Difference between revisions of "Automotive Lead Acid Battery Testing and Maintenance"

Revision as of 13:20, 1 September 2021

Testing Sealed aka Maintenance Free Lead Acid Automotive Battery

When charged the battery should read on the volt meter greater than 12.6 volts and less than 14.0 volts.

If the voltage appears low it is not necessarily proof of a defective battery. A vehicle with a defective alternator may fail to maintain the battery charge. Also, a battery that has not been in use for an extended period of time, or under very cold winter conditions may also read low voltage.

Determine if the battery is capable of being charged and holding a charge can be done with a rapid charger and volt meter. Perform a rapid charge with a battery charger capable of "rapid" or "boost" charging. Take a voltage reading with the voltmeter. If the voltage rate quickly climbs and exceeds 14.0 volts, reading as high as 17.0 volts, the battery cannot contain the voltage and is defective. Replace the battery.