Electrical Systems: Batteries

NOTE: Proper operation of any electrical system or component can be affected by battery condition. The battery(ies) must meet or exceed minimum specification for vehicle as equipped and test to that specific battery's CCA.

Definition of Terms

Battery Performance Testing - Testing that determines whether or not a battery meets both vehicle OEM and battery manufacturer's specifications.

Cold Cranking Amp (CCA) Rating - The number of amperes a new, fully charged battery at 0° F ( -17.8° C) can deliver for 30 seconds and maintain at least a voltage of 1.2 volts per cell (7.2 volts for a 12-volt battery).

Cranking Amps (CA) - The number of amperes a new, fully charged battery, typically at 32° F (0° C) can deliver for 30 seconds and maintain at least a voltage of 1.2 volts per cell (7.2 volts for a 12volt battery).

OEM Cranking Amps - The minimum CCA required by the original vehicle manufacturer for a specific vehicle.

Condition	Code	Procedure
Battery frozen	Further inspection required
NOTE: Do not attempt to charge a frozen battery. Allow battery to warm thoroughly and then performance-test. If battery fails performance test, require replacement.
Battery tests near the ""end of its useful life"" utilizing a tester or on-board monitor able to accurately determine this condition	1	Suggest Replacement
Case leaking	A	Require replacement
Casing swollen	A	Further inspection required
NOTE: No service suggested or required unless the battery fails performance test, in which case, require replacement.
Circuit open internally	A	Require replacement
Electrolyte contamination	A	Further inspection required
NOTE: No service suggested or required unless the battery fails performance test, in which case, require replacement.
Electrolyte discoloration	A	Further inspection required
NOTE: No service suggested or required unless the battery fails performance test, in which case, require replacement.
Fails to accept and hold charge	A	Require replacement
NOTE: This phrase refers to a battery that fails to either accept and/or retain a charge using appropriate times listed in the Battery Charging Guide of the BCI Service Manual, battery charger operating manual, or battery manufacturer's specifications.
Fluid level low	B	Further inspection required
NOTE: Determine cause of low fluid level. Refill to proper level(s) with water (distilled water preferred). Recharge battery and performance-test. If battery does not meet specifications, require replacement. If battery is sealed type (non-removable filler caps), require replacement.
Out of performance specification for battery	B	Require replacement
NOTE: The battery may meet vehicle's OEM specifications for that vehicle but test below the minimum specifications defined by the battery manufacturer.
Out of specification for application	B	Require replacement
NOTE: The battery may meet battery manufacturer's specifications but test below the minimum specification defined by the vehicle's OEM for that vehicle.
Post (top or side) burned, affecting performance	A	Require repair or replacement
NOTE: Determine cause and correct prior to repair or replacement of part.
Post (top or side) burned, not affecting performance	2	Suggest repair or replacement
NOTE: Determine cause and correct prior to repair or replacement of part.
Post (top or side) corroded, affecting performance	A	Require repair
Post (top or side) corroded, not affecting performance	2	Suggest repair
Post (top or side) loose	A	Require replacement
Post (top or side) melted, affecting performance	A	Require repair or replacement
NOTE: Determine cause and correct prior to repair or replacement of part.
Post (top or side) melted, not affecting performance	2	Suggest repair or replacement
NOTE: Determine cause and correct prior to repair or replacement of part.
Specific gravity low	B	Further inspection required
NOTE: Recharge and test to manufacturer's specifications. If battery fails performance test, require replacement.
State of charge low	A	Further inspection required
NOTE: Recharge and test to manufacturer's specifications. If battery fails performance test, require replacement.
Top dirty	2	Suggest cleaning battery
Top wet	A	Require cleaning battery Further inspection required
NOTE: Check fluid level and adjust to manufacturer's specification. Suggest checking charging system for proper operation.
Vent cap loose	A	Require repair or replacement of vent cap
Vent cap missing	C	Require replacement of vent cap