Battery Protection During Vehicle Storage
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 GMC Sierra, 2004 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2004 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 (Non-HP2) or Battery Inspection/Test (HP2) .
In order to maintain a battery state of charge while storing the vehicle for more than 30 days:
- Ensure that the green dot is visible in the built-in hydrometer.
- Disconnect the battery ground to protect the battery from discharge by parasitic current drains.
IMPORTANT:
If a green dot is not visible in the hydrometer, charge the battery. Refer to Battery Charging (Non-HP2) or Battery Charging (HP2) .
CAUTION:
Refer to Battery Disconnect Caution in Cautions and Notices.
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.