Battery: Description and Operation

The maintenance-free battery, which is standard on all vehicles, is completely sealed except for two small holes that allow produced gas to escape. There are no removable vent plugs in the cover.

The battery has two ratings: (1) a reserve capacity rating and (2) a cold cranking ampere rating. Reserve capacity is the time required, in minutes, for a fully charged battery at a temperature of 27°C (80°F), discharging at a constant current of 25 amperes, to reach a terminal voltage of 10.5 volts. This is an estimate of the maximum length of time a vehicle could travel with minimum electrical load and no generator output. Cold Cranking Amperes (CCA) is the minimum battery amperage that must be maintained for 30 seconds while meeting a minimum voltage requirement of 7.2 volts at -18°C (0°F).

The maintenance-free battery also has a built-in hydrometer that helps to determine the battery's condition. Use the following three conditions to help diagnose battery problems:
1. Green dot - Indicates that the battery is ready for testing.
2. Dark (green dot not visible) - Indicates that the battery is not sufficiently charged for testing. Charge the battery and proceed to the diagnosis.
3. Light yellow or clear indicator - Indicates that the fluid level is below the hydrometer due to leaking or overcharging. Do not test or charge the battery in this condition. Replace the battery and check the charging system.

Before performing the tests, visually inspect the battery for obvious damage, such as a cracked or broken case or severely damaged terminals.