Battery life, radio with car off

[Baker7888]

Hey guys, we were hoping to catch a drive in movie in the Malibu, they broadcast over an FM channel. I have a newer head unit and 4 - 6” round speakers, no amplifiers or anything like that. Roughly how long would it take to drain a battery? It seems healthy but it’s an older battery. I do not own a jumper pack although i suppose i could buy one.

 

[SS_Malibu]

There is typically a reserve number on the battery along with the CCA number. Example: 115 minute reserve etc. That would give you a guideline as to battery life. That is why you hear cars starting up during the movie.

 

[69hurstolds]

Buy one of those jumper packs just in case. I can't believe I never had one of these since the last few years. Watch out though. Some of them have batteries that swell and expand and break out of their shell. Literally. First one I bought lasted about 3 years and was a Schumacher brand, but that doesn't mean much. I think they all work their way out of a grass hut in China somewhere. I knew it was an issue when I seen the case popping open by itself. Not good.

So I bought a new one. I've saved my brother in law, the next door neighbor, and the next door neighbor's handyman (diesel truck) with this thing.

Gooloo GT4000S. Amazon has a pretty good deal on them right now for 109.99 in the U.S. Worth every penny IMO.

 

[Ernest]

Nice review on that jump starter, lQQks like a winner.

 

[melloelky]

turning your key backwards should power the radio and only the radio,much less batt drain for your movie going situation.

 

[383_StealthRam]

I'm kinda thinking unless you have some serious audio equipment that's pulling significant current, you could probably run your factory radio with (non amplified, aka Bose like) speakers for several hours on even the most basic reserve capacity battery.

 

[Baker7888]

Thanks guys, I will give it a go. Bought the NOCO 100A booster, about $100. I have their trickle charger and really like it. Seems to be high quality.

 

[melloelky]

i think you'll be ok but those jump packs are nice.Let us know how the drive in movie goes.