Unexplained battery drain

Tiny
GOLDENHANDZ77
  • MEMBER
  • 2005 SATURN VUE
  • 2.2L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 180,000 MILES
If I let my car sit for more than 36 hours the battery will be drained enough that not even the automatic door locks will work. Neither with the key fob nor the switch on the driver's door. I have had the battery and the alternator tested and they both passed the test fine. My friend had suggested to check the radio as what I have is not factory just not sure how to look up the information to determine how much is being drawn when the key is off. But even then I don't think a radio would draw enough to drain the battery that far and that fast. About a year ago, I made the mistake of leaving my phone charger plugged into the aux power port (cigarette lighter for us old school types) and it took the car almost 5 days before enough juice was drained to keep the car from starting. The radio was installed over 2 years ago. Is there something I can test to find out where the drain is coming from? If so, how would I test it? I am fairly handy and can do most of my own automotive work, I am just at a loss when it comes to electrical issues.

Thank you for any help and assistance you can provide.
Thursday, December 3rd, 2020 AT 1:32 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
BMDOUBLE
  • MECHANIC
  • 1,139 POSTS
The most accurate way would be to install a digital volt/ohm meter in-line at the battery negative terminal, but this can sometimes result in blown meter fuses if you are not experience with this test. I have used a small clamp on amp meter and have had excellent results with it, and the best part is that you will not have to disconnect anything! I purchased mine online at the most popular website. Attached is a picture of a similar one. I paid less than forty dollars for mine.
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Thursday, December 3rd, 2020 AT 2:03 PM

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