Q: 2005 Volvo XC90 Alarm System draining battery - removed fuse - still draining

asked by on September 04, 2017

Alarm system went off - drained battery - removed fuse -jumped and recharged battery. Week later - battery drained again - CD Player tries to eject a CD - when there's not one in the player - rear left passenger door locking mechanism clicks inside door - something still a load o the battery causing it to drain again . . message reads "Alarm System Maintenance Required" even though fuse removed

My car has 185000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

It seems as though you are describing multiple electrical problems. However, the issue with the battery draining has to be resolved first. The battery should be load tested to rule out the the possibility of an internal short or otherwise poor condition as a factor. Charging system output should be verified, too. If the battery passes a load test, and yet the battery discharges in a brief interval with all circuits commanded off, then it is likely that a "parasitic" load, sometimes know as a phantom load, exists. The cost to resolve such an electrical fault is in part made up of diagnostic time and, in part, the cost of materials or components to effect any required repair if the the parasitic power draw is due to a failed electronic module, relay and so forth. If the electrical fault causing current to flow is pinpointed quickly and readily it should not be too costly. Basically, using the factory wiring diagram, a Mechanic would use an ammeter to test vehicle circuits, segment by segment, until the fault is found. If you want these steps performed by a certified Mechanic, dispatched by YourMechanic right to your location, please request an electrical diagnostic and the responding certified mechanic will get this resolved for you. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Why Are My Wiper Blades Different Lengths?
Wiper blades come in different lengths so that one or more can be combined to provide the maximum clearing of your windshield with every pass or cycle. Some vehicles use a single blade mounted on an articulating arm that pivots...
Security system won't let car start
I strongly suggest allowing a technician to inspect the vehicle's electrical system (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/electric-problems-inspection) as it may simply be wire out of place or a blown fuse causing the vehicle not to start. When immobilizer systems become problematic usually immobilizer components...
I accidentally drained the transmission fluid on my car
It's not at all likely that you damaged the transmission as long as it wasn't started. Technically, you can put the CVT fluid back in, but it needs to be done from the same hole it was drained from. This...
Hello, Im having hard time with choosing vehicle for work
You did not mention what motor or transmissions either of the vehicles have. These are the biggest and most expensive repair concerns on any used vehicles. Firstly, I would not recommend buying a used vehicle (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-buy-a-used-car) without having a qualified...
how do you know if a car is vapor locked and how do you fix it?
It is very unlikely that a fuel injected engine is vapor locked (even at 108 degrees). From experience, an electrical component failed based upon heat and mileage of the vehicle. A code scanner will likely lead you to the issue....
Brake issue and brake lights on - 2014 Infiniti Q50
Hello. It sounds like the pedal is either binding or this is being caused by a bad brake switch (more common). When the switch fails it can cause this to occur. This should be covered under warranty since your vehicle...
2006 dodge charger abs light on with codes C1043,1027 what's the next step i should take... abs,bas,traction control lights on
Hi there. The first error code you've listed, C1043 is a Chrysler-specific error code that indicates a Left Rear Tone Wheel Performance issue. It typically is caused by a speed sensor failure. The other code is described as a Left...
Reduced engine power light is on 2003 Chevy Tahoe I need a new battery can that be the problem
A defective battery can cause all sorts of running issues due to voltage is too low or high causing erratic sensor and component performance like low fuel pressure or lack of power. I recommend replacing the battery first if it...

Related articles

2007 Nissan Versa vs. 2007 Saturn Ion: Which One Should I Buy?
Compact cars as a class are generally meant to be commuter vehicles: with excellent gas mileage, an entry-level price point, and decent safety ratings for those who are on the road the majority of their time. These cars also make...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're a Dog Trainer
If If you are a dog trainer, you expect a lot from your vehicle. You want a ride that is safe, roomy, and of course, dog friendly, since your training operation will often mean that you need to transport the...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Live in a Cold Climate
If If you live in a cold climate, likely one of your biggest concerns when you are considering which used vehicle you should buy is how well it will perform in snowy, icy conditions. We have evaluated a number of...