Inactivity can be extremely harmful to all lead acid batteries. ACDelco recommends the following for seasonal use:
- New batteries should be given a full charge before use.
- For best battery life, batteries should not be discharged below 80% of their rated capacity. Proper battery sizing will avoid excessive battery discharge.
- Recharge battery at every opportunity, bring back to full charge at earliest opportunity.
- Completely charge the battery before storing.
- Remove all electrical connections, including series/parallel connectors.
- Store in a cool (not below freezing) place.
- When not in use, boost every two months.
- Check the battery as part of regular vehicle maintenance.
- Keep battery terminals clean and free of corrosion.
- To remove corrosion from terminals use a terminal brush.
- Check the alternator and make sure that it is not charging too high or low. If the alternator is not charging properly it will cause the battery to not charge correctly and cause deterioration.
- Avoid exposing the battery to extreme heat whenever possible.
- Turn off other electrical accessories (stereos, internal lights, etc.) as soon as they are no longer required to save electrical energy.
- A battery not in use tends to run down and create sulfate deposits. After your battery has been filled and charged, it is essential that you keep it adequately charged either by running the vehicle, or by using an independent battery charger.
Signs that a battery may need to be replaced are:
- Engine will not crank
- Battery runs down easily
- Battery will not recharge
- Corroded terminals
- Cracked/Broken cover or container
- Frequent slow speed or short distance driving
- Faulty battery connections
- Low voltage/open circuit
- Long-term vehicle storage
- Frozen battery





PROPOSITION 65 WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects and other reproductive harm. Batteries also contain other chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer. Wash hands after handling.