2002 Ford Explorer Logo
Richard Fay Jr Posted on Dec 01, 2015
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Limited. What is causing battery drain?

Security system self activates when not running - small info screen in lower right of dash blinks every once in a while - lights come on and drain battery when parked. Been told it is the GEM module. Can It be DIY replaced?

  • Jeff Armer Dec 01, 2015

    What lights come on an drain battery ?

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Jeff Armer

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  • Ford Master 15,575 Answers
  • Posted on Dec 01, 2015
Jeff Armer
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To find out what is draining the battery do a parasitic draw test . How To Perform Parasitic Draw Test EricTheCarGuy Test to be sure , before replacing GEM module .I would also have the GEM checked for DTC'S - diagnostic trouble codes . I would also check the battery saver relay .
SECTION 417-02: Interior Lighting 2000 Explorer/Mountaineer Workshop Manual DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION Procedure revision date: 06/17/1999 Interior Lighting The interior lighting system consists of the following:

  • dome/map lamp
  • rear dome/cargo lamp
  • overhead console/map lamp
  • RH/LH vanity mirror
  • ash receptacle lamp
  • puddle lamps
  • interior lamp switches
  • interior lamp relay
  • dimmer module
  • battery saver relay
  • generic electronic module (GEM)
Generic Electronic Module (GEM)/Central Timer Module (CTM) Controlled Functions
The generic electronic module (GEM) is equipped on four-wheel drive vehicles with power windows. The central timer module (CTM) is equipped only on two-wheel drive vehicles without power windows.
NOTE: GEM/CTM diagnostics are compatible with the scan tool.
The GEM/CTM incorporates the functions of several different modules into one, and offers diagnostics to easily locate and repair concerns affecting the subsystems that it controls.
The GEM/CTM constantly monitors the systems it controls and reports a concern in the form of a diagnostic trouble code (DTC). A DTC can be retrieved with the scan tool through the communication link.
The scan tool is a menu-driven tester that allows the user to run specific tests. The scan tool can isolate faults in the GEM/CTM subsystems through a symptom-driven diagnostic procedure. Connecting the scan tool to the GEM/CTM communication link will not alert the GEM/CTM. If the GEM/CTM is "asleep" when the diagnostic connector is plugged in, the GEM/CTM must be "awakened". If the communication link cannot be established, turn the ignition to RUN.
NOTE: The GEM/CTM has a sleep function to minimize battery consumption. During the sleep mode, the GEM/CTM turns off all outputs and monitors only the following:
  • door ajar (driver door, passenger door, liftgate, LH rear and RH rear doors).
  • key-in-ignition.
  • key in RUN or ACC.
  • two-step unlock switch (unarm switch).
  • digital TR sensor.
  • illuminated entry request (remote anti-theft personality [RAP] module).
If a change of status occurs at one of these inputs while the GEM/CTM is "asleep", the GEM/CTM will "wake up." When the GEM/CTM awakens, it carries out an internal self-test, and begins normal operation. At this point, the GEM/CTM will have all of its functions operational.
The GEM/CTM will go into the sleep mode immediately after both of the following conditions have been met:
  • key in OFF or key not in ignition.
  • after 45 minutes with no change in any wake-up input.
The GEM/CTM control system has two modes of operation; the normal operating mode and the tester-dependent diagnostics mode.
Normal operation of the GEM/CTM can detect errors. An integral part of normal GEM/CTM operation is continuous diagnostic capability. Continuous diagnostics detects errors and changes the GEM/CTM control strategy. There is no warning lamp for the GEM/CTM; therefore, a DTC concern will direct you to the GEM/CTM. Examples of faults that may be detected during normal operation include:
NOTE: The GEM/CTM can only detect open circuit/short to GRD faults when the GEM/CTM is not energizing a load, and short to battery faults when the GEM/CTM is attempting to energize a load.
  • GEM/CTM continuous self-test (RAM, ROM, EEPROM, A/D checking).
  • output driver monitoring (open circuit/short to ground [GRD], short to power).
  • illogical combinations of input signals.

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Marvin, 1st thing if able to do so, is check for good battery, it should be no lower then 12.2 volts to enable vehicle to start. A good charged battery would be 14.4 volts or higher.
If you know battery is OK, I would say that your cars security system has been activated and you will have to follow instructions from your manual to reset security.
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Please rate my info. You might try adding a battery charger for a few minutes before you try starting it and see what effects it has.

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