6.0
fairly significant
electrical problem
I have found out why the Buick Vrano has such a short battery life. Computer in car is programed to keep alternator at an extremely low charge rate to help increase gas millage a VERY small amount. Maybe ONE TENTH of a MPG. Under normal driving conditions it only charges at 12.5 volts during the daylight. So what happens is that battery is slowly depleted and will die quickly. I am on my third battery in 3 1/2 years and 26,000 miles.
However at night time or when temperature is below 32 degree battery will charge normally at between 13.9 and 14.3 range. I do not know of a fix, but the computer cam be tricked into working normally. Cover up the light sensor in the middle of the dash, and computer thinks is it night time. Alternator will charge normally, but you head and running lights will come on ALL the time. I found that is a lot better then all the dead batteries.
I think that Buick needs to come up with a permanent fix for this problem.
- dr quick, Murfreesboro, TN, US
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A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
After weeks of researching, I had to bring it in to the shop for a diagnostic appointment. These blind spot detector modules are expensive and leaving them in need of repair drains the battery VERY quickly (extra quickly in cold weather).
- Amanda D., Sheboygan, WI, US