2000 BMW 318 battery

Tiny
SWEDE 67
  • MEMBER
  • 2000 BMW 318
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 67,000 MILES
The battery on my car runs down over a few days even after the car being driven about. It's a new battery and I have tried it on my other car and on that car it keeps its charge. My garage has tested the car for charge output and says its charging OK. What can be draining the battery?
Sunday, April 13th, 2008 AT 4:36 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
MASTERTECHTIM
  • MECHANIC
  • 4,750 POSTS
The garage needs to to a parasitic draw test. This is done by installing a amp meter in series with the negqative battery terminal to find the current draw when the vehicle is shut off. This will lead them to the problem
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Sunday, April 13th, 2008 AT 7:08 AM
Tiny
MASTERTECHTIM
  • MECHANIC
  • 4,750 POSTS
Also I find that the problem is usually something simple like a glove box light light or a interior light or even a trunk light stuck on. Also check the visor lights
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Sunday, April 13th, 2008 AT 7:09 AM
Tiny
DOCHAGERTY
  • MECHANIC
  • 9,603 POSTS
I agree with Tim, the total key off draw for that car should be no more than 50 milliamps. Also, is there an aftermarket alarm? They can be problematic. Repost if more help is needed.
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Sunday, April 13th, 2008 AT 11:28 AM

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