Car Battery Water Fill Level

Then use a battery charger to recharge the battery or just drive the car for a few days in normal service.

Car battery water fill level. Use only distilled water to fill the cells. In a fully charged battery that is relatively new the level can be filled up to the bottom of the filler tube. In a new fully charged battery the water levels can be filled up to the bottom of the filler tube. The proper method recommended by most battery manufacturers is to add enough water so that the cell plates are completely submerged but not so much that the water is up to the battery case cell cap vents.

Before charging make sure there is just enough water to cover any exposed plates. Visual inspection in the individual cells. If needed charge your battery. Add the appropriate amount of distilled water according to the condition of your battery.

Add water to the battery to bring the level to just below the bottom of the cell inspection hole. It is important to make sure the level covers the plates inside the cell. Check the water level and state of charge every 45 60 days. See photo example battery manufacturers also recommend using only distilled or deionized water and to use a watering gun or pitcher to fill each battery cell.

Distilled water can be purchased at most grocery stores. If the electrolyte levels in the cells are low plates are exposed fill each cell to just cover the plates. After charging add enough water to bring the level to the bottom of the vent about below the top of the cell. In a old or dying battery the water should only be filled enough to cover the electrodes.

While a battery should only be filled after it is completely charged you should check the water level before charging. Test your battery with a hydrometer and or a voltmeter to ensure the battery is fully charged. The water level should be about a inch above the tops of the plates to be considered in normal range. If needed add distilled water and charge.

When adding more water make sure you use distilled water. Tap water contains minerals that can diminish the performance of the battery and can increase the rate at which they self discharge. Pour distilled water carefully into each cell until the fluid level reaches the maximum fill indicator. When your car battery is fully charged the water level should be level to the bottom of the tube.

Do not over fill the water level. Fill the cells with distilled water. This can cause the acid water mixture to leak. Screw or push the battery caps back onto each cell to complete the task.

Remove the caps from the cells and make a visual inspection of the water level. In an older battery that is not in good shape the water should cover the electrodes only.