stevek1

When i first got my 07 RX350, i was in a parking garage playing with the nav and other displays and didn't realize the lights were on. After about ten minutes I got a low battery warning, turned off the lights and all was well. That was about two years ago.

Two days ago my wife and I were out shopping and i returned to the car early and turned on the ignition to use the nav. the lights were on (had them on 'on' instead of 'auto'). Mucked around a bit and then turned off the ignition. my wife returns and when i turn the key all the get is the clicking. Called the 'premium' service, says it will be an hour for a jump, so find one in the parking lot, start the car, and all is fine.

yesterday went to a local tire store that I frequent (Les Scwhab) for a new battery. They tell me my battery is 100% charged and the cranking amps test out at what they are supposed to be.

So, was my battery dead, and if so, why did it go dead so fast? and do i need a new battery?

Carver

If you don't know the history of the battery and it's let you down a couple of times replace it. I wouldn't try to squeeze any more time out of a battery that I wasn't sure of.

mandyfig

Check you alternator before you dump the battery.

stevek1

but, you see, the auto store did not want to sell me a new battery because it tested out at 100% for both voltage and cranking power. but it seems too coincidental that both episodes occurred when i was sitting with the lights on.

Rainbird

Any idea if this is the original battery? My 2007 OEM battery failed two months ago. Amazingly It lasted 6 years, 10 months.

Carver

Why even take a chance with a 100 dollar item? I don't understand the logic of trying to squeeze more time out of the number one cause of automobile failure to start. Especially if it is your family car.