Performing Closed Current Draw Test

Select proper measuring device (DISplus, MoDic or DVOM)
- Remember amperage draw in excess of 10A will damage DVOM.
- Use inductive amp probe of DISplus when amperage draw is high.
  - When using DISplus inductive probe, clamp on negative battery cable with:
  - Arrow pointing away from battery. Switch off all consumers.
  - (It is not necessary to disconnect B- from body when using inductive probe).
Connect (-) test lead to negative battery terminal and (+) test lead to a known good ground.
Ensure all systems are OFF !
Be sure DVOM is on and set in proper mode.
Disconnect battery ground lead from body.
Observe meter reading, wait for vehicle to enter sleep mode.
Identify faulty circuit by disconnecting fuses, relays, control modules or connectors, observing meter readings.
Defective circuit is found when current is below maximum closed current for vehicle being tested.

Fig 1: Identifying Performing Closed Current Draw Test

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

MAXIMUM CLOSED CURRENT BY VEHICLE

E31	50mA
E32	50mA
E34	40mA
E36	30mA
E38	50mA
E39	40mA
E46	40mA
E52	50mA
E53	40mA
Z3	30mA

NOTE: Refer to appropriate article for complete instructions to perform closed circuit current measurement using measurement adapter and MoDIc adapter.