Dash cluster remains powered key off engine off

2003 FORD ESCAPE
141,000 MILES • 3.0L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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RICH YOUNG
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Been chasing a battery drain. New battery. New alternator. Removed all the aftermarket radio stuff and double checked wiring. Dash cluster with miles and gear selector remains powered even with key out of car. Gem module? Or something else. Saw another post that said the gear selector isn't up all the way but seems to easy to be true.
Feb 1, 2020 at 1:34 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 52,796 POSTS
Good morning,

Are all the lights on at the dash when you turn it off?

How did you determine it was the dash?

I would start by checking the actual current draw. I attached a guide for you to follow. Battery drain is from current, not voltage like most people think.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-dead-overnight

50 to 75 milliamps is the normal draw. Verify the draw and then you can isolate the actual draw and the source.

Roy
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Feb 2, 2020 at 4:21 AM
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BMDOUBLE
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 1,139 POSTS
The ignition lock cylinder housing and switch are two common failure points on these vehicles and absolutely can and will cause a battery drain and will keep the cluster lit. The housing and the switch should be replaced as a pair.
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Feb 3, 2020 at 8:17 AM