| Today's vehicles have more electrical demands then ever, and batteries play an essential role in meeting those demands. The battery supplies the electrical current that the starter motor requires to start the engine. It also provides power to the electrical components and accessories when the vehicle's engine is not running. When the electrical load exceeds the charging system's capacity, the battery steps in to supply the extra current required. The battery also acts as a voltage stabilizer for the entire electrical system.
Do-it-yourself maintenance can play an essential role in maximizing the life of your battery. It is also important to have your battery and charging system checked at least once a year. Early detection of a weak component can save you time and money. Look for a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility near you that has the proper testing equipment to perform a complete check of your vehicle's battery, as well as your vehicle's charging and electrical systems.
- Although batteries may appear to be uncomplicated, they can be one of the most dangerous components to service if care and caution is not used. Follow the precautions listed on the battery and in your owner's manual. Also, the following precautions will help to avoid injuries.
- Wear eye protection and gloves when servicing or working around the battery.
- Avoid dropping the battery. Batteries can be heavy and can cause injuries if dropped.
- Avoid tipping the battery because sulfuric acid may spill out and cause burns.
- Never smoke when servicing your battery, or subject the battery to a spark or open flame. Explosive hydrogen gas is present and can ignite.
- Remove all jewelry before servicing the battery. A watch or ring touching a battery post may cause an explosive spark or burn.
- Be sure to wash your hands with soap and water after handling a battery. This will help neutralize any acid you may have come into contact with.
- Never place tools on top of the battery. Tools can cause a short across battery posts or cables.
Whether you have a vent-cap battery, in which the caps can be removed to add fluid when it gets low, or a "maintenance-free" battery that is sealed, some regular maintenance is needed to ensure your battery works safely and effectively. Many batteries are labeled as maintenance free, but are actually serviceable. You should check the electrolyte level and add fluid, if needed.
The simplest maintenance procedure you can perform is keeping the battery case clean. Dirt and residue can actually cause a current drain on the battery. Clean the battery case by wiping it with moist paper towels and mild detergent.
If the battery has removable vent caps, on a monthly basis, remove the caps and check the level of the electrolyte, which is a solution of sulfuric acid and water found inside your battery. The level of the electrolyte should rise above the top plates of the battery. If fluid is needed, add water, but be sure to avoid overfilling the cells. Distilled water can be purchased at most grocery stores and is recommended to be used instead of tap water, which may contain mineral deposits that can adversely effect battery life.
There are typically two ways to distinguish positive from negative: (a) color-codes: red for positive and black for negative; and (b) symbols: + for positive, - for negative. On post-type terminals, the positive post is the larger of the two. Don't pry the cable clamp off the battery post because this may harm the battery case or cause internal damage. Check the batteries posts and terminals for loose connections and cracks.
Always install the positive cable first, followed by the negative cable.
Always remove the cable from the negative battery terminal first, followed by the positive.
Inspect the battery case for cracks and bulging, as these are signs of a failing battery. You also need to look for corrosion around the battery terminal connections and battery hold-down. Corrosion can be cleaned off with a small, stiff brush and a solution of baking soda and water. After removing the corrosion, rinse the battery with water. (Capture the used water in suitable container, such as a plastic drain pan, and dispose of it properly.)
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