Q: Charging system battery keeps getting drained

asked by on January 01, 2017

Battery an both battery cables are new,alternator was replaced recently, connections have been cleaned. Had it tested at shop alternator, battery load ck. Every thing passed. But I can drive the car around for 1/2 hour or so shut it off and the battery won't start the car. always carry jumper cables every were I go.:/ Any ideas I was thinking ignition switch maybe shortin out? Starter ,? Besides charging system check well running, also had the alternator bench tested off the car an passed also, .I am stumped. Any help appreciated.

My car has 150000 miles.
My car has a manual transmission.

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

How do I set the automatic climate control
The automatic climate control feature controls all of the climate controls for you, based on a temperature you set. To turn on the automatic climate control, press the AUTO button, and then set the temperature. Press AUTO a second time...
Car only makes clicking sound when trying to start. Lights come on, but doesn't start.
I would have the battery tested typically batteries only last about 5 to 10 years so if it is old they will no longer have enough power to crank the engine. I would recommend a technician look at your car,...
Car blowing cold on one side, hot on the other
That sounds about right. There have been a lot of cases with faulty actuators. They are computer controlled. If a code is set, they will default to a set position, or it's stuck. The blend door itself could be stuck...
Warning lights come on while driving
Hello. It is possible that the oil pump is faulty causing low oil pressure. This may prevent the engine from working properly. It is also possible that the head gasket has failed or an internal engine component has failed (burned...
Low coolant light came on.
Hi there. Check the coolant level sensor on the radiator and make sure that it's plugged in. If the radiator was replaced, there is a good possibility that the coolant level sensor could have been slightly plugged in and then...
Transmission shifter cables came off.
Look around the transmission and look to see where the shifter cable is attached. Feel the shifter cable and see if it is indeed damaged or broken. If the cable is broken, then it will need to be replaced. If...
Hi, im hearing a creaking noise everytime i turn my wheel on my dodge stratus. Sometimes when it rains, the noise goes away but th
Hello, thank you for writing in. The control arms were a good guess, and there are several other tests you can do. You may be dealing with a failing steering or suspension component. You can start by performing a bounce...
All of a sudden my car is making loud noise when I turn it on, and accelerate
You need to find out if the muffler they put on is equal to the factory muffler or did they put the wrong one on and it is too noisey. It is this or there is an exhaust leak. Have...
My temp guage goes down almost to c when i drive on freeway
It's possible the engine cooling system thermostat is sticking in the open position. That will cause lower than normal operating temperature. It is also possible that the temperature sensor (a thermistor) is faulty, or the circuit wiring and/or dash gauge...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy for Occasional Drivers
Not Not everyone relies on their car on a daily basis. Maybe you aren’t the type that deals with a daily commute, and running from here to there constantly. If that’s the case, you may be looking for a car...
Pontiac Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Car Program
If If you’re in the market for a used Pontiac vehicle, you may want to check out cars under their certified pre-owned program. Many manufacturers have a certified pre-owned (CPO) program, and each one is set up differently. Read on...
Understanding the Pontiac Oil-Life Monitor and Service Indicator Lights
Car symbols, or dashboard lights, are a car service reminder. The Pontiac Oil Life Monitor (OLM) indicates when and what service your car needs.