1997 Cadillac Deville

109,000 MILES • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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GRAFFY_801
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
My 97 Deville has something draining the battery while off. It just began recently. When I jump it the volt meter moves up to normal range so I know it's not the alternater. I did have my cigarette lighter fuse blow out, but i replaced it and am still having the same issue. Not really sure where to start
Jun 3, 2010 at 2:37 AM
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FACTORYJACK
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 4,159 POSTS
Testing parasitic drain involves placing an ammeter inline between the negative battery cable, and negative post. After about 20 minutes, if the drain is excessive(greater than 20-30 mA), than you start by removing fuses one at a time, to determine which circuit is causing the drain. It could be something stuck like a switch or relay, or something keeping the system from going to sleep. It can be somewhat tricky to isolate. As far as guessing what the cause is, it is just that, a guess. Do a visual for something obvious, stuck lumbar or seat switch, lamps on in the glove box/underhood/rear compartment. Also consider if the vehicle is equipped with any aftermarket devices, such as an alarm, or stereo. Often times an installer can induce a battery drain by tapping into the wrong circuits.
Jun 3, 2010 at 5:39 PM
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