Battery Protection During Vehicle Storage

CAUTION: Follow all safety precautions.

Battery Caution Label:

Some electronic devices on the vehicle impose small continuous current drains on the battery; this is commonly called "parasitic load." If the vehicle is not used for an extended time, these parasitic loads can discharge and eventually cause permanent damage to the battery. Discharged batteries can also freeze in cold weather. Refer to "Electrolyte Freezing".

NOTE: Always turn off the ignition switch when connecting or disconnecting battery cables, battery chargers, or Jumper cables. Failing to do so may damage the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or other electronic components.

To help keep the battery in a charged state while storing the vehicle:
^ If the vehicle is likely to be stored for over 30 days make sure the green dot is visible, then disconnect the negative battery cable at the battery. This will protect the battery from being discharged by parasitic current drains. When it is time to reconnect the battery:
A. Use a wire brush to lightly clean any oxidation from the contact face of the battery terminal before reattaching the cable.
B. Tighten the cable bolt to 15 N.m (11 lb ft).
C. Reset the clock, push-button radio tuning, etc., before the vehicle is put back in service.
^ If the battery cannot be disconnected, establish a regular schedule of recharging the battery every 20-45 days to maintain a high state of charge. Any time a battery is found with the green dot not visible in the hydrometer, promptly recharge the battery.
^ To keep charge time low, use a battery charger that is capable of providing a charging voltage of at least 16 volts. Original equipment maintenance free batteries will not be damaged by charge rates of 50 amps or more, as long as the battery does not spew electrolyte from the vents, or get too hot - over 52°C (125°F). Every 45-60 minutes, inspect the battery being charged and stop or reduce the charge rate if necessary. To avoid overcharging, make sure to stop charging within one hour after the green dot appears in the hydrometer.
^ Allow ample charging time.
^ A battery that is allowed to remain in a discharged state for a long period of time will be difficult to recharge, and may even permanently damage the battery if it is allowed to stay discharged.