

The alternator may have loose belts or worn-out tensioners that keep it from working properly.

Many cars power their lights, radio, and other systems from the alternator, which can make the battery drain worse if there's a charging problem. If your charging system isn’t working properly, your car battery can drain even while you’re driving. However, if there's an electrical problem – such as faulty wiring, poor installation, and defective fuses – parasitic drain can exceed what's normal and deplete the battery. Some parasitic drain is normal – your battery delivers enough energy to keep things, like your clock, radio presets, and security alarm operational at all times.

Parasitic drain is due to components in your vehicle continuing to run after the key is turned off. Many new cars alert you if you’ve left your lights on, but may not have alerts for other components. Overnight the battery drains, and in the morning your car won’t start. You’ve probably done this at least once in your life – you come home from work, tired and not really thinking, and left the headlights on, didn't completely close the trunk, or even forgot about some internal lights. Your car battery may begin to drain for 8 reasons: 1. You may be able to tell when your car battery starts to die if you find it difficult to start, have flickering lights, or a weakening alarm system This includes lights, radio, air conditioning, and more. It sends power from the starter motor to the sparks plugs, igniting your car’s fuel, while also giving other systems power.

How did this happen?Ī car battery is the most crucial piece of equipment to starting and driving your vehicle. The headlights are dim and the engine simply refuses to turn over. You're late for work and rush out to your car, only to find that it won't start.
