Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Battery System: Battery: Description
From the factory, most vehicles are equipped with a maintenance-free battery, and others with a low-maintenance battery.
Maintenance-free batteries have non-removable battery vent caps (Fig. Fig 1). Water cannot be added to this battery. Under normal service the composition of this battery reduces gassing and water loss at normal charge rates. If the battery electrolyte level becomes low, this battery must be replaced.
Low-maintenance batteries have removable battery cell caps. Water can be added to this battery. Under normal service the composition of this battery reduces gassing and water loss at normal charge rates.
The battery is a device used to store electrical energy potential in a chemical form. When an electrical load is applied to the battery terminals, an electrochemical reaction occurs within the battery. This reaction causes the battery to discharge electrical current.
The battery is made up of six individual cells that are connected in series. Each cell contains positive charged plate groups made of lead oxide, and negatively charged plate groups made of sponge lead. The dissimilar metal plates are submerged in a sulfuric acid and water solution called an electrolyte.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.