Battery Protection During Vehicle Storage

Some electronic devices on the vehicle impose small continuous current drains on the battery. This is commonly called parasitic load. If the vehicle is not used for an extended time, these parasitic loads can discharge and eventually cause permanent damage to the battery. Discharged batteries can also freeze in cold weather.

To help keep the battery in a charged state while storing the vehicle, follow the following steps:
1. If the vehicle is likely to be stored for over 30 days, make sure the green dot is visible, then disconnect the negative battery cable at the battery. Refer to Battery Cable Replacement (Battery Disconnect/Connect). Service and Repair
1.1. Use a wire brush to lightly clean any oxidation from the contact face of the battery terminal before reattaching the cable.

NOTICE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.

Tighten
Tighten the battery cable bolt to 17 N.m (13 lb ft).

1.2. Reset the clock, push button radio tuning, etc., before the vehicle is put back into service.
2. If the battery cannot be disconnected, establish a regular schedule of recharging the battery 30-45 days to maintain a high state of charge. Any time a battery is found with the green dot not visible in the hydrometer, promptly recharge the battery.
3. To keep charge time low, use a battery charger that is capable of providing a charging voltage of at least 16 volts. Original equipment maintenance free batteries will not be damaged by charge rates of 50 amps or more, as long as the battery does not spill electrolyte from the vents, or get too hot over 52°C (125°F). Every 45-60 minutes, check the battery being charged and stop or reduce the charging rate if necessary. To avoid overcharging, stop charging within one hour after the green dot appears in the hydrometer.
4. Allow ample charging time. A battery that is allowed to remain in a discharged state for a long period of time will be difficult to recharge, and may even become permanently damaged if allowed to stay discharged. Refer to Battery Charging. Service and Repair