Battery maintenance is very important to avoid finding oneself stranded because of a battery that can no longer operate. The necessary tools for this procedure include a face shield or protective goggles, rubber gloves, a battery, treated felt washers, baking soda and petroleum jelly. Always turn off the engine as well as all accessories when inspecting or servicing it. On these vehicles, there is a sealed, maintenance-free battery which does not require checks on electrolyte levels or addition of water. Periodically check the condition of the external side of the battery in case it has any damage like a cracked case. Check tightness of battery cable bolts to ensure good electrical connections and look at each cable for broken or worn-out insulation and frayed conductors. If one sees corrosion around the terminals, he should remove the cables from them first; then clean them with use of a terminal brush before reinstallation. Apply some petroleum jelly or grease on the terminals to reduce corrosion problems. Ensure that your battery carrier is in perfect condition and hold down clamp is tight enough. When reinstalling it after removing a battery be sure nothing falls into its bottom part and never over tighten nuts while reinstalling hold-down clamps. To remove corrosion from carrier, batter case and surrounding areas use solution made by mixing water with baking soda together with applying it with small brush that works before rinsing it off using plenty of clean water. Any metal parts such as those damaged by rust on vehicle should first be coated with zinc based primer then painted.
