Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Battery Ignition Off Draw Test
The battery draw test refers to power being drained from the battery with the ignition switch in the OFF position. A normal electrical system will draw from five to twenty-five milliamps (0.005 to 0.025 ampere) with the ignition OFF and all non-ignition controlled circuits working properly. The 0.025 ampere is needed to enable the memory functions of the vehicle to function.
- Verify that all electrical accessories are "OFF". Turn off all lamps, remove the ignition key and close all doors.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable.
- Set a DVOM (Digital Voltage and Ohm Meter) to its highest amperage scale and connect the DVOM between the disconnected negative battery cable and the negative battery post.
- If the amperage reading is higher that 0.025 ampere, remove each fuse until the amperage reading becomes within specifications, this will isolate each circuit and identify the source of the draw. If the amperage reading remains high after disconnecting each fuse, unplug the connector from the generator. If the amperage reading becomes within specifications, check the charging system.
- After appropriate repairs have been made, retest the system.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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