FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Subaru/Outback/5th Generation (2015-2019)/why does my Tesla Outback 5th Generation (2015-2019) battery die when the car is off

why does my Tesla Outback 5th Generation (2015-2019) battery die when the car is off

Subaru Outback 5th Generation (2015-2019)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
545 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 diagnose and fix battery drain issues in Tesla Outback 2015-2019. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Component
Electrical
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect battery before working on electrical systems to prevent shock or damage

Symptoms

  • •Battery drain occurs overnight or after extended periods of inactivity
  • •"Low Battery" warning on the dashboard when attempting to start
  • •Accessories (like lights or infotainment) remain active after the vehicle is turned off
  • •Inability to use key fob or remote start due to low battery
  • •Frequent need to jump-start the vehicle

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Check for parasitic draw using a multimeter to measure the current draw from the battery with the vehicle off
  2. 2Inspect battery health by testing the battery voltage and performing a load test
  3. 3Examine electrical components for faulty switches or modules that may remain powered when the car is off
  4. 4Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to check for any diagnostic trouble codes related to battery management or electrical issues
  5. 5Review recent repairs or modifications that could have affected the electrical system
  6. 6Inspect fuses and relays for any blown fuses or malfunctioning relays that may cause components to stay energized

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and safety equipment.
  • Disconnect the battery negative terminal to prevent accidental short circuits.

2. Test for Parasitic Draw

  • Sub-steps:
    • Connect the multimeter in series with the negative battery terminal.
    • Ensure all doors are closed and the vehicle is locked.
    • Record the current draw reading. A normal draw is usually below 50 mA.
  • Tools Required: Multimeter.

3. Inspect and Replace Faulty Components

  • Sub-steps:
    • Identify any components causing high current draw based on the multimeter reading.
    • Disconnect components one at a time to isolate the source of the draw.
    • Replace any malfunctioning switches, modules, or wiring.
  • Tools Required: Socket set, screwdriver set.
  • Safety Warnings: Ensure the vehicle is off and key is removed while working on electrical components.

4. Battery Maintenance

  • Sub-steps:
    • Clean battery terminals and ensure a tight connection.
    • If the battery shows signs of wear (low voltage or poor load test), replace it with a new battery.
  • Parts Required: New battery (if replacement is necessary).

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
  • Socket set
  • Screwdriver set

Parts Required

  • New battery (if replacement is necessary)
  • Replacement switches or modules (if identified as faulty)

Additional Information

Component

Electrical

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

3 items

Parts

2 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why is my Tesla Outback 5th Generation (2015-2019) using more gas than usual?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix increased fuel consumption in Tesla Outback 5th Generation (2015-2019). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures an...

    Component:Fuel System
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Decreased fuel economy compared to previous performance
    • +{count} more
  2. how to fix the differential whining noise in my Tesla Outback 5th Generation (2015-2019)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix differential whining noise in Tesla Outback 5th Generation (2015-2019). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures an...

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Whining noise that increases with vehicle speed
    • •Noise present when accelerating or decelerating
    • +{count} more
  3. how to fix P0171 lean condition in Tesla Outback 5th Generation (2015-2019)

    P0171

    Learn how to diagnose and fix P0171 lean condition in Tesla Outback 5th Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructi...

    Component:Fuel System
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Rough idle or stalling
    • +{count} more
  4. why is my Tesla Outback 5th Generation (2015-2019) overheating during city driving?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix overheating issues in Tesla Outback 5th Generation. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instr...

    Component:Cooling System
    Symptoms
    • •Engine temperature gauge reading higher than normal
    • •Warning lights illuminated on the dashboard
    • +{count} more
  5. what can cause the ABS light to come on in my Tesla Outback 5th Generation (2015-2019)?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the ABS light issue in Tesla Outback 5th Generation (2015-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms and solutions.

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •ABS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Reduced braking performance
    • +{count} more
  6. how to troubleshoot Tesla Outback 5th Generation (2015-2019) shuddering during acceleration

    Learn how to troubleshoot and fix shuddering during acceleration in Tesla Outback 5th Generation (2015-2019). Step-by-step diagnostic and repair guide...

    Component:Drivetrain
    Symptoms
    • •Shuddering or vibration felt during acceleration
    • •Unusual noises accompanying the shudder (e.g., clunks or grinding)
    • +{count} more

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