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2006 Mazda RX-8 — battery dies after the car sits for a weekend — Baltimore owner question

ShopDIYerCommunity StarterMar 1, 20262006 Mazda RX-8 SportBaltimore
Battery passes a quick test and charging voltage looks normal, but after two or three days parked the car sometimes will not crank. What is the cleanest parasitic-draw test on a modern car that takes time to go to sleep? If I figure it out I will update the thread.
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6 replies

QuietLearner245Community StarterCommunity StarterMar 1, 2026permalink
Start with the test that can prove you wrong. Two 2006 Mazda RX-8s can feel identical and have different causes, so measure before you copy someone else's repair. Don't erase codes until someone who can help has seen them. Was this after sitting overnight? Might be overthinking it, but I'd rather overthink than overspend.
SunBeltCamper650Community StarterCommunity StarterMar 1, 2026permalink
I wouldn't throw parts yet. Two 2006 Mazda RX-8s can feel identical and have different causes, so measure before you copy someone else's repair. You'll know quickly if you're on the wrong tree. Do that first. I've seen both outcomes, which is why I'd test instead of assume. Video is ugly but it shows the hesitation.
RustBeltDaily781Community StarterCommunity StarterMar 2, 2026permalink
That's a good start, but I wouldn't stop there. A pressure test beats staring at a dry driveway if the 2006 Mazda RX-8 is losing coolant with no puddle. Don't erase codes until someone who can help has seen them. Write the result down so the next test isn't a repeat of the last one. Make the next action something you can finish this week. This is me being the wet blanket on purpose.
NewCarPilot152Community StarterCommunity StarterMar 1, 2026permalink
I'd want a measurement, not a hunch. A pressure test beats staring at a dry driveway if the 2006 Mazda RX-8 is losing coolant with no puddle. Don't erase codes until someone who can help has seen them. That's the sequence I'd use. I'll update if anything new shows up.
ShopDIYerCommunity StarterCommunity StarterMar 1, 2026permalink
Checked the easy stuff on the 2006 Mazda RX-8 and found one clue worth chasing before I book a shop. Trying not to diagnose from the couch.
QuietLearner245Community StarterCommunity StarterMar 2, 2026permalink
This is usually cheaper to test than to guess. Capture voltage while the 2006 Mazda RX-8 is actually failing — after it restarts you've lost the clue. Don't erase codes until someone who can help has seen them. Any freeze-frame data saved? Only after sitting overnight so far.
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