Battery - Current Draw

88mazda05

Category 5
Applicable Model/s All Models
Subject CURRENT DRAW FROM THE BATTERY
Bulletin No. 017/88 Issued 7/27/88 Revised
DESCRIPTION

In order to maintain the memory of the electrical equipment such as radio, clock, and several other control units, a small amount of current is drawn from the battery even though the vehicle is not in use. Although the actual current may vary according to the electrical equipment in each vehicle, the following specification can be used to determine if the current draw of the vehicle in question is normal or not.

CURRENT DRAW AMPERAGE

All Vehicles 15 to 25 mA (Ignition key is removed or in the lock position)

NOTE:
If the ignition key is in the ACC position, up to 250 mA is drawn from the battery. This current draw is large enough to discharge the battery in a few days.

TEST PROCEDURES

1. Turn the ignition switch off and remove the key from the cylinder.

2. Turn off all electrical loads. Make sure all doors and the trunk lid are completely closed.



3. Open the hood and disconnect the negative battery terminal.

NOTE:
If the vehicle is equipped with theft-deterrent system, disconnect the coupler from the hood switch so that the warning light of the theft-deterrent system is not operable.
4. Set the circuit tester to the "DC mA" range, to at least 100 mA range and check the current as follows:
Positive lead from tester to Negative Battery Cable

Negative lead from tester to Negative Battery Post

CAUTION:
Do not open the door while checking the current, as the tester will be damaged by the excessive current.