A Texas comedian has exposed a troubling issue with the 2025 Chevrolet Traverse that forces owners to choose between a dead battery and vehicle security. Ishmael (@ishmamba) shared his frustrating experience with his new SUV in a TikTok that has garnered over 60,000 views. In the video, Ishmael demonstrates an embarrassing routine he must perform every time he parks his $60,000 vehicle: manually disconnecting the battery terminal to prevent the battery from dying, which then leaves his car completely unsecured. "Hey guys, do you own a 2025 Chevrolet Traverse like me? Oh, you don't? Well, here's reasons why not to buy one, OK?" Ishmael begins his video while driving his SUV, which shows 16,986 miles on the odometer. The Texas-based comedian explains the daily inconvenience he faces with his high-trim Z71 Traverse. "Come with me so I can show you what we have to do so our car doesn't die while being parked," he says. "Okay, so first you pop the hood. Mind you, we're in a town 20 miles away at a restaurant. This is so embarrassing," Ishmael explains while demonstrating the process. The Battery Terminal Workaround Standing in front of his raised hood, Ishmael shows viewers the crude fix required to prevent his battery from draining. He points to the terminal and says, “What we have to do every day, inconveniently, is undo this and pull off the terminal from the battery.” As he speaks, he loosens the negative battery terminal. OWNERSHIP STORIES Viral stories from across the web Our team of experts tracks what owners are saying about car-shopping, repairs, the daily driving experience and more on social media. The process works to prevent battery drain, but it creates a security vulnerability. "By you doing that, everybody has access to your car," Ishmael explains, demonstrating that disconnecting the battery disables the vehicle's electronic locking system. A Parasitic Drain Problem The issue Ishmael describes is known in automotive circles as a "parasitic draw" or "parasitic drain"—when electrical components continue using power when the vehicle is turned off. While some parasitic draw is normal for newer vehicles with memory seats, radio presets, and other electronics, excessive drain can deplete a battery. In modern vehicles packed with electronic systems, this can quickly drain a battery if left unchecked. One commenter offered professional advice, "As a mechanic all I can say is 'just get the parasitic draw diagnosed and fixed.'" Another user, Corey C, was even more helpful. "Sent you a message of a video about your exact problem. Parasitic draw on your battery," they wrote. Ishmael responded, "Thank you brother, I know it's that module but now I know what fuse to pull." Not an Isolated Incident The comments section revealed that Ishmael's experience isn't unique among 2025 Traverse owners. "Me watching in my 2025 Chevy Traverse," wrote Crystal, with Jackie and doraleec chiming in with "same lol" and "SAME." The problems extend beyond battery drain. User Vic shared a more severe experience: "Mine was giving me issues. Oil consumption. First 9k miles I had 7 oil changes. Dealership didn't want to help me. I contacted GM directly, threatened getting a lawyer. I got a whole new engine!!" Another wrote, "Just bought a 2025 Traverse and the first day we had it the computer in the dash went out." The video triggered broader discussions about 2025 Traverse reliability. Independent reports indicate the 2025 Traverse has experienced numerous problems, including transmission failures, electrical system malfunctions, and brake problems. Alternative Vehicle Suggestions The comment section became a discussion on vehicle choices, with many users questioning Ishmael's purchase decision. "60k for a Traverse when you could have gotten a Toyota Landcruiser for the same money," wrote Jessica LF. Others suggested various alternatives. "Coulda got a used Lexus for half that," suggested Marcus Musgrove, while Kevin noted, "I bought a 2025 Pilot because I know ball." The criticism extended to GM products generally. "Buying a GM product in 2025 is certainly a choice," commented Kamron Gatlin, while Greg added, "Reason #1 because it's a Chevy! And I own a 2018 Silverado. That is about the time that quality nosedived!" Gallery: 2025 Chevrolet Traverse Review Dealer Response and Warranty Coverage Several commenters urged Ishmael to use his warranty coverage. "Nawww take that back to the dealer ship and use that warranty and have them fix that!" wrote Skylar, earning 183 likes from viewers who agreed. This advice highlights the point that these issues should be covered under the vehicle's manufacturer warranty. Chevrolet's bumper-to-bumper warranty covers most vehicle components for 3 years or 36,000 miles, including repairs due to defects in materials or workmanship, while the powertrain warranty extends for 5 years or 60,000 miles. Dealers should be held accountable for resolving problems properly rather than leaving customers to perform daily workarounds. The Broader Implications Ishmael's video demonstrates how electronic complexity in modern cars can create problems that didn't exist in simpler vehicles. It also shows how these problems can force owners into unsafe workarounds that compromise vehicle security. The video illustrates the importance of thorough pre-purchase research and the value of strong warranty coverage when buying new vehicles from manufacturers experiencing quality issues. Motor1 reached out to Ishmael via TikTok direct message for additional comment. We'll be sure to update this if he responds. We want your opinion! What would you like to see on Motor1.com? 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