Battery: Testing and Inspection
CHECK BATTERY ELECTROLYTE LEVELa. Check the electrolyte quantity of each cell.
1. If the electrolyte is under the low level, replace the battery (or add distilled water if possible) and check the charging system.
CHECK BATTERY SPECIFIC GRAVITY (Except Maintenance Free Battery)
a. Check the specific gravity of each cell.
Standard specific gravity: 1.27 to 1.29 at 20°C (68°F)
HINT: If the specific gravity is less than the specification, charge the battery.
CHECK BATTERY VOLTAGE
a. If it has been less than 20 minutes since you drove the vehicle or since the engine was stopped, turn the ignition switch and electrical system (headlight, blower motor, rear defogger, etc) to the on position for 60 seconds. This will remove the surface charge on the battery.
b. Turn off the ignition switch and electrical systems.
c. Measure the battery voltage between the negative (-) and positive (+) terminals of the battery.
Standard voltage: 12.5 to 12.9 V at 20°C (68°F)
HINT: If the voltage is less than the specification, charge the battery.
CHECK BATTERY TERMINALS, FUSIBLE LINK AND FUSES
a. Check that the battery terminals are not loosened or corroded.
b. Check the fusible links, high current fuses and fuses for continuity.