Parasitic Draw
A parasitic current draw on a car refers to an electrical current that continues to flow even after the car’s ignition is turned off. This current can drain the battery and cause issues such as a dead battery, slow engine cranking, and a vehicle that won’t start.
Some common symptoms of parasitic current draw include:
- A battery that drains quickly or won’t hold a charge
- Slow engine cranking or difficulty starting the vehicle
- Interior lights staying on after the car is turned off
- Electronic components, such as the radio, continuing to function after the car is turned off
Common causes of parasitic draw include:
- A malfunctioning alternator or voltage regulator
- A stuck relay or stuck solenoid
- An aftermarket alarm or audio system that continues to draw power
- A malfunctioning electronic component such as a power seat motor, power window motor or door lock actuator.
Procrastinating fixing a parasitic draw can lead to several problems. A parasitic draw can be caused by a variety of issues, such as a malfunctioning component or a light that is not turning off.
If you don’t fix it, it can drain your battery and leave you stranded. Additionally, it may also cause damage to the electrical system of your car, which can be costly to repair. It’s best to address parasitic draw issues as soon as possible to prevent these problems.