Flow of Diagnosis

WARNING
^ KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. BATTERIES CONTAIN SULFURIC ACID. AVOID CONTACT WITH SKIN, EYES, OR CLOTHING. ALSO, SHIELD YOUR EYES WHEN WORKING NEAR BATTERY TO PROTECT AGAINST POSSIBLE SPLASHING OF THE ACID SOLUTION. IN CASE OF ACID CONTACT WITH SKIN OR EYES, FLUSH IMMEDIATELY WITH WATER FOR A MINIMUM OF 15 MINUTES AND GET PROMPT MEDICAL ATTENTION. IF ACID IS SWALLOWED, CALL A PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY.
^ BATTERIES NORMALLY PRODUCE EXPLOSIVE GASES WHICH CAN CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY. THEREFORE, DO NOT ALLOW FLAMES, SPARKS, OR LIGHTED SUBSTANCES TO COME NEAR THE BATTERY. WHEN CHARGING OR WORKING NEAR A BATTERY, ALWAYS SHIELD YOUR FACE AND PROTECT YOUR EYES. ALWAYS PROVIDE VENTILATION.
^ WHEN LIFTING A PLASTIC-CASED BATTERY, EXCESSIVE PRESSURE ON THE END WALLS COULD CAUSE ACID TO SPEW THROUGH THE VENT CAPS, RESULTING IN PERSONAL INJURY AND DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE OR BATTERY. LIFT WITH A BATTERY CARRIER OR WITH YOUR HANDS ON OPPOSITE CORNERS.

1. Verify the customer concern by operating the vehicle to duplicate the condition.
2. Inspect to determine if one of the mechanical or electrical concerns apply:

Mechanical
Before attempting to test a battery, it is important to give it a thorough examination to determine if it has been damaged.

Preliminary checks to the charging system should be made regardless of the fault condition. These checks include:
^ Check fuses/fuse links to the generator to make sure that they are not burned or damaged. This condition, resulting in an open circuit or high resistance, can cause erratic or intermittent charging system concerns.
^ Check battery posts and cable terminals for clean and tight connections. Clean the posts and cables to verify good electrical contact.
^ Check for secure connections at generator output, voltage regulator, and engine ground. Also check connection at the power distribution box and harness.
^ Check generator drive belt to verity proper tension and no slip between the generator pulley and drive belt.
^ Check battery for full charge.

Electrical
Batteries are tested to determine the state of charge and ability to crank an engine. The result of these tests is to show that the battery is either good, needs recharging, or must be replaced.

Before performing charging system tests on vehicle, note conditions such as: slow cranking, discharged battery, charge system warning lamp stays on with engine running, charge system warning lamp does not illuminate with ignition switch in RUN, engine not running, etc. This information will aid in isolating the part of the system causing the symptom.
^ When a relatively new battery is discharged, test for current drain. Drain Testing

These are some of the most common current drain concerns:
- Glove compartment lamp stays on with door closed
- Engine compartment lamp stays on constantly
- License plate lamp or interior lamp stays on constantly
- Other electronic component concerns

3. If the inspection reveals obvious concern(s) that can be readily identified, service as required.
4. If the concerns remain after the inspection, determine the symptoms and go to symptom chart. Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures