Electrical - Starting/Charging Static Current Draw
SOURCE: KIA Technician Times Volume 6 Issue 5, 2003TITLE: Static Current Draw Testing
APPLIES TO: ALL
SERVICE TIP:
Part of a complete charging / starting system test should also include a static current draw test. A vehicle that cranks slowly or not at all after the vehicle sits for a length of time should have the battery tested first using the new Micro 570 tester. After testing alternator output and starter current draw, check the static current draw using the following procedure.
^ Turn ignition off and remove the key.
^ Make sure all accessories are off and all doors are closed.
^ Disconnect hood switch (Amanti only)
^ Disconnect the battery negative cable.
^ With your DVOM set to measure Amps, connect the black lead to the battery negative post, and the red lead to the negative battery cable.
^ Give the reading a few seconds to stabilize.
A reading under 30 milliamps should be considered acceptable, a reading higher than 30 milliamps would require further diagnosis. Start by checking for aftermarket accessories, pulling fuses and disconnecting loads while watching the meter. After finding the main circuit by pulling fuses, use your ETM to further diagnose the individual circuit.
NOTE: When checking static current draw on Amanti, disconnect the hood open switch on the right fender. The hood open signal will keep the BCM from powering down causing approximately 200 milliamps draw.