The Ford system off to save battery indicates a low power level in your battery. This message is a power-saving feature managed by the battery management system. This BMS system contains how your battery charges and discharges energy.
The “system off to save battery” is primarily caused by a low battery. This low battery can be facilitated by issues such as a worn battery, a bad alternator, a loose cable, a corroded terminal, a parasitic drain, etc.
Read on to properly understand what causes “system off to save battery” and how you can fix it.
What does the message “system off to save battery” mean?
The message “System off to save battery” is a warning sign that your battery energy is draining more than usual. Your car contains electronic systems that can easily drain your battery.
Luckily, your battery management system can combat this problem of battery drains. The BMS tracks how your battery charges and discharges energy. It manages the level of energy in your battery at all times.
If energy drops below a certain level, the BMS sends the message “System off to save battery.” Once this message appears on your dashboard, all non-critical electrical components in your Ford turn off.
The only way to clear the message from your dashboard is to resolve the issue causing the battery drain. It can be done by simply turning off an interior and exterior light. In extreme cases, a total battery replacement may be needed.
Causes of Ford system off to save battery
The message “system off to save battery” can be caused by several issues. Some of the problems include:
1. Low battery Level
Low battery level is the most common cause of systems off to save battery. Normally, your battery depletes as you use the electrical appliances in your car. However, there are some actions you take that accelerate this battery drain. For instance, if you frequently leave your headlight on or your doors open overnight, your battery level will reduce quickly. In return, your dashboard will regularly display the system off to save battery warning. Consequently, your engine would take longer to start.
2. Your battery is worn out
The Systems off to save battery can also signify worn-out batteries. As you know, your battery capacity will weaken over time. When this happens, the battery will no longer be able to retain energy like before. You will notice that the battery drains at the slightest use or no longer reaches a full charge. A System off to save battery warning would appear when your battery drains faster than normal.
Your battery can wear out if you don’t drive your Ford long.
3. Bad Alternator
The alternator keeps your battery charged and powers the electrical components in your car. When the alternator becomes faulty, it will not charge the battery. Your battery power would eventually run down, and a “Systems off to save battery” would appear on your dashboard.
If a bad diode causes the faulty alternator, you may notice symptoms such as an engine stall or dim headlights.
4. Driving in extreme conditions
Driving in extreme temperatures puts unnecessary stress on your battery.
In cold temperatures, your battery exerts more power to start. During this period, your engine oil thickens, and additional power will be needed to run your electronics.
In hotter temperatures, the water in the battery acid may evaporate. It increases the chances of corrosion on the terminal.
In a nutshell, your battery capacity will drop during extreme temperatures. You may encounter the Systems off to save battery warning as your battery discharges less power during these periods.
Possible fixes for Ford system off to save battery
1. Reduce any parasitic battery drain
The first step in dealing with the system off to save battery warning is to reduce parasitic battery drain. Pay attention to things that drain your battery when the engine is off. You need to avoid leaving your interior and exterior lights on overnight.
If you do not know the cause of the parasitic drain in your vehicle, consult a mechanic for an appropriate diagnosis.
2. Replace battery
You may need a new battery if your battery is worn out and doesn’t charge properly. Replacing your old battery would automatically clear the “ Systems off to save battery warning” on your display.
3. Try taking longer trips to avoid battery drain
Leaving your car idle for a very long time can damage the battery. If fully charged and parked for long, the battery will swell and reduce capacity. When you finally decide to drive it, you may encounter power-related issues, and the message “Systems off to save battery” may pop up.
To avoid this issue from developing, keep your battery active by taking frequent trips.
4. Test the alternator
If the system off to save battery is caused by a bad alternator, it is important to
first test such an alternator. If the alternator is bad or faulty, repair or replace it immediately. Ignoring a bad alternator can easily lead to circuit overload, which can, in turn, constitute a fire hazard.
5. Check terminals and battery connections
Sometimes, this warning can be linked to loose battery connections or corroded terminals. In this case, you should check the wires and cables connected to and from the battery. You may need to clean the terminal with cloth and water to solve any corrosion issues.
Note: if you are uncertain about the cause of the “Systems off to save battery” message, drive into an automobile workshop to get a proper diagnosis.
Final thought
Technically, the “Systems off to save battery” warning message will not stop you from driving. Nonetheless, having this message on your display can reduce the pleasantness of driving. You easily lose access to accessories like your entertainment system and AC. To prevent this from happening, always try to resolve the “system off to save battery” message as it appears on your dashboard.
If the System off to save battery message persists, consult a technician or drive into a dealership for professional assistance.
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