Repeated Battery Failures

[ElizabethB]

I have a 2002 Solara with 81,000 miles. In the 5 years since I've had my Solara, the battery has failed 5 times (today for the 6th time). Each time, the car won't start at all, jumps fail, and it has to be towed. I've had it taken to the dealer since it has a 100,000 mile warranty.

Each time, the dealer runs tests (load test, drain test, etc.) and determines there is nothing draining the batter and that the battery itself is "defective." I've also had them check the starter, alternator, fuses, etc. and everything else checks out. Each time, the dealer then replaces the battery and the problem is "fixed." Anywhere from 6-12 months later, we start over. There are no after-market parts or electronics on the car that could be draining the battery.

Except for this problem, the car has been trouble free and all regular maintenance has been performed on schedule. It seems statistically improbable that I've had 5 defective batteries in 5 years.

Any thoughts or ideas about what could be causing this and how I can solve the problem? Thanks!

[Eye8Pussies]

you're right, it's not statistically possible....unless you live in a climate where it can become -40C


something in the car is draining the battery for sure, but the dealership saves money by giving you a new battery instead of tracking down electrical gremlins, which can take hours of labor and expensive electrical parts have to be replaced, since as the integration relay.

I would take it elsewhere that can test for small drains while the car is off

[littlebookworm]

It might be time to get a Toyota regional rep. involved. I spent years in the auto repair business; there is no way you would have five batteries which were defective. You've got a low level drain drawing it down. Contact Totyota Customer Relations and request a meeting with a regional rep. Make them find the reason for the drains. You don't want it to be dead at an inopportune moment. Good luck.