FAULTBASE
Error CodesASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/GMC/Sierra/T1XX (2019-Present)/how to troubleshoot GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present) battery drain issues

how to troubleshoot GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present) battery drain issues

GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present)

Error Codes
Severity: highDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
591 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to troubleshoot and fix battery drain issues in GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Affected Component
Electrical
Estimated Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems to prevent short circuits.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before performing any service to avoid burns.

Symptoms

  • •Battery warning light illuminated on the dashboard
  • •Engine cranks slowly or does not crank at all
  • •Electrical accessories malfunctioning or turning off unexpectedly
  • •Battery discharges overnight or after a few days of inactivity
  • •Multimeter reading shows low voltage when checked

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Check Battery Condition: Use a multimeter to measure the battery voltage; it should be around 12.6 volts when fully charged.
  2. 2Inspect Battery Connections: Ensure battery terminals are clean, tight, and free from corrosion.
  3. 3Perform Parasitic Draw Test: Disconnect the negative battery cable, connect an ammeter in series, and measure the current draw; it should be below 50 milliamps.
  4. 4Check for Faulty Components: Identify any components that may remain powered when the vehicle is off (e.g., aftermarket accessories, lights, or modules).
  5. 5Inspect Fuses: Remove fuses one at a time to check if the current draw drops significantly, indicating a possible faulty circuit.
  6. 6Scan for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any codes related to battery or electrical system issues.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools: multimeter, ammeter, OBD-II scanner, wrenches, and cleaning supplies.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface, and the engine is turned off.
  • Disconnect the negative battery cable to avoid electric shock.

2. Battery Replacement (if necessary)

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Remove the negative cable first, then the positive cable from the battery terminals.
    2. Unfasten any retaining brackets or covers holding the battery in place.
    3. Carefully lift the old battery out of the tray.
    4. Place the new battery in the tray, ensuring it is oriented correctly.
    5. Reconnect the positive cable first, then the negative cable.
    6. Tighten the connections securely.

3. Component Inspection and Repair

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Visually inspect all electrical components (lights, modules) for signs of malfunction.
    2. For any components identified as faulty, either repair or replace as necessary.
    3. Clean any corrosion from battery terminals and ground connections using a wire brush and baking soda solution if needed.

4. Parasitic Draw Reduction

  • Sub-steps:
    1. If high current draw persists, identify and disconnect individual circuits using the fuse removal method.
    2. Repair or replace components in the circuit that shows an abnormal draw.
    3. Reinstall fuses and ensure all components are functioning correctly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • ✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • ✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • ✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • •Multimeter
  • •Ammeter
  • •OBD-II scanner
  • •Wrenches
  • •Wire brush

Parts Required

  • •New battery (if necessary)
  • •Replacement fuses (if faulty)

Additional Information

Affected Component
Electrical
Estimated Time
2-4 hours
Difficulty
medium
Severity
high
Tools Required
5 items
Parts Required
2 items

Related Faults

  1. GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present) ABS light on how to fix

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the ABS light issue in 2019-present GMC Sierra T1XX. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Brakes5 symptoms

  2. how often should I change the oil in GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present)?

    Learn how often to change the oil in your GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present). Follow manufacturer recommendations and tips for maintaining engine health.

    Engine3 symptoms

  3. why is my GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present) shaking when idling?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix shaking at idle in GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Engine6 symptoms

  4. how to reset the oil change light on GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present)

    Learn how to reset the oil change light on GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present) with this step-by-step guide. Ensure your maintenance reminders are accurate.

    Electrical3 symptoms

  5. my GMC Sierra T1XX (2019-Present) has a strong vibration at high speeds, what could it be?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix strong vibrations at high speeds in GMC Sierra T1XX. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Suspension5 symptoms

  6. my GMC Sierra infotainment system keeps freezing what should I do

    Learn how to diagnose and fix freezing issues in GMC Sierra infotainment systems. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Electrical5 symptoms

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation