This is not entirely unexpected due to my driving style and I understand "Take longer drives." My question is whether this should be considered terminal battery failure soon and / or whether longer drives will save it for much longer? I have no way to run a trickle charge conveniently. Battery OEM in service new with me 4 yrs 3 months so doesn't particularly owe me much more.

 

I would replace the battery as it is over 4 years old.

Though not proven, I have a theory that the auto stop / start can have a negative effect on the battery and starter over time. Since new I turn it off when starting truck.

Short of using a battery trickle charger running the truck in idle is the most economical option.

Good Luck

 

How many of the following apply to your use of the truck?
Vehicle sets unused for more than 14 days.
Ambient Battery temperature very cold.
Battery voltage drops below 9.5 volts.
An excess drain during Sleep mode.
Any of the above can trigger the display.
Good luck.

 

BG,

None of your items specifically pertain and I realize battery life varies. This is the first time sleep mode occurred and it's not that cold in NJ. Truck may sit a few days at a time and I turn everything off possible when exiting. It's just my short tun usage I'm sure. I just wasn't sure if the warning was more imminent or if I had a little time to get it done. I think I'm a prudent owner and I think perhaps it's time to call it a day and get a new OEM during my Quick Lane visit in a week or two. Thx.

 

A 35 mile round trip on the Interstate @ 65MPH brought some like back and hopefully will keep me rolling until after the Holidays. Tkx for the coaching guys.

 

There is zero need to replace a battery until you've had it load tested to see if in fact it's failing. Testing is free usually.

 

Rick, that was my plan for my next oil change visit to the dealer just after the New Year holiday. Hopefully it's all from my short run driving which is easily remedied until then.

 

I would also have the battery tested, and just fyi, if it sits a lot and mostly short trips, maybe consider a solar trickle / maintainer charger. Amazon has many to choose from.