Battery Cleaning and Inspection

The following information details the recommended cleaning and inspection procedures for the battery and related components. In addition to the maintenance schedules found in this service and the owner's manual, it is recommended that these procedures be performed any time the battery or related components must be removed for vehicle service.

Cleaning

Clean Battery Cable Terminal Clamp - Typical:

1. Clean the battery cable terminal clamps of all corrosion. Remove any corrosion using a wire brush or a post and terminal cleaning tool, and a sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and warm water cleaning solution.
2. Clean the battery tray and battery hold down hardware of all corrosion. Remove any corrosion using a wire brush and a sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and warm water cleaning solution. Paint any exposed bare metal.

Clean Battery - Typical:

3. If the removed battery is to be reinstalled, clean the outside of the battery case and the top cover with a sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and warm water cleaning solution using a stiff bristle parts cleaning brush to remove any acid film. Rinse the battery with clean water. Ensure that the cleaning solution does not enter the battery cells through the vent holes. If the battery is being replaced, refer to Battery specifications. Confirm that the replacement battery is the correct size and has the correct ratings for the vehicle.

Clean Battery Terminal Post - Typical:

4. Clean any corrosion from the battery terminal posts with a wire brush or a post and terminal cleaner, and a sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and warm water cleaning solution.

Inspection
1. Inspect the battery cable terminal clamps for damage. Replace any battery cable that has a damaged or deformed terminal clamp.
2. Inspect the battery tray and battery hold down hardware for damage. Replace any damaged parts.
3. Inspect the battery case for cracks or other damage that could result in electrolyte leaks. Also, check the battery terminal posts for looseness. Batteries with damaged cases or loose terminal posts must be replaced.
4. Inspect the battery built-in test indicator sight glass for an indication of the battery condition. If the battery is discharged, charge as required. Refer to Battery diagnosis and testing procedures for more information on the use of the battery built-in test indicator. Also refer to Battery Charging procedures.