1999 Chevy Suburban Battery Drains when turned off for a fe

ROBKARLIN

MEMBER
1999 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
16,000 MILES

This is a problem that recently started on my ex's Suburban. She had already replaced the battery because it failed. In the mornings the vehicle won't crank like the starter is bad. The problem is low voltage. I checked the alternator and it is charging. I charged the battery and left it disconnected overnight. Still had a charge the next morning. What are the most common areas to look for a short on these vehicles? I have a couple of ideas and neither is pleasant. I would like to see what experiences you guys have encountered. Thanks.

Saturday, May 9th, 2009 AT 9:44 AM

3 Replies

MIKE H R

MECHANIC
3,094 POSTS

If you charge the battery and leave it connected is the charge so low that it will not start or does this happen over a period of time? You say that you checked the charging system and it is charging. Check the system when not running. The problem may be in the altinator or a short in something in the system. If you have a amp guage check the system when engine is not running or you can get it checked at most local stores like auto zone or advance auto parts.

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Saturday, May 9th, 2009 AT 10:42 AM

ALPETERSON

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I have same problem with my 1999 suburban, I narrowed the problem down to the battery circuit, a 50 amp fuse under the hood. I get 8.2ohm of resistance from hot to ground which tells me its a short in that circuit. I'm still looking and will gladly share when I find it.

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Sunday, January 23rd, 2011 AT 8:00 PM

MIKE H R