Battery Protection During Vehicle Storage

Certain devices on the vehicle maintain a small continuous current drain (parasitic load) on the battery. A battery that is not used for an extended period of time will discharge. Eventually permanent damage will result. Discharged batteries will also freeze in cold weather. Refer to Battery Inspection/Test Battery Inspection/Test

In order to maintain a battery state of charge while storing the vehicle for more than 30 days:

IMPORTANT: If a green dot is not visible in the hydrometer, charge the battery. Refer to Battery Charging. Battery Charging Procedure

1. Ensure that the green dot is visible in the built-in hydrometer.

CAUTION: Refer to Battery Disconnect Caution in Service Precautions.

2. Disconnect the battery (negative) ground to protect the battery from discharge by parasitic current drains.

When the battery cannot be disconnected:
1. Maintain a high state of charge.
2. Establish a regular schedule for recharging the battery every 20-45 days.

A battery that has remained in a discharged state for a long period of time is difficult to recharge or may be permanently damaged.