Cold Cranking Amperage

The cold cranking amperage test is expressed at a battery temperature of -18 °C (0 °F). The current rating is the minimum amperage, which must be maintained by the battery for 30 seconds at the specified temperature, while meeting a minimum voltage requirement of 7.2 V. This rating is a measure of cold cranking capacity. The battery is not designed to last indefinitely. However, with proper care, the battery will provide many years of service.

If the battery tests well, but fails to perform satisfactorily in service for no apparent reason, the following factors may point to the cause of the trouble:

• Vehicle accessories are left on overnight.
• Slow average driving speeds are used for short periods.
• The vehicle's electrical load is more than the generator output, particularly with the addition of aftermarket equipment.
• Defects in the charging system, such as electrical shorts, a slipping generator belt, a faulty generator, or a faulty voltage regulator.
• Battery abuse, including failure to keep the battery cable terminals clean and tight, or a loose battery hold-down clamp.
• Mechanical problems in the electrical system, such as shorted or pinched wires.