09 Maintenance and specifications
Battery
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WARNING
•
Never expose the battery to open
flame or electric spark.
•
Do not smoke near the battery.
•
Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid. Do
not allow battery fluid to contact eyes,
skin, fabrics or painted surfaces. If
contact occurs, flush the affected area
immediately with water. Obtain medi-
cal help immediately if eyes are affec-
ted.
NOTE
The life of the battery is shortened if it
becomes discharged repeatedly.
Maintenance
•
Use a screw driver to open the caps or
cover and a flashlight to inspect the level.
•
If necessary, add distilled water. The level
should never be above the indicator.
•
The fluid level should be checked if the
battery has been recharged.
•
After inspection, be sure the cap over
each battery cell or the cover is securely
in place.
•
Check that the battery cables are cor-
rectly connected and properly tightened.
•
Never disconnect the battery when the
engine is running, or when the key is in
the ignition. This could damage the vehi-
cle's electrical system.
•
The battery should be disconnected from
the vehicle when a battery charger is
used directly on the battery.
•
To help keep the battery in good condi-
tion, the vehicle should be driven for at
least 15 minutes a week or connected to
a charger with an automatic charging
function.
•
If the battery is fully discharged a number
of times, this may shorten its service life.
Keeping the battery fully charged helps
prolong its service life.
•
The service life of a battery is affected by
factors such as driving conditions and cli-
mate. Extreme cold may also further
decrease the battery’s starting capacity.
•
Because the battery’s starting capacity
decreases with time, it may be necessary
to recharge it if the vehicle is not driven
for an extended period of time or if the
vehicle is usually only driven short dis-
tances.
CAUTION
•
Always use distilled or deionized water
(battery water).
•
Never fill above the level mark in the
cell.
Changing