BATTERY
Your vehicle may be equipped with a
Superstart maintenance-free battery.
If the original equipment battery
needs replacing, it may be replaced
with a low-maintenance battery. The
low-maintenance battery normally
does not require additional water
during its life of service. However,
for severe usage or in high
temperature climates, check your
battery electrolyte level, at least
every 24 months or 40,000 km
(24,000 miles). Keep the electrolyte
in each cell up to the “level” indicator. Do not overfill the battery cells.
If the electrolyte level in the battery is low, you can add plain tap water
to the battery, as long as you do not use hard water (water with a high
alkali content). If possible, however, try to only fill the battery cells with
distilled water. If the battery needs water often, have the charging
system checked.
For longer, trouble-free operation, keep the top of the battery clean and
dry. Also, make certain the battery cables are always tightly fastened to
the battery terminals.
If you see any corrosion on the battery or terminals, remove the cables
from the terminal(s) and clean with a wire brush. You can neutralize the
acid with a solution of baking soda and water. Reinstall the cables when
you are done cleaning them, and apply a small quantity of grease to the
top of each battery terminal to help prevent corrosion.
If your battery has a cover/shield, make sure it is reinstalled
after the battery is replaced.
Because your vehicle’s engine is electronically controlled by a computer,
some control conditions are maintained by power from the battery. When
the battery is disconnected or a new battery is installed, the engine must
relearn its idle conditions before your vehicle will drive properly. To
begin this process:
1. Put the gearshift in P (Park), turn off all accessories and start the
vehicle.
2. Let the engine idle for at least one minute.
Maintenance and care
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