The storage battery is one of the most important components of the car, in order to increase the durability and trouble-free operation of which it is necessary to carry out its periodic maintenance. This has to be done at least twice a year - at the end of the summer and winter seasons of operation. You can make sure that there is a sufficient amount of electrolyte in the battery yourself, without the help of specialists.
Necessary
Wrenches, thin flat screwdriver, large flat screwdriver, large shaped screwdriver, rubber gloves, goggles, clean rags
Instructions
Step 1
When working with a battery, certain precautions must be taken, since the battery contains components and fillers that are harmful to health - lead and sulfuric acid-based electrolyte. Acid fumes are explosive, and can also cause poisoning and chemical burns. Therefore, the first step is to take some protective measures - wear rubber gloves and safety glasses.
Step 2
Open the hood of the car if your model has a battery in the engine compartment. Unscrew and remove the upper battery fasteners. Make sure all power consuming devices are turned off and loosen and then disconnect the negative terminal. Use a cloth to thoroughly wipe the top of the battery free of dust, dirt and smudges. It is advisable to use a damp cloth only when it is heavily soiled.
Step 3
Use a thin flat screwdriver to pry the boot protecting the battery compartment covers from dirt, and, without applying great force, remove it from the plastic latches.
Step 4
After removing the boot, wipe the battery "jar" covers with a rag and unscrew them with a large curly screwdriver or with your hands - depending on the battery model. Place the covers upside down to avoid contaminating the inside of the battery when replacing them. If this is not done, contamination can lead to the closure of the plates and the rapid destruction of this important and expensive car part.
Step 5
If you find a maintenance-free battery under the hood, do not try to disassemble it yourself, it will be correct to contact a battery specialist. The only operation available to a non-specialist with this type of batteries is to independently replace it with a similar or similar one in terms of electrical characteristics, dimensions and location of terminals.
Step 6
After finishing work, dispose of used rags and rubber gloves, and rinse protective goggles with plenty of water.
