Fiat Ducato Flat Battery

[Guest Keith]

Isn't it funny when you think you are alone when hey presto you look at the MMM BB and others have similar problem. We have a Swift 645 2003 model and up until November last year all seem well with the vehicle battery, both batterises topped up about every 4-6 weeks. Went to go away and vehicle battery "flat" (it showed as 3.6volts on the control panel) had to be jumped started. The Green flag rescue person said frequently having to jump start Fiats for this problem due to the 4/5 ECUs which all take power and they can get to the point where they suddenly call for a great deal when their inbuilt rechargeable batteries demand it sometimes in a matter of hours. Neither Fiat or Marquis were aware of such an issue when asked. Is this a factor or is it a myth Took back to Marquis where a small drain was identified on fuse 61 whatever this is and certainly the Fiat Dealer had not a clue. The Fiat daler found no fault!!! Recommended to charge every week. Said would not charge on this occasion as they get no reimbersursement from Fiat if they find nothing - what a funny old world this is Went away 2 weeks ago leaving van at home with both batteries showing charged at about 12.5volts. The alarm (Nightwatch model 161 Thatcham 3)was switched off (van kept in locked garage) returned home today and both batteries flat. Can charge the leisure via the on board charger but have to use a trickle charger for the vehicle battery as the switchover switch on the control panel will not work with the vehicle battery discharged. Spoke to Swift Customer service they were not aware of any specific problems relating to my query. Any further ideas would be welcome. Incidentally for those who may recall the problem I posted last year on the steering pulling to the left, that appears to have been resolved with the changing of the driveshafts. Best wishes to all Keith