what to do if the battery keeps dying in my Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present)

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather all necessary tools and parts.
• Disconnect the negative battery terminal to ensure safety.

2. Clean Battery Terminals

• Tools Required: Wire brush or battery terminal cleaner, protective gloves.
• Using a wire brush, clean the battery terminals and cable ends to remove any corrosion.
• Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or anti-corrosion spray to the terminals after cleaning.

3. Replace the Battery (if necessary)

• Tools Required: Socket set, battery terminal wrench.
• If the battery test indicates poor health or the battery is older than 3-5 years, replace it.
• Remove the old battery by loosening the hold-down bracket and disconnecting the positive terminal first, followed by the negative terminal.
• Install the new battery by connecting the positive terminal first, followed by the negative terminal. Secure it with the hold-down bracket.

4. Inspect and Replace Alternator (if necessary)

• Tools Required: Socket set, multimeter, torque wrench.
• If the alternator voltage is outside the normal range, consider replacing it.
• Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
• Remove the alternator by taking off the drive belt and disconnecting the electrical connectors.
• Install the new alternator and reconnect all electrical connections. Reattach the drive belt and ensure proper tension.

5. Address Parasitic Draw (if found)

• Tools Required: Multimeter.
• If significant parasitic draw is detected, check individual fuses to find the source of the draw.
• Inspect components such as glove box lights, trunk lights, or aftermarket accessories for malfunctioning or continuous power draw.