir your coconuts !” 😂
How funny can fix your car new stock joker I don't like you smell project zorgo 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤭🤭😆😋🤣😮🤣😮🤣💩😮🤣😮😆😮🤣💩🤣😮💩💩💩🤣💩😆😂😮🤣👿😆😮😋😄😋😋😁
The diode!! I can’t count how many times I have fought with people telling my it’s not the alt. They had it tested at autozone
I’m really impressed by the newer AGM batteries, I think almost every vehicle with start/stop will have one of them. Mine lasted nearly 10 years that came from the factory. But it only has to start a small three cylinder
I bought a regular Interstate lead acid battery for my Hemi Ram truck that lasted 12 years and was still putting out enough power to start the truck. I was getting concerned that when it did finally go it would just totally die in a heartbeat and I didn't want to get stranded somewhere so I traded it in for a new one. It was almost a friend to me I had it so long...
Great info, and thanks for having No annoying back ground music, Cheers
Great Video! Useful information every car owner should know. Thanks.
I love how you explain it.
I just what to add the "battery drain" where as the top of the battery has much acid that why negative and positive pole "shorted". and that is also one of the reasons why the battery keeps draining.
Thank you this video was very helpful . I think I will be taking it to our mechanic. I was thinking it might be the alternator you just verified this for me thank you!!!!
I live in Michigan, I take my battery out every fall put it on the picnic table and scrub it down with a Hot bucket of soapy water. On average my batteries last me almost 9 years !
A faulty alternator relay can drain your battery too,it happened to me ,the diodes were good though.
Thank you for the information . 🙏 I liked the video and subscribed. Unfortunately it looks like I'm gonna have to take my suv to a mechanic because I can't find what's draining my battery after replacing the starter, alternator and getting a used but good battery. It's outta my control now. Gonna leave it up to the pros.
Batteries normally last around 4 to 5 years. A sign that is getting weak, is that the dash lights seem dimmer than normal and that the car takes longer than usual to start.
Modern vehicles have a heavy draw keeping all the computers and cameras alive... if a car isn't going to be used for a week or more, it might pay to put it on a trickle charger or even disconnect the battery negative... the cars with auto start/stop eat batteries like they are going out of style too... they need special high CCA batteries to survive... if people replace the $600 battery for a 'Walmart Special' ... then the auto start will kill it quickly. That auto start also kills starter motors... so, best to turn it off imo
Thanks didn't think about the possibility of a bad diode in the alternator, appreciate it.
Sometimes it’s non of these reasons. The dealer installed battery on my car was just too weak for the car. This is from factory. Upgrading the battery by just one size got rid of the problem. Strange and stupid mistake from the car brand.
Omg THANX for not waffling on and just getting to the point!! Refreshing
Thank you for the information and for getting straight to the point. Definitely subscribing
Thank you.
Seems like everybody's having Battery problem these days with these new cars
You’re welcome.
My biggest parasitic drain was from the 3rd party security device (similar to LOJACK) I had installed when I bought the car. I had to replace the AGM car battery twice in 3 years before realizing it was the security device that was killing it.
How did you correct the issue?
@@ryansanders7604 The subscription to the service had expired so I simply disconnected the power to the device.
Thank you for the video.
Agreed, thank you for not talking about pointless garbage like the other youtube people!
Great point about narrator efficiently delivering “wealth of information”. Thank you. Aedin
What's considered a short drive? 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 miles?
Very good video explaining the electrical system. YOU FORGOT TO MENTION A BATTERY TENDER for your battery when not using? The computer system has a very low drain also.
Excessive short drives. My work place is only 10-15mins away from my house. But on Saturdays I do drive it around for 20-30mins to run some errands or groceries. Would that help the battery last longer?
Thanks for the info Dave
Been having battery drain for 3 weeks with new alternator last week battery passes as good battery drain while driving can be recharged then driven
I found that many times people are too lazy to properly fasten the battery post end attachments. What end up happening is that the battery cable and it's clamp are just tightened around the top and flush with the the battery post. Since there is a slight slope on the battery post the battery post clamp cannot fully tightened around this battery terminal area. To fix this simple mistake just take a small dowel and a hammer and tap the battery post clamp till it is flush with bottom of the battery post. Then tighten the battery nut and bolt clamp at this wider battery post point. this will give the battery post a much better fit and enable the battery's current to pass through the posts and terminals as easily as possible.....
Great Job keeping it plan and simple thank you 👍
A big power drain is those car models that keep the headlights on for extended periods after you turn off the ignition.
I HAVE A 75 VETTE I LEAVE THE BATTERY IN THE CAR FOR EVER,, ITS BEEN IN THERE 10 YRS I DRIVE THE CAR 4 TIMES A YR,, NEVER ANY PROBLEM ,, ITS JUST A REG GM BATTERY,,, ALSO I HAVE A 12 BOSS 302 IT HAS THE SAME BATTERY NO ISSUES,,, ///
LTO batteries are great for cold weather states, down to 30 degrees Celsius
My Ford Fusion times out so when you return it doesn't need a jump even if you accidentally leave the lights on. You can not leave them on
Thank you for info, quick, concise, and covered what was needed.
Regarding #6 - Lots of short trips - would this mean that a car with the auto engine start/stop feature could be problematic if you do a lot of city driving?
I'm about to get a new car that has this feature and now wondering if I should turn it off every time I drive?
Once a car’s engine is warm the starter motor uses less current and the alternator can put out enough current to keep it charged.
It’s best to have a AGM (Advanced Glass Mat) battery fitted as these can withstand being drained without becoming damaged.
It’s likely that you will be able to turn the ‘Stop Start’ system off. It’s quite common on cars these days to be able modify different systems but sometimes it may have to be done by the dealer.
I have a CR-V diesel that has auto stop start. I bought the car from new and the EFB battery only lasted three and a half years so when I bought a replacement battery, I kept turning the auto stop / start function off after starting the car. Three and half years later my replace battery is almost dead so turning the function off hasn’t made much difference.
after you start your car unconnect battery while its running. if car doesnt die alternator is working. if it dies alternater is bad
This is so informative- thank you so much 🔥
Glad it was helpful! I appreciate the feedback. You should try quotes.everymandriver.com for Insider Access to Dealer Pricing! Negotiate your next car deal for FREE! See the best deals/prices on NEW and USED cars/trucks in your zip code! Check it out quotes.everymandriver.com today!
My wife's Nissan note is 10 years old and so is the battery I have tested it and it's working perfectly that is what I call a dam good battery
Can using a car charger for your phone drain the car battery?
Power window switch’s can also cause a pretty quick parasitic drain if these switches get stuck in the up or down position even slightly you may not hear the steady clicking noise . My Aveo did this I’d shut it off go inside a store coke out ten fifteen minutes later and my car battery dead. Finely one day driving I heard that clicking I thought had a rock in my tire pulled over & finely found it was coming from dam switch cause button was slightly up still after I’d closed window
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Another great video by Dave
Amtrak videos using car batteries to power AC outlets without a inverter box
Concise and to the point. I'll be watching more.
Did you make the update video? Thanks for the knowledge shared.
My battery is 2 years old. I’m retired & don’t drive much or long enough when I do. I think this is my problem. How would I fix this. How often & long would I have to drive to stop jumping my car. Thank goodness I have a Halo that easily jumps my car.
Amazing video, I’m subscribing
You should also keep the top of the battery wiped off every now and then… Especially if it’s leaking a little bit. That’s the main reason the battery terminals get corroded.
Thanks ! I knew all that except the diode in the alternator! Do u know if a large oil leak on half of the alternator will cause unwanted charging?
I guess I have to get a new battery coz it’s been more than 4 years now that’s why it keeps draining. Thanks for the info.
Thank you. I appreciate the feedback. By the way, you NEED to try this “Free Car Shopping" website: quotes.everymandriver.com See the best deals on NEW and USED cars in your area from qualified dealership! You’ll get Insider Access to Dealer Pricing in your zip code! Click here to start saving big: quotes.everymandriver.com! 🌟