Visual Inspection

Check for obvious damage, such as a cracked or broken case or a cover that is permitting electrolyte loss. When obvious damage is noted, determine and correct the cause of damage, and then replace the battery. When battery terminals are severely damaged (i.e., loose, burned, or broken), battery replacement is recommended.

When small amounts of electrolyte leakage, especially around the vent holes is noticed, it does not necessarily indicate the battery is defective. The leakage could have been caused by overcharging or tipping the battery. When a small amount of the electrolyte leakage is detected, the battery should be fully charged OUT OF THE VEHICLE so that any electrolyte that may escape does not damage the bumper filler panels or any other components.