what causes my Toyota Camry battery to die overnight?

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather tools: multimeter, socket set, wrenches, battery terminal cleaner.
• Ensure the vehicle is in a well-ventilated area and parked on a level surface.

2. Inspect and Clean Battery Terminals

• Disconnect the negative (-) terminal first, followed by the positive (+) terminal.
• Clean any corrosion using a battery terminal cleaner. Ensure the connections are free of dirt and grime.
• Reconnect the positive (+) terminal first, then the negative (-) terminal.

3. Replace the Battery (if necessary)

• If the battery voltage is significantly low or the battery is old, replace it.
• Remove the battery hold-down clamp using the appropriate socket.
• Carefully lift the battery out of the tray and replace it with a new one.
• Ensure the new battery terminals are connected securely.

4. Check and Repair Electrical Components

• Inspect fuses and wiring for any damage. Replace any blown fuses.
• Repair any damaged wiring or connections that could be causing a parasitic draw.

5. Test and Verify

• Start the engine and check the voltage at the battery terminals with the engine running to ensure proper alternator output.
• If the voltage is within the specified range, the issue is resolved.