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I have several issues with my 2002 Chevy Express 3500. The biggest problem is it has a parasitic battery drain. There are times I can go out the next day and it’s dead, but sometimes it can be several days longer. Also, the gas gauge doesn’t work and always shows full, and I’m not sure the other gauges are working properly either. The turn signal turns fast like the indicator that a turn signal or light is out, but none are. When the brake is pressed, I believe the reverse light comes on and perhaps the top light and not the regular brake lights. (I can’t remember for sure now) I didn’t know if all this could be connected with one fix, or if there were many issues to take care of. The turn signal does not turn off after turning right either. I can’t afford to just replace parts in a trial and error manner. I’ve watched your video about parasitic power drains, but didn’t know if it would work in a situation like this. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
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One suggestion:
Concerning your lights, if you have a tow package may want to look at the trailer light wiring.
You may have a short somewhere.As far as your lights are concerned, you may consider checking the grounds to the light sockets for the brake / turn signal lights. That will definitely cause the wrong lights to illuminate. Your gas gauge problem may be either a stuck floater ball in the tank, or more commonly a faulty gauge cluster, as they always go out on those. the gauges are driven by stepper motors that often fail, The steering wheel return lever inside the column on the multifunction switch may also be broken, as to why your blinkers dont turn off after a right turn. Try replacing the multifunction switch / blinker lever. So all in all, it sounds like you have multiple problems.
My wife turned the van on yesterday to put the windows down and shut it off. About 20 minutes later the van wouldn’t start, but jumping it worked. Does this sound like a ground short?
Check your charging system and battery.
Perform a parasitic draw test.
If the correct turn signal bulbs are installed, the flasher for the turn signals may be at fault. The other lights would have to be manually checked individually to confirm proper function or error. Use a DVOM and look for battery voltage.
All you can really do for the fuel gauge is confirm the wiring and that the sending unit function. You’re going to have to source a wiring diagram and checking the sending unit will probably be easiest to do under the dash because of where the pump is. Check the resistance when you know the level is significantly low and again when you know the tank is full. If there’s no difference the sender is broken. At that point the fuel tank has to be dropped to repair it at which point I would suggest replacing everything.
If your other gauges aren’t working, you could be looking at a module failure of wither the body control module (BCM) or gauge module. If you can find a wiring diagram and find a connection or other point that the systems have in common that’s usually a good place to start.
http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/solving-automotive-electrical-problems
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