Parasitic loads - GM trucks & SUV's
I have a 2011 GMC Sierra 1500 that I bought new 3 1/2 years ago (now out of warranty). I’m beginning to believe the electrical system was designed by Lucas Electric, the Price of Darkness. (For those who remember classic British cars.)
If the truck sits for a while, I may return to find the battery dead from parasitic loads. Just happened again because we were in Florida for a week, so I’m thinking about it once more.
I had it back to the dealer previously. They found no abnormal loads, but told me I should start it at least once a week long enough to recharge, or else put it on a trickle charger to maintain the battery. I say whoever designed an electrical system which cannot sit for more than a week without draining the battery dead should be taken out and flogged! But I digress.
From searching the internet, discussion on truck forums suggest that this is not an unusual problem with late model GM trucks and SUV’s.
Have any of you come up with a sensible and effective solution for this problem?
I've thought of a couple of things, but I would like to know what others have found to work.
Thanks!
Wayne
If the truck sits for a while, I may return to find the battery dead from parasitic loads. Just happened again because we were in Florida for a week, so I’m thinking about it once more.
I had it back to the dealer previously. They found no abnormal loads, but told me I should start it at least once a week long enough to recharge, or else put it on a trickle charger to maintain the battery. I say whoever designed an electrical system which cannot sit for more than a week without draining the battery dead should be taken out and flogged! But I digress.
From searching the internet, discussion on truck forums suggest that this is not an unusual problem with late model GM trucks and SUV’s.
Have any of you come up with a sensible and effective solution for this problem?
I've thought of a couple of things, but I would like to know what others have found to work.
Thanks!
Wayne
