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Wallstreet43 · 12-12-2010, 06:16 PM

New tow vehicle 2011 Traverse. Having problems with the batteries going dead after being towed. Book says to pull BATT 1 fuse. Did that and had a dead battery. Then noticed the "Auto" lights were on even when the fuse was pulled. So next time, pulled Batt 1 and turned off the auto lights. Same result. Anyone else having this problem or have heard of this?
Thanks

Gary RVRoamer · 12-13-2010, 11:19 AM

Are you sure you have the right fuse? Batt1 is a big, 50 amp rectangular thing and should remove just about all power to the dashboard area. I have a GMC Acadia sister to your Traverse and it works fine for me.

I'm not sure I understand the "Auto" lights, though. Do you mean the automatic headlights? If your headlights are staying on then perhaps the key is not in the ACCessory position? The headlights should not come on unless the ignition is ON. Your car is equipped with daytime driving lights and are on all the time but only when the ignition is on.

racer0624 · 12-15-2010, 04:20 AM

In addition to BATT1, also pull a 15amp mini-fuse labeled "ECM" just to the right of BATT1. This was recommended by my dealer who says he got the info from Buick saying my owners manual is wrong.

I also use a Toad Charge so I really don't know what would happen to the battery charge if I didn't.

I got a taller version of the 50 amp fuse too.

Gary RVRoamer · 12-15-2010, 08:44 AM

Better than pulling the fuse each time, add a switch to the fuse circuit.

KSDP_PA · 12-15-2010, 08:50 AM

had a similar problem with 2009 Buick Enclave.

I turned the key farther than ACC >>>> dead battery.

Make sure to turn the key only one click and you should be fine.

On a related note, some have chimed in that they don't leave the keys in -- that the steering wheel doesn't really lock. Haven't been brave enough to try that.

tpm64 · 12-15-2010, 09:39 AM

We have an 08 Outlook and tow it with the key out and never pull a fuse.

Do a search here for towing and Acadia (that historically has been the most popular model) so that you see all options that are out there.

Wallstreet43 · 12-16-2010, 06:58 PM

You are 100% correct. GM contacted us and confirms that 2 fuses must be pulled. The manuals for the Car are incorrect. Got corrected pages from GM Owners web site, and have made copies for our manual.

Wallstreet43 · 12-16-2010, 07:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wallstreet43

New tow vehicle 2011 Traverse. Having problems with the batteries going dead after being towed. Book says to pull BATT 1 fuse. Did that and had a dead battery. Then noticed the "Auto" lights were on even when the fuse was pulled. So next time, pulled Batt 1 and turned off the auto lights. Same result. Anyone else having this problem or have heard of this?
Thanks

To all owners of 2011 Traverse front wheel drive, the owners manual is wrong. You must pull the ECM 15 amp fuse along with the 5o amp bat 1 fuse. GM comfirms this. You can get an update from the GM web page or ask your dealer to go on line. Thanks to all who replied.

Gary RVRoamer · 12-18-2010, 05:58 PM

Wonder if that applies to its sister vehicles , i.e. 2011 Acadia and 2011 Enclave? Anybody have one of those?

Mutt · 02-11-2011, 08:53 PM

I have the 2011 Enclave AWD. I pull the 50 Amp(Batt 1) fuse and it seems to work O.K. No dead battery after a long tow period so far. I have also tried removing the key as suggested by a poster. This is possible to remove the key after putting the car in neutral. But, unlike the Outlook, the steering wheel does lock when the switch is turned to off, and the key is removed. So, for now, I suppose it's either, wire the fuse box to a switch, or be bothered with having to open the hood, remove the fuse cover, and remove/replace the fuse each time you want to start the car. This is a pain. I should have looked into this tow feature more before making a GM purchase. Can only blame myself. Good luck to all.
David

Gary RVRoamer · 02-12-2011, 07:04 PM

The switch is easy enough to install - I have one in my Acadia. I left the switch under the hood, but you could run the wire to the cockpit if you wanted. However, it takes only a second to pop the hood and flip the big switch (I used a long handle type for convenience). In fact, my wife does it while I'm hooking on the tow bar.

Dadeaux · 02-12-2011, 08:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gary RVRoamer

Better than pulling the fuse each time, add a switch to the fuse circuit.

I like your setup, hopefully you won't object to me stealing it.

Gary RVRoamer · 02-13-2011, 10:11 AM

Not at all!

doublej1808 · 03-31-2011, 03:35 PM

In my 2011 Enclave, when I turn off the switch for the ECM and then back on, it brings up several messages on the console, such as stabilitrack etc. also the check engine light is now on. Hoow do you keep these messages from coming up, or do you not worry about them?

doublej