If one reading is lower than the others, this could indicate a faulty cell. If necessary, get an auto-electrician to check
your battery. One faulty cell is enough to ruin your battery. It is pointless to continue using it and you would be better
getting a new one.
Care
Sometimes the battery may appear flat, but this could simply be dirty or loose connections on your battery terminals.
It is important to maintain the battery terminals on a regular basis. Do this by removing the battery clamps from the
terminal posts, clean the terminal posts as well as the inside of the battery clamps, smear them with vaseline, refit in
their correct places and tighten firmly.
It is essential to keep the electrolyte level above the plates. Note, however, that you should not overfill it, as the
electrolyte is strongly acidic. When topping up, do not use tap water. Always use distilled or de-ionized water. It is
important to keep the acid level up. If necessary have it checked by your garage.
Checking the condition of your battery
Using a hydrometer, which can be purchased from most motor accessory stores, you can check the specific gravity
of the electrolyte in each cell. The hydrometer is used to suck up a small quantity of fluid from the cell. The weighted
float inside the hydrometer will register the condition of that cell. Put the fluid back into the cell after testing, taking
care not to splash the fluid about.