my Cadillac Escalade T1XX (2021-Present) battery keeps dying what could be causing it

Symptoms

• Battery warning light illuminated on the dashboard
• Inability to start the engine after a period of inactivity
• Dim or flickering interior and exterior lights
• Electrical components malfunctioning or operating inconsistently
• Unusual parasitic drain when the vehicle is off

Diagnostic Steps

1. Scan for Error Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any stored trouble codes that may indicate electrical system malfunctions.
2. Check Battery Health: Test the battery voltage and state of charge using a multimeter; a healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts or more.
3. Inspect Battery Connections: Visually examine battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections, and clean or tighten as necessary.
4. Test for Parasitic Draw: With the vehicle off, use a multimeter to measure the current draw from the battery and identify any excessive drain (more than 50 milliamps).
5. Check Fuse Box: Inspect fuses for any blown circuits that may indicate electrical issues.
6. Review Electrical Components: Look for malfunctioning components such as lights, modules, or aftermarket accessories that may cause battery drain.

Solution

1. Preparation

• Tools Required: OBD-II scanner, multimeter, wrench set, wire brush, battery terminal cleaner, safety gloves.
• Disconnect the negative battery cable using a wrench to ensure safety while working on the electrical system.

2. Address Battery and Connections

• Clean Connections:
  • Use a wire brush and battery terminal cleaner to clean the battery terminals and cable connectors.
  • Ensure tight connections to prevent any voltage drop.
• Replace Battery:
  • If the battery test shows a state of charge below 12.4 volts or if it is older than 3-5 years, replace it with a new, compatible battery.
  • Securely connect the new battery, ensuring the positive (+) terminal is connected first followed by the negative (-) terminal.

3. Repair Electrical Issues

• Identify and Replace Faulty Components:
  • If parasitic draw is identified, disconnect suspected components one at a time while monitoring the multimeter until the draw drops to normal levels (below 50 milliamps).
  • Replace any faulty components or wiring that may be causing the drain.

4. Finalize Repairs

• Reconnect the negative battery cable and ensure all tools are removed from the engine bay.
• Start the vehicle and check that all electrical systems are functioning as intended.