Checking & Charging the Battery

The majority of modern car batteries need very little maintenance, and most should be expected to last 5 years before they need replacing. Some makes however can be topped up as needed with distilled water to maintain performance and extend their life.

You should check your battery every 3,000 miles, and before the onset of cold and damp weather, as these conditions can deteriorate the battery.

Batteries can be dangerous to work with and handle; always follow the battery safety tips shown below.

Battery Safety Tips

• Battery acid is highly corrosive and will severely injure eyes or any skin it comes into contact with. Always wear eye protection and gloves when working with batteries, and never tip or drain the battery.
• If any acid is splashed in the eyes, rinse immediately for several minutes with water and consult a doctor immediately. Acid splashed onto skin or clothes may be neutralised with baking soda or soap suds and rinsed with plenty of water.
• Always be careful not to cause a short circuit between connection cables, or the frame with the battery terminals, even momentary short circuits with metal tools.
• NEVER dispose of old batteries as domestic waste; both the acid and the lead are highly toxic and must be treated as hazardous waste. Dispose only at an approved battery disposal site.
• When batteries are charged, they release a highly explosive oxyhydrogen gas mixture, which may the battery to explode if it comes into contact with sparks or naked flames.
• Keep children away from batteries.

Checking the Battery

1. Lift and secure the bonnet.
2. Most batteries have a indicator to show their condition; this is usually situated in a window on the top.
3. Lift battery cover and check the indicator; in general the condition of the battery is indicated by the following colours:
   • Blue - good
   • Red - add distilled water
   • White - charging necessary
   Some batteries may use a different indication system; check the explanatory label on the battery for further information.
4. If the battery indicates that it needs more fluid (and is the type that may be filled), prise out the vent-plugs and slowly add distilled water (never tap water or filtered water) until the level reaches the top of the battery grids. Do not overfill.
5. Make sure that the battery terminals are not loose; if necessary, tighten them up with a wrench, taking care not to make contact between the two terminals.

Maintaining the Battery

If the battery terminals or clamps are corroded, they may need to be cleaned. However, before starting work, make sure that you have the codes needed to re-programme the stereo and other systems that will be affected if you disconnect the battery.

1. Using a wrench, loosen and remove the cables from the terminals. Always remove the black negative (-) connection first, followed by the red positive (+).
2. Mix together some baking soda with a little water, and pour this solution over th...

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