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2018 TLX Battery Draining Overnight - "Check Charging System" Light

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 3:42 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Acura TLX V6 Advance

My 2018 Acura TLX V6 Advance has been having some frustrating battery issues lately. The battery keeps dying overnight, even after I replaced it with a new one just a few months ago.

I also intermittently get a "Check Charging System" message on the dash, especially after a jump start or a longer drive. It's really inconvenient and I'm worried about getting stranded.

Could this be a bad alternator, or is there something else causing a parasitic drain? Any advice on how to diagnose this would be greatly appreciated!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 3:42 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It sounds like you're dealing with either a parasitic draw or an issue within the charging system of your 2018 Acura TLX. The "Check Charging System" light, especially with a new battery, points to more than just a weak battery.

Here are some steps and potential causes:

  1. Check for Parasitic Draw:

    • How to Check: With the car off and all doors closed, connect a multimeter in series between the negative battery post and the negative battery cable. Wait about 15-20 minutes for all modules to 'sleep'. A normal draw should be under 50 milliamps (0.05 amps). If it's significantly higher, a component is staying on.
    • Common Culprits: Aftermarket accessories, faulty relays, a stuck-on interior light, or a malfunctioning module (e.g., infotainment, hands-free link).

  2. Test the Alternator:

    • How to Check: With the engine running, measure the voltage across the battery terminals. It should read between 13.5V and 14.7V. If it's lower, especially under load (headlights, AC on), your alternator might not be charging effectively.
    • OBD Code: A common code for charging system issues is P0562 (System Voltage Low), which indicates the battery voltage is below the specified limit.

  3. Inspect Battery Sensor/Cables:

    • Ensure all battery terminals and ground connections are clean and tight. A loose or corroded connection can hinder proper charging and discharge.
    • The battery sensor (often on the negative terminal) plays a crucial role in the charging system. A fault here can lead to incorrect charging.

When to See a Shop: If you're uncomfortable performing these tests yourself, or if the problem persists after basic checks, it's best to take your TLX to a qualified Acura service center. They have specialized diagnostic tools to pinpoint parasitic draws more efficiently and can accurately test the alternator, voltage regulator, and all related wiring. Addressing this promptly will prevent further battery damage and ensure reliable operation.

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