Battery

The condition of the battery is very important for quick starting and to keep the vehicle’s electrical system working properly. Regular inspection and care are especially important in cold weather.

NOTE

• After replacing the battery, the electronic control system data for the automatic transmission, etc., will be erased. As a result, shift shocks may occur.

Shift shocks will become smoother after several changes in speed.

Checking battery electrolyte level

The electrolyte level must be between the specified limit on the outside of the battery. Replenish with distilled water as necessary.

The inside of the battery is divided into several compartments;

remove the cap from each compartment and fill to the upper mark. Do not top up beyond the upper mark because spillage during driving could cause damage.

Check the electrolyte level at least once every 4 weeks, depending on the operating conditions.

If the battery is not used, it will discharge by itself with time.

Check it once every 4 weeks and charge with low current as necessary.

Removing and installing the upper cover and duct

To replenish with the distilled water, remove the upper cover and duct.

WARNING

• Turn the ignition switch to the “LOCK” position or put the operation mode in OFF.

Make sure that your clothes cannot be caught by the fan or drive belt. Personal injury could result.

To remove

1. Remove the clips (A), and then remove the upper cover (B).

2. Remove the clips (C), and then remove the air duct (D).

To install

1. Install the air duct (A), and then tighten the clips (B).

2. Turn the upper cover over. Squeeze the head of the moulding clip (C) with pliers and remove the moulding.

3. Install the upper cover, and then attach the moulding (D).

NOTE

• Attach the moulding with the wide part towards the front of the vehicle.

4. Install the clips (E).

During cold weather

The capacity of the battery is reduced at low temperatures.

This is an inevitable result of its chemical and physical properties.

This is why a very cold battery, particularly one that is not fully charged, will only deliver a fraction of the starter current which is normally available.

We recommend you to have the battery checked before the start of cold weather and, if necessary, have it charged or replaced.

This does not only ensure reliable starting, but a battery which is kept fully charged also has a longer life.

Disconnection and connection

To disconnect the battery cable, stop the engine, first disconnect the negative (-) terminal and then the positive (+) terminal.

When connecting the battery, first connect the positive (+) terminal and then the negative (-) terminal.

NOTE

• Open the terminal cover (A) before disconnecting or connecting the positive (+) terminal of the battery.

• Loosen the nut (B), and then disconnect the battery cable from the positive (+) terminal.

WARNING

• Keep sparks, cigarettes, and flames away from the battery because the battery could explode.

• The battery electrolyte is extremely caustic.

Do not allow it to come in contact with your eyes, skin, clothing, or the painted surfaces of the vehicle.

Spilt electrolyte should be flushed immediately with ample amounts of water.

Irritation to eyes or skin from contact with electrolyte requires immediate medical attention.

• Ventilate when charging or using the battery in an enclosed space.

CAUTION

• Keep it out of reach of children.

• Never disconnect the battery with the ignition switch or the operation mode in ON. Doing so could damage electric components.

• Never short-circuit the battery. This could cause it to overheat and be damaged.

• If the battery is to be quick-charged, first disconnect the battery cables.

• In order to prevent a short circuit, be sure to disconnect the negative (-) terminal first.

• Always wear protective eye goggles when working near the battery.

• Do not bring the nearby parts, the plastic parts and so on into contact with sulphuric acid (battery electrolyte) which may crack, stain or discolour them.

If they are in contact, wipe off with soft cloth, chamois or the like and an aqueous solution of neutral detergent then immediately rinse the affected parts with plenty of water.

NOTE

• Keep the terminals clean. After the battery is connected, apply terminal protection grease.

To clean the terminals, use lukewarm water.

• Check to see if the battery is securely installed and cannot be moved during travel. Also check each terminal for tightness.

• When the vehicle is to be left unused for a long period of time, remove the battery and store it in a place where the battery fluid will not freeze. The battery should be stored only in a fully charged condition.