General Information

Sealed Battery:

A maintenance-free battery is standard on all vehicles, refer to Specifications Specifications for specific applications. There are no removable vent plugs in the cover. The battery is located on the right side of the under hood compartment. The battery is completely sealed, except for two small vent holes in the sides. These vent holes allow the small amount of gas produced in the battery to escape.

The battery has three major electrical system functions: first, it provides an energy source for cranking the engine; second, it acts as an electrical system voltage stabilizer; and third, it can, for a limited time, provide energy when the electrical load exceeds the generator output.

The battery specification label contains important battery service information. This information includes test ratings and both original equipment and recommended replacement part numbers. Refer to "Specifications".

Important
^ Disconnecting the negative battery cable from the battery is recommended when performing many repair procedures. When this is done certain memory functions are lost, such as radio and clock presets. Devices are available that eliminate the memory loss of the radio and clock by providing just enough current to keep the memory alive, but not enough to cause a shock or burn hazard if contact is made with a current carrying lead or terminal.
^ One such device, KS 295A or equivalent, is a 9 volt battery powered device that plugs into the vehicle's cigar lighter. Care should be taken when using 9 volt devices because it is still possible for the vehicle's electrical system voltage to drop enough to cause memory loss if a door is opened and the courtesy lamp switches close. To avoid this problem, remove the fuse for the courtesy lamp circuit prior to disconnecting the vehicle's negative battery cable, providing that no memory devices are powered to that circuit. Also, be sure to use a 9 volt battery in good condition.
^ Other devices, such as BT-9027 or equivalent, also plug into the vehicle's cigar lighter but are powered by a 12 volt supply. These devices have an advantage over 9 volt sources. They supply enough electrical current to sustain memory even when the doors are opened and courtesy lights are energized.
^ Either memory saving device mentioned can supply enough current to deploy the supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR) air bag which may cause personal injury or otherwise unneeded SIR system repairs. Therefore, always reference the appropriate service manual procedure for the vehicle system being serviced. If specifically directed by the service procedure for the component(s) being serviced, disable and enable the SIR system as outlined in "Disabling the SIR System" and "Enabling the SIR System" in Air bags and Seat Belts.

CAUTION: When performing service on or around SIR components or SIR wiring, temporarily disable the SIR system. Refer to appropriate service manual procedures. Failure to follow procedures could result in possible air bag deployment, personal Injury or unneeded SIR system repairs.