xr8 ute battery goes flat after 2 weeks of just sitting?

[wasim]

Battery is brand new and if the car sits idle for 2-3 weeks the battery is flat - any clues?

Regards, Wasim

[raceteam]

Glove box light?

[snap0964]

Are the doors closed but left unlocked ?

[wasim]

Doors are locked and the glove box isn't on nor is anything else?

Just as a hunch it wouldn't be anything to do with starter motor - it's turning over slowly and I have a replacement to go in.

Thanks for the quick replies.

Regards, Wasim

[snap0964]

Well I suppose you can disconnect the Batt +ve, hook a meter on the lead and the +ve post and measure the current flow with the car locked. The tech section has the fuse cct feeds - start pulling fuses and see which accessory section the current draw is coming from.
Be aware the door actuators still draw power with doors closed but unlocked, so take this into account.

This is assuming too you've looked at anything added to the car non factory that might draw batt power.

[aussiblue]

Probably a shorted diode in the alternator; does battery warninbg light on the dash go on as it should with engine off ignition on? If not, suspect a shorted alternator diode.

[snap0964]

That is a good point.
You can set up the meter as described, and disconnect the alternator + lead and see if the current drop disappears - be careful not to short it to anything.

[TICKFORD220]

Get a c tek trickle charger if your car is sitting for that long without being started or driven.
As also said check with a multi meter if the battery is actually charging.
Have you checked battery voltage before trying to start it or while trying to start it?

[wasim]

Thanks for all the suggestions on what to look at - I'll check these out over the weekend.

Thanks, Wasim

[GO FURTHER]

Did you buy the Ute new?

If not did the previous owner fit any electrical accessories or upgrade the audio system with an extra amplifier?

If there are no parasitic electrical loads draining the battery, maybe the new battery you got was not as new as you thought it was.

Sometimes batteries can sit in stock for long periods in small turnover outlets.

I would suggest getting one of these chargers to maintain and recondition your battery.

It will automatically analyse it's condition and select the right conditioning or charging cycle.....

https://www.fordforums.com.au/showpo...&postcount=400

[Electrolyte Burns]

Or just put a 5W solar panel on it.

[speedzter]

Dont forget to check the charging voltage when running.