[Battery](/topics-battery-dodge/) is draining while the c...


[Battery](/topics-battery-dodge/) is draining while the car is off and running I have replace [alternator](/topics-alternator-dodge/) and battery and also checked the wire to make sure they was tight Mechanic's Assistant: ...

[Battery](/topics-battery-dodge/) is draining while the car is off and running I have replace [alternator](/topics-alternator-dodge/) and battery and also checked the wire to make sure they was tight Mechanic's Assistant: Does the battery look like it's leaking? And does it have a strong smell -- like sulfur? No it doesn’t Mechanic's Assistant: What is the make/model/year of your car? 09 Dodge Charger Mechanic's Assistant: Are you fixing your Charger yourself? What have you tried so far? Yes and just a new alternator and battery

Automotive Expert
Hello there and thank you for contacting JustAnswer, sorry to hear about your car trouble, I’ll do my best to help you solve this issue, you could have short circuit that may cause excessive current draw and drain your battery.

Where would this short circuit locatedBe located
Automotive Expert
problems in the circuit (loose, disconnected or broken wires), or a failing alternator. Engine operation problems can also cause excessive battery drain during cranking

Okay I will check my wires
Automotive Expert
Also preform this test if you can, Set your digital multimeter to read DC Amps. Remove the key from the ignition and keep all accessories off. Disconnect the negative battery cable (the one with the '-' sign next to it). Connect your negative (black) meter lead to the battery negative post. Connect the positive (red) meter lead to the terminal of the cable you just disconnected.NOTE: On some recent vehicle models you may need to wait about 30 minutes after shutting off the engine and connecting the ammeter to allow all computer modules to go into sleep mode. If necessary, consult your car owner's manual. Read the display on your voltmeter. On average, a normal reading should range between 50 and 85 mA (it depends on the particular model, number of electronic modules and power devices that remain on after shutting down the engine). Your car owner manuals may give you the normal parasitic load for your car model. If you get a reading above 50 mA, it's likely you have a parasitic load. This means a live circuit is draining battery power.

Okay
Automotive Expert
If you replaced your battery and alternator, i would start with these tests to see what is draining your battery.

Okay if that's not the problem it would be the alternator?
Automotive Expert
Not if you just replace it.

Okay just asking because the one I bought was a refurbish
Automotive Expert
Okay was it a rebuilt?
Automotive Expert
It could faulty can you exchange it just in case?

that is a possibility
Automotive Expert
Okay you can check the alternator at any parts shop for free.

Ok
Automotive Expert
Great. If you have any further questions please don’t hesitate to reach out through the chat at anytime.

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