Battery System

The battery, starting, and charging systems in the vehicle operate with one another and must be tested as a complete system. In order for the engine to start and the battery to maintain its charge properly all of the components that are used in these systems must perform within specifications. It is important that the battery, starting, and charging systems be thoroughly tested and inspected any time a battery needs to be charged or replaced. The cause of abnormal battery discharge, overcharging or early battery failure must be diagnosed and corrected before a battery is replaced and before a vehicle is returned to service. However, when attempting to diagnose any of these systems, it is important that you keep their interdependency in mind.

The diagnostic procedures used for the battery starting, and charging systems include the most basic conventional diagnostic methods, to the more sophisticated On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) built into the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Use of an induction-type milliampere ammeter, a volt/ohmmeter, a battery charger, a carbon pile rheostat (load tester) and a 12-volt test lamp may be required. All OBD-sensed systems are monitored by the PCM. Each monitored circuit is assigned a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). The PCM will store a DTC in electronic memory for any inoperative system it detects.

Battery System Diagnosis Chart Part 1 Of 2:

Battery System Diagnosis Chart Part 2 Of 2:

MICRO 420 BATTERY TESTER
The Micro 420 automotive battery system tester is designed to help diagnose the cause of a defective battery.

INSPECTION
The following information details the recommended inspection procedures for the battery and related components. In addition to the maintenance schedules, it is recommended that these procedures be performed any time the battery or related components must be removed for vehicle service.

1. Inspect the battery cable terminal clamps for damage. Replace any battery cable that has a damaged or deformed terminal clamp.
2. Inspect the battery tray and battery holddown hardware for damage. Replace any damaged parts.
3. Slide the thermal guard off of the battery case (if equipped). Inspect the battery case for cracks or other damage that could result in electrolyte leaks. Also, check the battery terminal posts for looseness. Batteries with damaged cases or loose terminal posts must be replaced.
4. Inspect the battery thermal guard (if equipped) for tears, cracks,deformation or other damage. Replace any battery thermal guard that has been damaged.
5. Inspect the battery built-in test indicator sight glass (if equipped) for an indication of the battery condition. If the battery is discharged, charge as required.