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Parasitic Battery Drain on 2016 RLX - Dead After a Few Days

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 26, 3:33 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2016 Acura RLX Advance

I'm having a really frustrating problem with my 2016 Acura RLX Advance. If I leave it parked for more than two or three days, the battery is completely dead. I've had to jump-start it multiple times, and I even replaced the battery a few months ago, thinking that was the issue, but it's still happening.

It seems like something is draining the battery while the car is off. I've checked to make sure all the lights are off, and nothing obvious is left on. This is becoming a real hassle.

Has anyone else experienced a parasitic draw on their 2016 RLX? What could be the common culprits?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 26, 3:33 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A parasitic battery drain on your 2016 Acura RLX Advance is a common and often tricky problem to diagnose. It means something in the vehicle is drawing power even when the car is turned off and locked. Since you've already replaced the battery, we can focus on finding the source of the draw.

Common Causes of Parasitic Drain:

  1. Aftermarket Accessories: Any non-factory installed items like remote starters, alarm systems, dash cams, or upgraded audio components are prime suspects if not wired correctly.
  2. Faulty Modules: Modern cars have numerous electronic control modules (ECUs). A module that fails to 'go to sleep' properly can continuously draw power. Common culprits include the infotainment module, hands-free link module, or even the body control module (BCM).
  3. Stuck Relays: A relay that is stuck in the 'on' position can keep a circuit active, drawing power. This could be for lights, fuel pump, or other components.
  4. Interior/Trunk Lights: Even if you think they're off, a faulty switch on a glove box light, trunk light, or vanity mirror light could keep it illuminated and draining the battery.
  5. Key Fob Signal: If your key fob is stored too close to the car, it might constantly communicate with the vehicle, keeping certain systems awake.

Common OBD Codes: While not always directly related to parasitic draw, a faulty module causing the drain might log a B-code (Body code) like B1000 (Generic Electronic Module Fault) or specific codes indicating a module isn't communicating or shutting down correctly.

When to See a Shop:

  • As soon as possible: A persistent parasitic drain can shorten the life of your new battery and leave you stranded.
  • Diagnosing a parasitic draw requires specialized tools (like a multimeter with an amp clamp) and knowledge of automotive electrical systems. A technician will typically perform a 'draw test' by disconnecting the battery and measuring the current draw, then systematically pulling fuses to isolate the circuit causing the issue. This is best left to an Acura dealership or a qualified automotive electrician.
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