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Draining battery

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Old Dec 12, 2023 | 12:15 PM
  #1  
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Default Draining battery

2003 Lexus es300 with 207,000 and a aftermarket 8 year old Python remote starter. Never had issues.
6 mos. ago had battery and alternator replaced. The other day I got into it and the battery was dead.
Jump started and it started right up. Drove around doing errands for about an hour an half, never shutting it off.
Got home and it would start right up. Both battery and alternator tested ok at the service station. Something is draining the battery and I have no idea what it is it.
I thought maybe it could be the remote starter. Is there a way I can switch off the Python to cut off connection to the battery? Or take it to a professional?
Before I got out of the car I made sure nothing was left on like the dome light etc.
Please help. Gary
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Old Dec 12, 2023 | 01:10 PM
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Those aftermarket kits are notorious for excessive battery draw if it was my car I'd remove it completely.
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Old Dec 12, 2023 | 05:44 PM
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Hello,

While I do agree on questionable aftermarket components, I wouldn't go tearing it all to pieces just yet, given that it did work for 8 years (presumably). To check it, any more or less descent system must have its own fuse somewhere in the proximity to the main control module, try taking it out for a few days, while also checking all the connections you can access, see if they are actually crimped in or simply twisted together, which could be a compounding factor in this case.

Hope this helps and best of luck!
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Old Dec 13, 2023 | 01:23 PM
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How did they test the alternator? Only if it charged? Or did they also test for AC voltage and/or parasitic draw?

The last “new” alternator (ok, next to last one) only lasted about 6 months before the regulator failed and it started draining the battery down overnight. That is fairly common with new alternators from O’Reillys, etc. Since that is both a) the last thing you replaced and b) a highly likely candidate, start with that component and diagnose it thoroughly.
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Old Dec 15, 2023 | 02:14 PM
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Default Draining battery

Alternator and battery tested good. Tested by AAA & my mechanic.
Having the remote starter pulled on Wed 12/20 by a reputable audio store. Going to drive it for awhile to see what happens.
Would they be able to test it while it’s still in the car? Would like to upgrade but not if I have to. I can’t live without a remote starter. Funny when I told him where I had it installed and he said I can’t believe they haven’t burnt
down yet. I’m not sure if he knew that Planet HiFi (Southington) did 3-4 yrs ago. Being in the same biz, I’m sure he did. He didn’t know that I already knew it did.
Happy Holidays, G
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Old Feb 13, 2025 | 08:35 AM
  #6  
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Default Battery

I’m finally getting back to you guys. Thanks for your patience.
I bought one of those portable chargers with a rechargeable battery.
Saved me numerous times. decided to take matters into my own hands.
About 6 months ago I bought the best Diehard you could buy.
Had it installed by Advanced Auto
I let it sit for approximately 7 days. Got in it and it cranked right up. (strong too)
It used to go completely dead after 4 days.
Im sorry but I’m totally blaming AAA for installing a defective battery in the first place!
Have not had a problem since.
Thinking on getting a new remote starter put in.(I miss it)


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