The battery in my 03 CRV keeps dying, and no one can find anything wrong with it. New battery, new alternator. The battery has been tested and found to be in good shape and working fine. The alternator has been tested- same deal.

I've had the car since march of last year, and in that time I've gone through three batteries, and three alternators. At this point I'm pretty sure there's just something going on somewhere in the electrical system, maybe a frayed wire or something. It definitely doesn't like the cold, or rain, but other than that, I'm at a loss.

I was just wondering if anyone else has had the same/similar issues with 2nd gen CRVs. Any ideas or input would be appreciated.

 

What kind of draw do we have when it's sleeping?
Did the do a parasitic draw test?

 

No I haven't done that. I will definitely ask about that next time I take it in, thank you.

 

If you told them the battery would discharge overnight and they did NOT do a parasitic draw test take it somewhere else. You can do the test if you have a DVOM.

 

AI gives an awesome answer.

A battery drain in a 2003 Honda CR-V, also known as parasitic drain, occurs when the battery is discharged even when the car is off. Common causes include faulty relays, such as the A/C compressor relay, or issues with electrical components that continue to draw power when the vehicle is not running.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. 1. Inspect the Battery:
   Check for loose connections, corrosion, or damage to the battery itself. Ensure the terminals are clean and tight.
2. 2. Test the Alternator:
   A faulty alternator can cause a battery drain by not charging the battery adequately.
3. 3. Check for Parasitic Drain:
   • Use an Ammeter: Connect an ammeter in series with the battery's negative cable to measure the current draw when the car is off. A current draw of more than 50 milliamps is considered a significant drain, according to some sources.
   • Fuse Pulling: If the ammeter indicates a parasitic draw, remove fuses one by one to isolate the faulty circuit. The fuse that, when removed, causes a noticeable decrease in the current draw is the source of the drain.
   • Focus on Suspect Circuits: Pay particular attention to the circuits associated with the A/C compressor, the radio, and any aftermarket electronic devices.

Common Causes and Solutions:

• A/C Compressor Relay:
  A sticking or failing A/C compressor relay can cause the compressor to run continuously, draining the battery. Replace the relay if suspected.
• Faulty Relays:
  Other relays, such as those for the lights, wipers, or power windows, can also fail and cause a drain. Check for burnt or corroded contacts on the relay.
• Lights:
  Ensure all interior and exterior lights are off when the car is parked. A faulty light switch or door switch can leave lights on even when the car is off.
• Aftermarket Equipment:
  Aftermarket alarm systems, radios, or other electronic devices can sometimes cause parasitic drain. Disconnect or disable them to see if the problem is resolved.

 

This makes no sense. I can see if you have high parasitic draw how you would/could kill a battery however that would only happen if either the alternator is not charging or you do not drive the V often enough (includes long enough).

I also do not understand why you would go through 3 alternators especially if they test good.

So whats the real story?

Meanwhile, I suggest the use of a battery maintainer while the V is not in use so you can stop buying batts until you can find the source of the problem.
Simply put, under normal circumstances if your alternator is producing the 14.5 V charge voltage and the battery is dying, the voltage is not getting to the battery.