Mazda 2008 Mazda5, Owner'S Manual

Page: 293 / 376

Black plate (293,1)
NOTE
Remove the battery cover before performing
battery maintenance.
q
Battery Maintenance
To get the best service from a battery:
l
Keep it securely mounted.
l
Keep the top clean and dry.
l
Keep terminals and connections clean,
tight, and coated with petroleum jelly
or terminal grease.
l
Rinse off spilled electrolyte
immediately with a solution of water
and baking soda.
l
If the vehicle will not be used for an
extended time, disconnect the battery
cables and charge the battery every six
weeks.
q
Inspecting Electrolyte Level
A low level of electrolyte fluid will cause
the battery to discharge quickly.
Upper level
Lower level
Inspect the electrolyte level at least once a
week. If it's low, remove the caps and add
enough distilled water to bring the level
between the upper and lower level
(illustration).
Don't overfill.
Examine the specific gravity of the
electrolyte with a hydrometer, especially
during cold weather. If it's low, recharge
the battery.
Maintenance and Care
Owner Maintenance
8-31
Mazda5_8X53-EA-07I_Edition1 Page293
Monday, September 3 2007 10:42 AM
Form No.8X53-EA-07I