Battery: Service and Repair

Battery, Removing and Installing


WARNING!
Always disconnect battery Ground (GND) strap before working on the electrical system


NOTE:
- Before disconnecting battery, determine radio anti-theft code.
- When the battery is reconnected, remember to check and activate the vehicle accessories (radio, clock, electronic conveniences, etc.) according to the repair manual and/or the operator's manual.


Removing
The battery is in the right rear area of the trunk, beneath the side floor covering.
- Remove the side storage compartment separator and the floor covering, which is attached with Velcro.
- Remove the ground cable from the floor covering by loosening the hex nut (SW 10)







- Disconnect the battery ground strap from the negative battery terminal -1-. To do this, loosen the hex nut (SW 10).
- Disconnect the positive battery cable from the positive battery terminal -2-. To do this, loosen the hex nut (SW 10).
- Separate the hose connection -4- from the battery.
- Remove the hex screw (SW 13) -3- and then remove the fastening clip.
- Lift the battery with both handle straps (arrow) out of the trunk.

Installing
- Perform the steps described for installation in reverse order.







- Tighten the hex screw (SW 13) -3- on the fastening frame to 20 Nm.


NOTE: The latest generation of batteries has a central venting system and a flashback protector in the form of a so-called "frit." Function: The gas produced during charging exits the battery through a central opening on the top part of the side covering. A flashback protector is also integrated at the same place to prevent the combustible gas in the battery from igniting. The frit consists of a small round fiberglass mat about 15 mm in diameter and 2 mm thick. It works similarly to a valve, that is it allows gas produced in the battery to flow out.


There are two types of batteries with a central venting system:
- Batteries with a hose or nozzle attached to the central venting system
- Batteries without a hose or nozzle attached to the central venting system







During installation make sure, with batteries with a hose attached to the central venting system (arrow) that the hose is not pinched off during installation. The battery can only freely vent through the frit and hose if the hose is not pinched off Even if the battery does not have a hose, be careful not to obstruct the opening on the top part of the battery side covering.

- Perform the steps described for installation in reverse order.

Check that the battery is securely seated
If the battery is not securely seated, the following dangers exist:
- Its service life can be reduced due to damage caused by shaking.
- If the battery is not secured properly normal shock and vibration can damage the battery plates, which results in premature battery failure.
- The battery casing can be damaged by the fastening clip (this could allow acid to escape from the battery, which would have high consequential costs).
- Insufficient crash safety