General

Battery Label:

Battery Caution Label:

Built-In Hydrometer:

Battery Terminal Adapters:

When it is necessary to charge the battery, the following basic rules must be followed:
1. Use a charger with an end of charge voltage of 16.0 volts and equipped with a voltmeter that is accurate within 1 percent.
2. Ambient (surrounding) temperature should be 15°C to 38°C (60°F to 100°F). A battery that is extremely cold may not accept measurable current for several hours after starting the charger.
3. Charging area should be well ventilated.
4. Do not charge the battery if the built-in hydrometer is clear or light yellow. If cranking problems exist, replace the battery.
5. Do not charge a battery if it seems to be frozen. Replace it.
6. Batteries with a green dot showing in the hydrometer do not require charging unless they have just been discharged (such as cranking the vehicle).

Charging Procedure

CAUTION: Always turn off the ignition switch when connecting or disconnecting battery cables, battery chargers, or jumper cables. Failure to do so may result in personal injury and damage to the powertrain control module or other electronic components.

When charging the battery in the vehicle, proceed to Step 1. If charging side terminal batteries out of the vehicle, install an adapter kit GM P/N 12303040 or equivalent.

The adapters should be tightened against the lead terminals of the battery to keep resistance between the adapter and the battery terminals to a minimum.

1. Make sure a charger connections are clean and tight.
2. Charge the battery using the charger setting for 12-volt batteries that gives the highest charge rate to the battery until the green dot appears. (Do not use charger settings for jump-starting vehicles to charge the battery. Refer to the charger manufacturer's instructions). The battery should be checked periodically while charging. Tap the hydrometer lightly on the top to dislodge any air bubbles that may prevent a correct indication.
3. If the battery feels hot 52°C (125°F), or if violent gassing or spewing of electrolyte through the vent holes occurs, discontinue charging or reduce the charging rate.
4. After charging, the battery should be tested as outlined in "Diagnosis of the Battery". Testing and Inspection