2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Battery Draining? Here's the Fix

How to Fix Battery Drain on Your 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Experiencing battery drain on your 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee can be frustrating, leaving you stranded or causing premature battery failure. Owners have reported various issues, from simple mis-installations to more complex problems related to the liftgate module. As one owner stated, "There's a tsb for a battery drain involving the lift gate module so that can be fixed. Also could just be from sitting cause batteries have become junk the fast few years."

Symptoms

Owners experiencing battery issues with their vehicle have reported several symptoms. One common complaint is a feeling of general unease, sometimes manifesting as headaches or dizziness. This isn't directly related to the battery itself, but the stress of dealing with a potentially unreliable vehicle can certainly contribute to these feelings.

Another reported symptom is what some owners describe as "battery drain gremlins." This refers to the seemingly random and unexplained discharge of the battery, especially when the vehicle is parked and not in use. This can lead to a dead battery and the inability to start the engine, even after a short period of inactivity.

Proximity wake-up issues have also been mentioned. This refers to the vehicle's inability to properly detect the key fob, leading to difficulties starting the engine or unlocking the doors. While this could be related to the key fob battery itself, it can also be a symptom of a larger battery drain issue affecting the vehicle's electrical system. As one owner described, pushing the main fob into the start button sometimes helps, especially when the vehicle is having trouble detecting the key.

Finally, some owners have experienced stress and anxiety due to the unpredictable nature of the battery drain. The uncertainty of whether the vehicle will start can be a significant source of concern, especially for those who rely on their vehicle for daily commutes or important errands.

Most Likely Cause

Based on owner reports, one likely cause of battery problems in the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee is excessive parasitic drain. This occurs when electrical components continue to draw power from the battery even when the vehicle is turned off. Several factors can contribute to parasitic drain, including faulty modules, improperly installed accessories, or even a malfunctioning liftgate module as mentioned by one owner.

How to Diagnose

To diagnose the cause of your 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee battery drain, you will need a few essential tools: a multimeter, a socket set, and potentially a battery load tester. Start by visually inspecting the battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections. Clean the terminals if necessary and ensure they are securely fastened.

Next, perform a parasitic draw test using the multimeter. To do this, disconnect the negative battery cable and connect the multimeter in series between the cable and the negative battery terminal. Make sure all doors are closed, the key is removed from the ignition, and all accessories are turned off. Allow the vehicle to "sleep" for about 30-45 minutes to allow all modules to shut down.

Once the vehicle is in sleep mode, observe the multimeter reading. A normal parasitic draw should be less than 50 milliamps (0.05 amps). If the reading is significantly higher, there is likely a parasitic drain. To isolate the source of the drain, start pulling fuses one at a time, observing the multimeter reading after each fuse is pulled. When the reading drops significantly, the circuit associated with that fuse is the source of the drain.

After identifying the problematic circuit, further investigation may be needed to pinpoint the specific component causing the drain. This may involve consulting wiring diagrams, testing individual components, or seeking the assistance of a qualified technician. If clinking noises and sporadic starting are the issue, it could be the starter itself. As one owner noted: "In my experience, any clinking noises and sporadic starting is the starter. The voltage reading rules out the battery."

Step-by-Step Fix

1. Check Battery Connections: Begin by inspecting the battery terminals and connections. Ensure they are clean, free from corrosion, and securely tightened. Loose or corroded connections can prevent the battery from charging properly and contribute to drain issues.

2. Inspect Battery Placement: Double-check the battery placement. As one owner shared: "I thought for certain I installed the new ones correctly, only to spend $30 at the garage for a diagnostics that pointed to battery being placed the wrong way"

3. Perform a Parasitic Draw Test: Use a multimeter to measure the parasitic draw on the battery. Disconnect the negative battery cable and connect the multimeter in series between the cable and the negative terminal. Let the vehicle sit for at least 30 minutes to allow all modules to enter sleep mode. A normal draw should be less than 50 milliamps.

4. Isolate the Circuit: If the parasitic draw is excessive, start pulling fuses one at a time, checking the multimeter reading after each fuse is removed. When the reading drops significantly, the circuit associated with that fuse is likely the source of the drain.

5. Inspect the Liftgate Module: Based on owner reports, the liftgate module can sometimes be a source of battery drain. Check for any signs of damage or corrosion, and consider having it inspected by a qualified technician.

6. Check the Key Fob: If you're experiencing proximity wake-up issues, ensure the key fob battery is in good condition. Also, try pushing your main fob into the start button as suggested by one owner: "Did you try pushing your main fob into the start button? Typically when the vehicle is having issues detecting the key, the instrument cluster would light up suggesting that."

7. Inspect the Starter: If you hear clinking noises and sporadic starting, the starter might be the issue. Consult a mechanic to check the voltage and overall functionality of the starter.

8. Replace or Repair Faulty Components: Once you've identified the source of the battery drain, replace or repair the faulty component. This may involve replacing a module, repairing wiring, or addressing other issues causing the drain.

9. Reconnect the Battery: After addressing the issue, reconnect the negative battery cable and ensure it is securely fastened.

10. Monitor Battery Performance: Monitor the battery's performance over the next few days to ensure the issue is resolved. Check the battery voltage regularly and observe for any signs of recurring drain.

Parts and Tools Needed

• Multimeter
• Socket set
• Battery terminal cleaner
• Replacement battery (if needed)
• Fuses (various sizes)
• Replacement modules or components (if identified as faulty)
• Battery load tester (optional)
• Battery vent hose

Real Owner Costs

• Professional Diagnostic: As mentioned by one owner, a professional diagnostic can cost around $30. "I thought for certain I installed the new ones correctly, only to spend $30 at the garage for a diagnostics that pointed to battery being placed the wrong way". This can be a worthwhile investment to accurately identify the source of the battery drain.
• Battery Replacement: Depending on the type and brand, a new battery can range from $150 to $300.
• Module Replacement: Replacing a faulty module can be more expensive, potentially costing several hundred dollars depending on the specific module and labor costs.
• Starter Replacement: Replacing a starter can be costly, usually ranging from $200 to $500, depending on the brand and labor fees.

DIY vs. Shop Comparison:

• DIY: Diagnosing and addressing simple issues like loose battery connections or a faulty key fob battery can be done DIY, saving you on labor costs. However, more complex issues like parasitic drain or module replacements may require specialized tools and expertise, making a professional repair a better option.
• Professional: A professional mechanic can accurately diagnose and repair complex battery drain issues, ensuring the job is done correctly and preventing further damage to your vehicle's electrical system. While this option is more expensive, it can provide peace of mind and prevent costly repairs down the road.

Prevention

To prevent battery drain issues in your 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee, consider the following:

• Regular Battery Maintenance: Clean battery terminals regularly and ensure they are securely tightened.
• Minimize Accessory Use: Avoid leaving accessories like lights or radios on when the vehicle is not running.
• Address Electrical Issues Promptly: If you notice any electrical issues, such as flickering lights or a slow-cranking engine, address them promptly to prevent further damage and battery drain.
• Avoid Short Trips: Frequent short trips can prevent the battery from fully charging, contributing to premature battery failure.
• Use a Battery Tender: If you plan to store your vehicle for an extended period, use a battery tender to keep the battery charged and prevent it from going dead.
• Ensure proper battery placement: Ensure proper battery placement as described by one owner.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from JEEP owners:

Success Stories

"I had a the main fuse blow on mine after I replaced the aux battery. The 150amp blew so nothing worked lol." — BradfordClear (source)

Owner Experiences

"Did you try pushing your main fob into the start button? Typically when the vehicle is having issues detecting the key, the instrument cluster would light up suggesting that, usually helps with low battery or key issues to still trigger a start." — Keenstein (source)

"Fobs are typically matching from the factory. This may mean that the key(s) were miscut then as they were likely replaced, if not the main - the spare for sure.. though it could be the lock cylinder.." — Keenstein (source)

"In my experience, any clinking noises and sporadic starting is the starter. The voltage reading rules out the battery." — AJ_ace (source)

Real Repair Costs

"Double check the battery placement. I thought for certain I installed the new ones correctly, only to spend $30 at the garage for a diagnostics that pointed to battery being placed the wrong way" — j0n66 (source)

"I thought for certain I installed the new ones correctly, only to spend $30 at the garage for a diagnostics that pointed to battery being placed the wrong way" — j0n66 (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix a battery drain issue?

A: The time it takes to fix a battery drain issue can vary depending on the complexity of the problem. Simple fixes like cleaning battery terminals or replacing a fuse may take only a few minutes. More complex issues like parasitic drain or module replacements can take several hours or even days to diagnose and repair.

Q: Can I drive with a battery drain?

A: Driving with a battery drain is not recommended. A battery drain can lead to a dead battery and the inability to start the engine, leaving you stranded. Additionally, a battery drain can put a strain on the charging system, potentially leading to further damage.

Q: Is this a common issue on the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

A: While not all 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee owners experience battery drain issues, it is a relatively common complaint. Factors like the vehicle's age, usage patterns, and environmental conditions can contribute to battery drain problems.

Q: DIY vs. mechanic - what's recommended?

A: For simple issues like cleaning battery terminals or replacing a fuse, a DIY approach may be sufficient. However, for more complex issues like parasitic drain or module replacements, a professional mechanic is recommended. A mechanic has the tools, expertise, and experience to accurately diagnose and repair these issues, ensuring the job is done correctly and preventing further damage to your vehicle.