Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Engine Performance And Maintenance: Batteries
Definition of Terms
Battery Performance Testing - Testing that determines whether or not a battery meets both vehicle OEM and battery manufacturer's specifications.
Cold Cranking Amp (CCA) Rating - The number of amperes a new, fully charged battery at 0° F ( -17.8° C) can deliver for 30 seconds and maintain at least a voltage of 1.2 volts per cell (7.2 volts for a 12-volt battery).
Cranking Amps (CA) - The number of amperes a new, fully charged battery, typically at 32° F (0° C) can deliver for 30 seconds and maintain at least a voltage of 1.2 volts per cell (7.2 volts for a 12volt battery).
OEM Cranking Amps - The minimum CCA required by the original vehicle manufacturer for a specific vehicle.
| Condition | Code | Procedure |
|---|---|---|
| Battery frozen | Further inspection required | |
|
NOTE:
Do not attempt to charge a frozen battery. Allow battery to warm thoroughly and then performance-test. If battery fails performance test, require replacement.
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| Battery tests near the ""end of its useful life"" utilizing a tester or on-board monitor able to accurately determine this condition | 1 | Suggest Replacement |
| Case leaking | A | Require replacement |
| Casing swollen | A | Further inspection required |
|
NOTE:
No service suggested or required unless the battery fails performance test, in which case, require replacement.
|
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| Circuit open internally | A | Require replacement |
| Electrolyte contamination | A | Further inspection required |
|
NOTE:
No service suggested or required unless the battery fails performance test, in which case, require replacement.
|
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| Electrolyte discoloration | A | Further inspection required |
|
NOTE:
No service suggested or required unless the battery fails performance test, in which case, require replacement.
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| Fails to accept and hold charge | A | Require replacement |
|
NOTE:
This phrase refers to a battery that fails to either accept and/or retain a charge using appropriate times listed in the Battery Charging Guide of the BCI Service Manual, battery charger operating manual, or battery manufacturer's specifications.
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| Fluid level low | B | Further inspection required |
|
NOTE:
Determine cause of low fluid level. Refill to proper level(s) with water (distilled water preferred). Recharge battery and performance-test. If battery does not meet specifications, require replacement. If battery is sealed type (non-removable filler caps), require replacement.
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| Out of performance specification for battery | B | Require replacement |
|
NOTE:
The battery may meet vehicle's OEM specifications for that vehicle but test below the minimum specifications defined by the battery manufacturer.
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| Out of specification for application | B | Require replacement |
|
NOTE:
The battery may meet battery manufacturer's specifications but test below the minimum specification defined by the vehicle's OEM for that vehicle.
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| Post (top or side) burned, affecting performance | A | Require repair or replacement |
|
NOTE:
Determine cause and correct prior to repair or replacement of part.
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| Post (top or side) burned, not affecting performance | 2 | Suggest repair or replacement |
|
NOTE:
Determine cause and correct prior to repair or replacement of part.
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| Post (top or side) corroded, affecting performance | A | Require repair |
| Post (top or side) corroded, not affecting performance | 2 | Suggest repair |
| Post (top or side) loose | A | Require replacement |
| Post (top or side) melted, affecting performance | A | Require repair or replacement |
|
NOTE:
Determine cause and correct prior to repair or replacement of part.
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| Post (top or side) melted, not affecting performance | 2 | Suggest repair or replacement |
|
NOTE:
Determine cause and correct prior to repair or replacement of part.
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| Specific gravity low | B | Further inspection required |
|
NOTE:
Recharge and test to manufacturer's specifications. If battery fails performance test, require replacement.
|
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| State of charge low | A | Further inspection required |
|
NOTE:
Recharge and test to manufacturer's specifications. If battery fails performance test, require replacement.
|
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| Top dirty | 2 | Suggest cleaning battery |
| Top wet | A | Require cleaning battery Further inspection required |
|
NOTE:
Check fluid level and adjust to manufacturer's specification. Suggest checking charging system for proper operation.
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| Vent cap loose | A | Require repair or replacement of vent cap |
| Vent cap missing | C | Require replacement of vent cap |
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.