Reduce Dark Current in Your Rivian with Gear Guard Security System
Rivian's Gear Guard is an advanced security system that uses AI to monitor the vehicle and its surroundings. It can detect suspicious activity and alert the owner if something is amiss. When enabled, it draws power from the battery even when the car is parked.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are known for their low energy consumption while in use, but they still draw a small amount of power while parked. This phenomenon is called “dark current” or “parasitic drain” and it can cause range loss over time. Rivian owners have reported dark current levels as high as 3-6 kWh per day, which is higher than expected.
To reduce this draw, Rivian recommends disabling certain features such as Sentry Mode at home or work, turning off AC inverters when not in use, and avoiding frequent "checking in" via the app or website. Additionally, Rivian suggests using the main battery cutoff switch when parking the vehicle for extended periods of time.
Gear Guard is another feature that may be contributing to the high dark current levels. While this advanced security system provides peace of mind with its AI monitoring capabilities, it also draws power from the battery when enabled. To avoid unnecessary range loss, Rivian owners should consider disabling Gear Guard when not in use.
It is important to note that some level of parasitic drain is normal for all EVs, regardless of make or model. However, a continuous draw of 125W-250W seems excessive and could indicate a software bug or something left on by mistake. If you are experiencing unusually high dark current levels, contact Rivian customer service for troubleshooting assistance.
In conclusion, dark current is a normal phenomenon for EVs and can be managed with proper maintenance. Rivian owners should take steps to reduce their draw by disabling certain features when not in use, using the main battery cutoff switch when parking for extended periods of time, and contacting customer service if they experience unusually high levels.
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I lost 5-10 miles even the car stays in parking. Any idea to stop the bleed?
Is Gear Guard turned on? If so, turn it off. Also, check if the 120V AC power outlets were left in the ‘on’ setting and set Sentry mode to "Off at Home". Additionally, check in via the app or website frequently to prevent the system from going into deep sleep mode. Lastly, Rivian suggests deactivating certain optional features to reduce power draw.
How can I reduce the power drain while parked?
Set Sentry mode to "Off at Home" and check if the 120V AC power outlets were left in the ‘on’ setting. Additionally, check in via the app or website frequently to prevent the system from going into deep sleep mode. Lastly, Rivian suggests deactivating certain optional features to reduce power draw.
Is it normal for an EV to draw some power while sitting?
Yes, all EV's draw some power while sitting due to battery self-discharge and from electronic devices on the car which may be constantly using some power even when the vehicle is off.
Is a 3-6 kWh drain in a 24hr period excessive?
Yes, that’s like a space heater running for 2-4 hours. Could a handful of what are essentially webcams plus a small processor really draw that much power? It could be a software bug that isn't shutting something down (quickly fixed with an OTA update after the issue is found and fixed). But it could also be something you've left on.
What should I do if Rivian gets back to me on this?
Rivian may suggest software tweaks that need to be done OTA to reduce parasitic drain. Additionally, they may suggest checking outside air temps lately as well as other options mentioned in their Owners Guide. If Rivian suggests any hardware changes, make sure to get a quote from an authorized service center before proceeding.