Battery Protection During Vehicle Storage

Certain devices on the vehicle maintain a small continuous current drain (parasitic load) on the battery. A battery that is not used for an extended period of time will discharge. Eventually permanent damage will result. Discharged batteries will also freeze in cold weather. Refer to Battery Inspection/Test. Battery Inspection/Test

In order to maintain the battery state of charge while storing the vehicle for more than 30 days:

CAUTION: Refer to Battery Disconnect Caution in Service Precautions.

Disconnect the battery ground cable to protect the battery from discharge by parasitic current drains.

When it is time to reconnect the battery, use the following procedure:
1. Lightly wire brush any oxidation from the contact faces of both the battery terminal and the battery cable connector before reattaching the cable.
2. Connect the negative battery cable to the battery. Tighten the negative battery cable bolt to 15 N.m (11 lb ft).
3. Program the transmitters. Refer to Transmitter Programming/Synchronization in Keyless Entry.
4. Reset the clock and radio tuning before the vehicle is put back into service.

When the battery cannot be disconnected:
1. Maintain a high state of charge.
2. Establish a regular schedule for recharging the battery every 20 - 45 days.

A battery that has remained in a discharged state for a long period of time is difficult to recharge or may be permanently damaged.