Flat Battery etc.,

[KRG]

I'm new to this Mercedes thing with a 96 C180 and need some guidance. If the car is left for more than say 5 days the battery will run completely flat. The battery is new and tested. What I notice is that even with the ignition definitely off the dash info - milometer, temp, clock stay full on. Could this be the cause or an indicator of something else? Also, on connecting the battery there is enough of a spark to indicate that there is a significant current draw. Any thoughts before I try to find an auto electrician????

KRG

 

[marshie001]

does it stay on when the key is removed?

 

[mlc]

cant comment on the dash items - but six years at the AA taught to check that the boot light isnt staying on!

Good luck.

Mark.

 

[marshie001]

thats what i was going to suggest but, unless i read it wrong he seems to have dash lights when ignition is off!?

 

[KRG]

Yes, with the key removed the temp, miles and clock stay on albeit in dimmed mode. I'll check the boot light just in case.

 

[Myros]

nothing on

KRG,
absolutely nothing visible should be on. The speedo milometer reading should go out completely, and only come on again if you key in the ignition, or press the trip reset button shortly with the key out. Check the glovebox light as well if you have one. It should only work if the key is in the ignition and the sidelights are on. Do you have an alarm fitted, and is it working properly? You might need a meter across the battery and removal of all the fuses, one by one to find out where the drain is located, if it is drain that is your problem. The battery itself might be a bit suss, espec if it is more than 4 or 5 yrs old.