Built-In Hydrometer
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Suzuki Swift +, 2008 Pontiac Wave, and 2008 Chevrolet Aveo. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The sealed battery has a built-in, temperature-compensated hydrometer in the top of the battery. This hydrometer is to be used with the following diagnostic procedure:
- When observing the hydrometer, make sure that the battery has a clean top.
- Under normal operation, 2 indications can be observed:
- GREEN DOT VISIBLE-Any green appearance is interpreted as a green dot, meaning the battery is ready for testing.
- DARK GREEN DOT IS NOT VISIBLE-If there is a cranking complaint, the battery should be tested. The charging and electrical systems should also be checked at this time.
- Occasionally, a third condition may appear:
CLEAR OR BRIGHT YELLOW-This means the fluid level is below the bottom of the hydrometer. This may have been caused by excessive or prolonged charging, a broken case, excessive tipping, or normal battery wear. Finding a battery in this condition may indicate high charging by a faulty charging system. Therefore, the charging and the electrical systems may need to be checked if a cranking complaint exists. If the cranking complaint is caused by the battery, replace the battery.