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Specific Gravity Check

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Nissan Maxima. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Read hydrometer and thermometer indications at eye level.
  2. Use the chart below to correct your hydrometer reading according to electrolyte temperature.
Fig 1: Checking Specific Gravity
G04878548Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.

Hydrometer Temperature Correction

BATTERY ELECTROLYTE TEMPERATURE AND SPECIFIC GRAVITY SPECIFICATION

Battery electrolyte temperature [°C (°F)] Add to specific gravity reading
71 (160) 0.032
66 (150) 0.028
60 (140) 0.024
54 (130) 0.020
49 (120) 0.016
43 (110) 0.012
38 (100) 0.008
32 (90) 0.004
27 (80) 0
21 (70) -0.004
16 (60) -0.008
10 (50) -0.012
4 (40) -0.016
-1 (30) -0.020
-7 (20) -0.024
-12 (10) -0.028
-18 (0) -0.032
SPECIFIC GRAVITY AND CHARGE CONDITION REFERENCE

Corrected specific gravity Approximate charge condition
1.260 - 1.280 Fully charged
1.230 - 1.250 3/4 charged
1.200 - 1.220 1/2 charged
1.170 - 1.190 1/4 charged
1.140 - 1.160 Almost discharged
1.110 - 1.130 Completely discharged