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  1. #1
    Veteran Member Four Rings SLC_S4's Avatar
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    Jul 15 2007
    AZ Member #
    19559
    My Garage
    2001.5 S4
    Location
    Utah

    So I guess it's time to post this problem....

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    My battery is continuously dying.....so what do you guys think it is?
    The battery is an Audi battery that I bought brand new a little over a year ago. The voltage never drops below 12 while I'm driving the car, but it always seems that if I don't drive the car for a day, it won't start the next day. If I jump the battery, I usually have the same problem the next time I go to start the car. If I charge the battery over night, I won't have any problems for awhile. Alternator bad maybe? Is there anyway to test that?
    -Seth

    ------------------------------------------------------
    APR Stage 3 - APR Stealth exhaust - APR downpipes - APR Bipipe - APR snub mount - AWE side mount intercoolers - AWE LWFW - RS4 clutch - ITG panel filter - JHM Shifter - Startup Racing Vogtland GT coilovers - Stern adjustable control arms - Fiber Images vented carbon fiber hood - Fiber Images carbon fiber fenders - Recaro Style Topline seats - A bunch of other stuff I can't remember

  2. #2
    Veteran Member Three Rings Rajan147's Avatar
    Join Date
    Nov 23 2007
    AZ Member #
    22787
    Location
    Columbus, OH

    Re: So I guess it's time to post this problem....

    alternator, not charging the battery, but it seems like your getting a full day out of it which is strange, once they take a shit, their donezo.

    once you have it out, autozone or advanced auto can test that part for free.

    Maybe a weak battery? Seems like everything is slipping past audi quality control these days.
    B5 S4 AWE Stage 3 - sold

  3. #3
    Veteran Member Four Rings SLC_S4's Avatar
    Join Date
    Jul 15 2007
    AZ Member #
    19559
    My Garage
    2001.5 S4
    Location
    Utah

    Re: So I guess it's time to post this problem....

    Quote Originally Posted by Rajan147 View Post
    alternator, not charging the battery, but it seems like your getting a full day out of it which is strange, once they take a shit, their donezo.

    once you have it out, autozone or advanced auto can test that part for free.

    Maybe a weak battery? Seems like everything is slipping past audi quality control these days.
    Yeah, it's weird. If it's the battery, Audi will charge me only 30% of a new one. Maybe it'd be worth it to buy it and see if that solves the problem. Could there be something draining the battery? That's another thought I've had.
    -Seth

    ------------------------------------------------------
    APR Stage 3 - APR Stealth exhaust - APR downpipes - APR Bipipe - APR snub mount - AWE side mount intercoolers - AWE LWFW - RS4 clutch - ITG panel filter - JHM Shifter - Startup Racing Vogtland GT coilovers - Stern adjustable control arms - Fiber Images vented carbon fiber hood - Fiber Images carbon fiber fenders - Recaro Style Topline seats - A bunch of other stuff I can't remember

  4. #4
    Established Member Two Rings PaCmAn...'s Avatar
    Join Date
    Apr 05 2004
    AZ Member #
    1589
    My Garage
    2001 AUDI S4
    Location
    Florida

    Re: So I guess it's time to post this problem....

    Quote Originally Posted by SLC_S4 View Post
    Yeah, it's weird. If it's the battery, Audi will charge me only 30% of a new one. Maybe it'd be worth it to buy it and see if that solves the problem. Could there be something draining the battery? That's another thought I've had.
    i have this issue right now myself brother, it a battery issue or ground...the ground might be loose, my problem was the battery has died too many times so its time for a new one...like dude said on top the battery dies completely, then you need a new one...also whats up with the trunk dude...lol i sent you another email...thanks
    "I love to eat rice..."

  5. #5
    Veteran Member Four Rings SLC_S4's Avatar
    Join Date
    Jul 15 2007
    AZ Member #
    19559
    My Garage
    2001.5 S4
    Location
    Utah

    Re: So I guess it's time to post this problem....

    Quote Originally Posted by PaCmAn... View Post
    i have this issue right now myself brother, it a battery issue or ground...the ground might be loose, my problem was the battery has died too many times so its time for a new one...like dude said on top the battery dies completely, then you need a new one...also whats up with the trunk dude...lol i sent you another email...thanks
    I haven't gotten another email from you since I sent you the shipping quote. Try sending it again.
    -Seth

    ------------------------------------------------------
    APR Stage 3 - APR Stealth exhaust - APR downpipes - APR Bipipe - APR snub mount - AWE side mount intercoolers - AWE LWFW - RS4 clutch - ITG panel filter - JHM Shifter - Startup Racing Vogtland GT coilovers - Stern adjustable control arms - Fiber Images vented carbon fiber hood - Fiber Images carbon fiber fenders - Recaro Style Topline seats - A bunch of other stuff I can't remember

  6. #6
    Registered Member Four Rings Audimarc's Avatar
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    Sep 07 2004
    AZ Member #
    3410
    My Garage
    61 XK150, 74 Cuda, 06 Jag STR
    Location
    Montreal QC

    Re: So I guess it's time to post this problem....

    Energizer. The bunny will make thing right.
    What are you gonna do when the real Marc password protects his Photobucket? - Katelyn

  7. #7
    Established Member Two Rings kodycobra's Avatar
    Join Date
    Jul 15 2008
    AZ Member #
    30882
    My Garage
    00S4,07 ZX14,05 AcuraTL,Z32tt
    Location
    Jefferson City, Missouri

    Re: So I guess it's time to post this problem....

    Quote Originally Posted by SLC_S4 View Post
    My battery is continuously dying.....so what do you guys think it is?
    The battery is an Audi battery that I bought brand new a little over a year ago. The voltage never drops below 12 while I'm driving the car, but it always seems that if I don't drive the car for a day, it won't start the next day. If I jump the battery, I usually have the same problem the next time I go to start the car. If I charge the battery over night, I won't have any problems for awhile. Alternator bad maybe? Is there anyway to test that?
    Since you were kind enough to help me out... Time to return the favor.

    I had this exact same problem on my Cobra a while back. If it is indeed the same problem, it's called parasitic battery drain. I went through 4 batteries in a freakin year!
    A parasitic drain is when an electrical device is using battery power when the car is turned off, and the ignition key removed. It's just like leaving your headlights on overnight. I noticed with my Audi that you can operate the radio with the ignition key removed, and that my Valentine1 stayed on as well. I unplug it now everytime I shut off the car.

    Just think to yourself... Do you have any electrical devices that are hooked up to a constant wire, such as... radar detector, boost gauge that stays on with no key in the car etc.?

    Here's how to test for Parasitic drain on your battery...
    Tools you'll need:digital multimeter or ammeter, fuse puller, owners manual(for which fuse controls what) and an 8mm(or 10mm, can't remember) socket to take off the battery terminal

    Here's a test procedure..
    1.Remove the negative side battery cable from the negative battery terminal

    2.Attach an digital multi-meter(on amperage) between the negative cable and the negative battery post. wait a few seconds to several minutes for the car to go into sleep mode. i.e. when you make the contact with the test light the cars computer systems "wake up" after a bit of time they will go to "sleep".

    3.If the multi-meter is reading over 25-50 milliamps, something is using too much battery power.

    4.Go to the fuse panel(s) and remove fuses, one at a time. Pull the main fuses (higher amp ratings)last.

    5.Watch for the multi-meter to drop to acceptable drain. The fuse that reduces the drain is the draw. Consult the owners' manual or service manual to find what circuits are on that fuse.

    6.Check each device (circuit) on that fuse. Stop each lamp, heater, etc. to find the drain

    7.Repeat steps 1&2 to test your repair. The digital multi-meter will tell you exact numbers

    *I didn't write that test, I stole it from google because I'm too lazy to type it all

    That's just my guess, because I've experienced the same problem. It could be a loose ground I guess too, but... doubtful.

    *I didn't mean to insult your mechanical appitude by posting the procedure, that was a just in case you didn't know kinda thing.
    Last edited by kodycobra; 08-06-2008 at 12:44 PM.

  8. #8
    Veteran Member Four Rings SLC_S4's Avatar
    Join Date
    Jul 15 2007
    AZ Member #
    19559
    My Garage
    2001.5 S4
    Location
    Utah

    Re: So I guess it's time to post this problem....

    Quote Originally Posted by kodycobra View Post
    Since you were kind enough to help me out... Time to return the favor.

    I had this exact same problem on my Cobra a while back. If it is indeed the same problem, it's called parasitic battery drain. I went through 4 batteries in a freakin year!
    A parasitic drain is when an electrical device is using battery power when the car is turned off, and the ignition key removed. It's just like leaving your headlights on overnight. I noticed with my Audi that you can operate the radio with the ignition key removed, and that my Valentine1 stayed on as well. I unplug it now everytime I shut off the car.

    Just think to yourself... Do you have any electrical devices that are hooked up to a constant wire, such as... radar detector, boost gauge that stays on with no key in the car etc.?

    Here's how to test for Parasitic drain on your battery...
    Tools you'll need:digital multimeter or ammeter, fuse puller, owners manual(for which fuse controls what) and an 8mm(or 10mm, can't remember) socket to take off the battery terminal

    Here's a test procedure..
    1.Remove the negative side battery cable from the negative battery terminal

    2.Attach an digital multi-meter(on amperage) between the negative cable and the negative battery post. wait a few seconds to several minutes for the car to go into sleep mode. i.e. when you make the contact with the test light the cars computer systems "wake up" after a bit of time they will go to "sleep".

    3.If the multi-meter is reading over 25-50 milliamps, something is using too much battery power.

    4.Go to the fuse panel(s) and remove fuses, one at a time. Pull the main fuses (higher amp ratings)last.

    5.Watch for the multi-meter to drop to acceptable drain. The fuse that reduces the drain is the draw. Consult the owners' manual or service manual to find what circuits are on that fuse.

    6.Check each device (circuit) on that fuse. Stop each lamp, heater, etc. to find the drain

    7.Repeat steps 1&2 to test your repair. The digital multi-meter will tell you exact numbers

    *I didn't write that test, I stole it from google because I'm too lazy to type it all

    That's just my guess, because I've experienced the same problem. It could be a loose ground I guess too, but... doubtful.

    *I didn't mean to insult your mechanical appitude by posting the procedure, that was a just in case you didn't know kinda thing.
    That may very well solve my problem. I'll definitely be checking into that. I appreciate the detailed info.
    -Seth

    ------------------------------------------------------
    APR Stage 3 - APR Stealth exhaust - APR downpipes - APR Bipipe - APR snub mount - AWE side mount intercoolers - AWE LWFW - RS4 clutch - ITG panel filter - JHM Shifter - Startup Racing Vogtland GT coilovers - Stern adjustable control arms - Fiber Images vented carbon fiber hood - Fiber Images carbon fiber fenders - Recaro Style Topline seats - A bunch of other stuff I can't remember

  9. #9
    Established Member Two Rings kodycobra's Avatar
    Join Date
    Jul 15 2008
    AZ Member #
    30882
    My Garage
    00S4,07 ZX14,05 AcuraTL,Z32tt
    Location
    Jefferson City, Missouri

    Re: So I guess it's time to post this problem....

    I just hope it helps you man! I was scratching my head wondering why mine wouldn't start.

  10. #10
    Veteran Member Three Rings B501S4's Avatar
    Join Date
    Sep 09 2007
    AZ Member #
    20960
    My Garage
    01.5 B5S4 Stg III RS6's Built Longblock, Cherokee Classic 4x4
    Location
    Raleigh, NC

    Re: So I guess it's time to post this problem....

    well if its the alternator i just went through that and they should be able to check at advanced auto or autozone to see if the alternator is fine without pulling it out first. good luck

  11. #11
    Active Member Four Rings FrimmelNoJerz's Avatar
    Join Date
    Sep 21 2006
    AZ Member #
    11877
    Location
    Norjerz

    Re: So I guess it's time to post this problem....

    its a new battery....but is it a new alternator or voltage regulator? also, do you have an aftermarket afterrun system?
    SBSC
    I also like to live dangerously.

  12. #12
    Veteran Member Four Rings SLC_S4's Avatar
    Join Date
    Jul 15 2007
    AZ Member #
    19559
    My Garage
    2001.5 S4
    Location
    Utah

    Re: So I guess it's time to post this problem....

    Quote Originally Posted by FrimmelNoJerz View Post
    its a new battery....but is it a new alternator or voltage regulator? also, do you have an aftermarket afterrun system?
    Well, I don't have an aftermarket afterrun system, but I do have the lower temperature thermo switch
    -Seth

    ------------------------------------------------------
    APR Stage 3 - APR Stealth exhaust - APR downpipes - APR Bipipe - APR snub mount - AWE side mount intercoolers - AWE LWFW - RS4 clutch - ITG panel filter - JHM Shifter - Startup Racing Vogtland GT coilovers - Stern adjustable control arms - Fiber Images vented carbon fiber hood - Fiber Images carbon fiber fenders - Recaro Style Topline seats - A bunch of other stuff I can't remember

  13. #13
    Active Member Four Rings FrimmelNoJerz's Avatar
    Join Date
    Sep 21 2006
    AZ Member #
    11877
    Location
    Norjerz

    Re: So I guess it's time to post this problem....

    does it stay on for a long time after the car is shut off? that killed my batteries(3) because it was installed improperly.
    SBSC
    I also like to live dangerously.

  14. #14
    Veteran Member Four Rings SLC_S4's Avatar
    Join Date
    Jul 15 2007
    AZ Member #
    19559
    My Garage
    2001.5 S4
    Location
    Utah

    Re: So I guess it's time to post this problem....

    No, it doesn't seem to stay on for a long time. It would make sense that could drain the battery, but I really don't think that's what it is.
    -Seth

    ------------------------------------------------------
    APR Stage 3 - APR Stealth exhaust - APR downpipes - APR Bipipe - APR snub mount - AWE side mount intercoolers - AWE LWFW - RS4 clutch - ITG panel filter - JHM Shifter - Startup Racing Vogtland GT coilovers - Stern adjustable control arms - Fiber Images vented carbon fiber hood - Fiber Images carbon fiber fenders - Recaro Style Topline seats - A bunch of other stuff I can't remember

  15. #15
    Veteran Member Four Rings gointoscott's Avatar
    Join Date
    Jan 26 2006
    AZ Member #
    9931
    My Garage
    2001 Audi S4
    Location
    Milwaukee, WI

    Re: So I guess it's time to post this problem....

    One thing I always do to see if the alternator is working correctlywhen I have problems with the battery dieing is: while the car is running unhook the battery and if the car dies then you know the alternator isnt charging right.

    But from all the posts I would agree it sounds like you have a small drain and or short on the battery that is killing it overnight.
    Original K03's, Ecodes, H&R Coilovers, Inmotion Chip/MBC, Piggies

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