Car Battery Frequently Asked Questions

CAR BATTERY FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 4.2

Last Updated on March 12, 2003
Written and compiled By Bill Darden (freely reproducible public domain)

Re-produced here by www.optimabattery.co.uk for your information, and it will be updated regularly.

Words of caution: Lead-acid batteries contain a sulfuric acid electrolyte, which is a highly corrosive poison and will produce gas when recharged and explode if ignited. This will hurt you--BAD! When working with batteries, you need to have plenty of ventilation, remove your jewelry, wear protective eyewear (safety glasses) and clothing, and exercise caution. Do not allow battery electrolyte to mix with salt water. Even small quantities of this combination will produce chlorine gas that can KILL you! Whenever possible, please follow the manufacturer's instructions for testing, jumping, installing, charging and equalizing batteries.

JCI Warning Label

This FAQ assumes 12-volt, six cell, negative grounded, lead-acid SLI batteries used to start gasoline or diesel engines found in most cars, light trucks and vans. The information contained within the FAQ would also apply to starting batteries found in trunks, motorcycles, boats, snowmobiles, jet skis, farm tractors, lawn and garden tractors, SUVs, etc. Aircraft, busses and larger vehicles use higher volt systems. Some aircraft use special purpose AGM and Ni-Cad batteries for starting because of the extreme cold. For 6-volt batteries, divide the voltage by two; for 8-volt batteries, divide by 1.5; for 24-volt batteries, double the voltage; and for 36-volt batteries, triple the voltage.

The technical stuff is in italics.

1. WHAT IS THE BOTTOM LINE?

2. WHY BOTHER?

3. HOW DO I PERFORM PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE?

4. HOW DO I TEST A BATTERY?

5. HOW DO I KNOW IF THE CHARGING SYSTEM IS OK OR LARGE ENOUGH?

6. HOW DO I JUMP START MY VEHICLE?

7. WHAT DO I LOOK FOR IN BUYING A NEW BATTERY?

8. HOW DO I INSTALL A NEW BATTERY?

9. HOW DO I RECHARGE (OR EQUALIZE) MY BATTERY?

10. WHAT CAUSES MY BATTERY TO DRAIN OVERNIGHT?

11. HOW CAN I INCREASE THE LIFE OF MY BATTERY?