Battery Protection During Vehicle Storage

Certain devices on the vehicle maintain a small continuous current drain 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 .

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

Important:  If a green dot is not visible in the hydrometer, charge the battery. Refer to Battery Charging .

1. Ensure that the green dot is visible in the built-in hydrometer.
   WARNING: Before servicing any electrical component, the ignition key must be in the OFF or LOCK position and all electrical loads must be OFF, unless instructed otherwise in these procedures. If a tool or equipment could easily come in contact with a live exposed electrical terminal, also disconnect the negative battery cable. Failure to follow these precautions may cause personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.
2. Disconnect the battery ground to protect the battery from discharge by parasitic current drains.

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.