How to find an electrical drain
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## Using the test light, check all fuses and replace any that are blown. | ## Using the test light, check all fuses and replace any that are blown. | ||
## Do a visual inspection of common problems. (missing or loose ground wires, aftermarket radio or lights on a circuit always powered ON and not a switched circuit) | ## Do a visual inspection of common problems. (missing or loose ground wires, aftermarket radio or lights on a circuit always powered ON and not a switched circuit) | ||
| − | ### On older vehicles you can get in the vehicle with all doors closed and not worry about a time out interval. Perform an | + | ### On older vehicles you can get in the vehicle with all doors closed and not worry about a time out interval. Perform an under dash visual inspection. |
### On most late model vehicles equipped with a Vehicle Control Module (VCM)and/or Body Control Module (BCM) there may be a time out interval.(A certain amount of time has to pass in order for the VCM and/or BCM to enter sleep mode where the computers will use less power.These are vehicle specific and you will need to consult a proper service manual.) | ### On most late model vehicles equipped with a Vehicle Control Module (VCM)and/or Body Control Module (BCM) there may be a time out interval.(A certain amount of time has to pass in order for the VCM and/or BCM to enter sleep mode where the computers will use less power.These are vehicle specific and you will need to consult a proper service manual.) | ||
## It is suggested that you consult the owners manual, if possible, in order to familiarize yourself with the location of all fuse boxes. You will also need to verify that you have a legend for the fuses telling you what amp fuse to use in each circuit and what components the fuse feeds power to. At this time you will also need to determine which fuse feeds power to the interior lights: often it is labeled "courtesy". | ## It is suggested that you consult the owners manual, if possible, in order to familiarize yourself with the location of all fuse boxes. You will also need to verify that you have a legend for the fuses telling you what amp fuse to use in each circuit and what components the fuse feeds power to. At this time you will also need to determine which fuse feeds power to the interior lights: often it is labeled "courtesy". | ||
# '''TESTING''' | # '''TESTING''' | ||
| − | ## Ignition key off and all doors closed, and, ALL aftermarket accessories turned OFF. If the vehicle is equipped with an | + | ## Ignition key off and all doors closed, and, ALL aftermarket accessories turned OFF. If the vehicle is equipped with an under hood light you will need to disconnect the wires going to it or remove the bulb. |
## Disconnect the negative battery cable. | ## Disconnect the negative battery cable. | ||
## '''Connecting DVOM''' | ## '''Connecting DVOM''' | ||
| − | ### Make sure the DVOM cables stay connected to their correct locations (and not touching any other part of the vehicle) throughout the entire testing procedure - except when instructed otherwise. If they become disconnected you will need to perform steps 3.2 | + | ### Make sure the DVOM cables stay connected to their correct locations (and not touching any other part of the vehicle) throughout the entire testing procedure - except when instructed otherwise. If they become disconnected you will need to perform steps 3.2 through 3.4 again. Unless you have alligator clips or can secure your test probes you may need another person to help you perform these tests. |
### Connect the DVOM black cable(connected to the com port of the DVOM)to battery negative post | ### Connect the DVOM black cable(connected to the com port of the DVOM)to battery negative post | ||
### Connect the DVOM red cable (connected to the port labeled A) to the negative cable | ### Connect the DVOM red cable (connected to the port labeled A) to the negative cable | ||
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