With Multimeter, In-Line Test Procedure

Use a digital volt amp-ohmmeter with an appropriate ampere scale such as Rotunda 73 Digital Multimeter 105-R0051 or equivalent.
1. Turn ignition switch OFF and make sure there are no electrical loads. After determining the engine compartment lamp is turning off properly, disconnect the lamp.
2. Check battery voltage. If voltage is under 11.5 volts, charge the battery to above 11.5 volts.
3. Disconnect battery ground cable.







4. Connect ammeter assembly as shown in the above illustration.

CAUTION: Do not crank the engine because the ammeter could be destroyed. Also do not use the ammeter to measure starting currents.

5. Set ammeter to dc amperage scale for an accurate reading.

Test Conclusion
The current reading (current drain) should be less than 0.05 amp. If the reading is between 0.2 and 0.9 amp, a possible drain may be a vehicle lamp (such as glove compartment, engine compartment, luggage compartment) that does not turn off. If the problem is not a lamp, remove the fuses one at a time until the cause of the drain is located. If still undetermined, disconnect leads at starter relay one at a time to find the problem circuit.