Battery Protection During Vehicle Storage

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 GMC Sierra, 2003 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2003 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Certain devices on the vehicle maintain a small continuous current drain on the battery. A battery that is not used for an extended period of time will discharge. Eventually permanent damage will result. Discharged batteries will also freeze in cold weather. Refer to Battery Inspection/Test .

In order to maintain a battery state of charge while storing the vehicle for more than 30 days:

IMPORTANT: If a green dot is not visible in the hydrometer, charge the battery. Refer to Battery Charging .

Ensure that the green dot is visible in the built-in hydrometer.
CAUTION: Refer to BATTERY DISCONNECT CAUTION .
Disconnect the battery ground to protect the battery from discharge by parasitic current drains.

When the battery cannot be disconnected:

Maintain a high state of charge.
Establish a regular schedule for recharging the battery every 20-45 days.
A battery that has remained in a discharged state for a long period of time is difficult to recharge or may be permanently damaged.