Forum Discussion

Effy's avatar
Effy
Explorer II
Apr 01, 2016

2011 CRV batt dead after towing

We have a 2011 CRV that we tow and have never had an issue before. On the return leg of our last trip, we stopped more than usual for dinner etc so it was an unusually long day. When we got home the battery was dead. All the research I did prior to setting it up to tow told me that I didn't need to hookup a battery disconnect or pull a fuse because our model does not have Nav. I checked prior to towing and nothing was left on (fan, radio, interior lights, etc). So is this a common problem with long days of towing? Should I install a disconnect or pull a fuse from now on? How does that affect the radio and computer etc? I'd rather not get into running a charging cable from the MH, I usually look for less invasive methods. The tow lights are not run through the CRV, they are extra and run directly from the MH so no issue there.
Class A
  • Mr_Mark1's avatar
    Mr_Mark1
    Explorer
    Apr 01, 2016
    Effy, since this is something new that has happened, you are probably due for a new battery. I've already bought a new battery for our 2013 CR-V. The first one lasted exactly 3 yrs.

    Our 2007 had 3 batteries over 5.5 yrs. The first battery was replaced under warranty as it was apparently defective. The second battery lasted 3 yrs.

    Mark
  • mfox20's avatar
    mfox20
    Explorer
    Apr 01, 2016
    Even though you don't have Nav you still have power on to the display screen when the key is in the position to tow. On my 2013 I installed the roadmaster disconnect switch that just kills the power for the display screen. Doesn't affect the radio settings. I have not had any issues towing all day with this setup. Very simple to install yourself. I mounted my switch in one of the blank plates on the lower left side of the dash. PM me if you need more info or help with the install.
  • Effy's avatar
    Effy
    Explorer II
    Apr 01, 2016
    Phil & Stephie wrote:
    Do you an auxiliary brake systems that requires power?


    No, I have a ready Brute Elite with the surge/cable brakes. So it's all mechanical.
  • Effy's avatar
    Effy
    Explorer II
    Apr 01, 2016
    mfox20 wrote:
    Even though you don't have Nav you still have power on to the display screen when the key is in the position to tow. On my 2013 I installed the roadmaster disconnect switch that just kills the power for the display screen. Doesn't affect the radio settings. I have not had any issues towing all day with this setup. Very simple to install yourself. I mounted my switch in one of the blank plates on the lower left side of the dash. PM me if you need more info or help with the install.


    I'll check into that. Thanks!

    On edit, the only one I found was the battery disconnect for $179.. Is that the same one? Looks like a complete disconnect and batt charger solenoid.
  • mfox20's avatar
    mfox20
    Explorer
    Apr 01, 2016
    Roadmaster 76511 FuseMaster Harness. About $64.00 on Amazon Prime. I also have the Ready Brute Elite setup.
  • Sam_Spade's avatar
    Sam_Spade
    Explorer
    Apr 01, 2016
    Effy wrote:
    We have a 2011 CRV that we tow and have never had an issue before.


    With a 5-6 year old battery, PLEASE don't waste your time with other stuff until you get the battery tested or replaced.

    Listen to what you said "have never had an issue before" and don't ignore the evidence.
  • Effy's avatar
    Effy
    Explorer II
    Apr 01, 2016
    Sam Spade wrote:
    Effy wrote:
    We have a 2011 CRV that we tow and have never had an issue before.


    With a 5-6 year old battery, PLEASE don't waste your time with other stuff until you get the battery tested or replaced.

    Listen to what you said "have never had an issue before" and don't ignore the evidence.


    Actually the battery is only a year old. Replaced it last year.
  • Effy's avatar
    Effy
    Explorer II
    Apr 01, 2016
    mfox20 wrote:
    Roadmaster 76511 FuseMaster Harness. About $64.00 on Amazon Prime. I also have the Ready Brute Elite setup.


    Ordered it as well as the fuse socket connection kit. Thanks for the info.
  • Dale_Traveling's avatar
    Dale_Traveling
    Explorer II
    Apr 01, 2016
    I think this was a one off and it was just the battery's time to go.

    But also consider that when the Ready Brake activates and pulls on the brake pedal, even with the engine off and such, the toad brakes lights will be active. Normally this would not be a problem considering the short time the lights are powered. Get caught up in heavy stop and go traffic along with a marginal but functioning battery could be just enough to send it over the edge.

    I'm pulling around an 05 CRV (No Nav) with a Ready Brake. The CRV comes along on any outing that isn't just a weekend trip. Battery hasn't been a problem, yet. Key to unlock the steering and the radio off is all I do.

About Motorhome Group

38,705 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 14, 2025