3.  HOW DO I PERFORM PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE?

Performing preventive maintenance on car batteries is easy and should occur the lessor of once a month when the climate is hot or every time the oil is changed. Here are six simple steps:

3.1. If the electrolyte levels are low in a non-sealed battery, allow the battery to cool to room temperature, and add only distilled water to the level indicated by the battery manufacturer. If there is no recommendation, add to within 1/4 to 3/8 inch (6 to 10 mm) below the bottom of the filler tubes (vent wells or splash barrels).  The plates need to be covered at all times.  Avoid over filling, especially in hot climates, because heat causes the electrolyte to expand and overflow. In an emergency, use rain water rather than reverse osmosis or tap water because rain water does not contain calcium or magnesium.

3.2. Tighten loose hold-down clamps and battery terminals.

3.3. Check and remove any corrosion or oxidation from both ends of each battery cable terminals and both battery posts or terminals. Red and green felt battery terminal washers or coating the terminals with silicon gasket material or high temperature grease will help prevent corrosion.

3.4. Clean the battery top and alternator.

3.5. Check the alternator belt for cracks and retension, if slipping.

3.6. Check the battery cables for corrosion or swelling and replace if necessary with equal or larger diameter wire size.

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