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2017 G90 Persistent Battery Drain & "Smart Key Not Detected"

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:40 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Genesis G90 5.0L

I've been having a recurring issue with my 2017 Genesis G90 5.0L where the battery drains completely if the car sits for more than a couple of days. I've replaced the battery once already, and the problem persists. When the battery is low, I often get a "Smart Key Not Detected" message, even with a fresh key fob battery.

It's incredibly frustrating to constantly jump-start my car or keep it on a trickle charger. Has anyone with a 2017 G90 experienced a similar parasitic battery drain? What are the common culprits for this model year? I'm looking for troubleshooting tips or known electrical issues before I spend a fortune at the dealer trying to track down a phantom drain.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:40 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A persistent battery drain on your 2017 Genesis G90 5.0L, especially after replacing the battery, points strongly to a parasitic draw. The "Smart Key Not Detected" message is a common symptom of a low main vehicle battery, as the car's electrical system struggles to power all modules, including those for key detection.

  1. Diagnosing Parasitic Draw:
    • Multimeter Test: A parasitic draw test involves connecting a multimeter in series between the negative battery terminal and the negative battery cable. With the car off and all doors closed (and locked, if possible, to simulate normal shutdown), the current draw should settle below 50mA (0.05 Amps) after all modules have 'gone to sleep' (which can take 15-30 minutes).
    • Fuse Pulling: If the draw is high, systematically pull fuses one by one while monitoring the multimeter. When the current drops significantly, the circuit associated with that fuse is the culprit.
  2. Common Causes for Parasitic Drain in Genesis Vehicles:
    • Infotainment/Navigation System: Modules that don't properly shut down can be a significant draw.
    • Telematics Unit (Blue Link/Genesis Connected Services): These modules are always 'on' to some extent, but a faulty one can prevent proper sleep mode.
    • HVAC Blower Motor Resistor/Module: Can sometimes stay partially active.
    • Trunk/Glove Box Lights: Ensure all interior lights, especially in less visible areas, are turning off.
    • Aftermarket Accessories: Any non-OEM installed electronics can be a source.
    • Faulty Alternator Diode: A bad diode in the alternator can allow current to leak from the battery when the engine is off.
  3. OBD Codes: A parasitic draw might not always trigger a Check Engine Light. However, if a specific module is failing to shut down, it could potentially log U-codes (network communication errors) or B-codes (body electrical issues) that a professional scan tool can reveal.
  4. When to See a Shop:
    • If you are uncomfortable performing electrical diagnostics yourself.
    • If the parasitic draw is difficult to locate after basic fuse pulling.
    • If the problem persists after checking common culprits, as it may require specialized Genesis diagnostic tools to pinpoint a faulty module or wiring issue.

Keeping it on a trickle charger is a temporary solution, but finding and fixing the root cause is essential for the long-term health of your G90's electrical system.

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