Electrical issue

[Cooper1275]

Hi guys,

Hoping someone with a bit more knowledge on this can give me some insight.

The battery on my mini started draining flat in between weekend drives (so 5-7 days) a few weeks ago, something it had never done before.

I checked that it was being charged correctly and that alternator was working, all good there.

had the battery tested and there was a weak cell so replaced it with a brand new Willard.

Thought I had it solved, but same problem.

So far I have checked that there isn't anything obvious draining the battery and now running out of ideas.

is it possible that a defective relay could cause this? looks to me like the relay for the hooter (and wipers?) is not working because fuses are not blown and hooter/wipers have stopped working but not sure I see how that would drain the battery if the  hooter/wipers aren't operating?

Another option that Google suggests is that the main positive cable from the battery to the solenoid is earthing on the body from wear and tear somewhere (often in the bend up into the engine bay apparently) in my mind that would cause a dead short and heat/sparks though...will check that tonight too for the record.

Any other tips on what to check?

Regards, Craig