GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Object Number: 190959  Size: SF

Caution: Batteries produce explosive gases. Batteries contain corrosive acid. Batteries supply levels of electrical current high enough to cause burns. Therefore, in order to reduce the risk of personal injury while working near a battery, observe the following guidelines:

   • Always shield your eyes.
   • Avoid leaning over the battery whenever possible.
   • Do not expose the battery to open flames or sparks.
   • Do not allow battery acid to contact the eyes or the skin.
      - Flush any contacted areas with water immediately and thoroughly.
      - Get medical help.

The maintenance free battery is standard in all GM vehicles. The battery is completely sealed except for 2 small vent holes in the sides. The vent holes allow a small amount of gas produced in the battery to escape.

The battery provides the following 3 functions in the electrical system:

    • The battery provides a source of energy for cranking the engine.
    • The battery acts as a voltage stabilizer for the electrical system.
    • The battery can provide energy when the electrical load exceeds the output of the generator, for a limited time.

Electrolyte Freezing

The freezing point of the battery electrolyte depends on the battery's specific gravity.

Freezing a battery can ruin the battery.

Protect the battery from freezing by keeping the battery fully charged.

With the green dot showing in the built-in hydrometer, the battery will not freeze until the temperature drops below -32°C (-25°F). A fully charged battery will not freeze until the temperature drops below -54°C (-65°F). Refer to Battery Hydrometer Displays Dark or Yellow Dot

Battery Ratings


Object Number: 288262  Size: SH

The battery specification label contains useful information for servicing the battery. The information includes test ratings, original equipment and recommended replacement part numbers. Refer to Battery Usage

The battery has 2 ratings: Cold Cranking Amperage (CCA) and Reserve Capacity.

    • CCA indicates the battery's ability to crank the engine during cold temperatures.
    • The CCA rating is the minimum amperage the battery must maintain for 30 seconds at -18°C (0°F), while staying above 7.2 volts.
    • The actual performance of the battery varies with temperature, electrical load, and the condition of the vehicle's electrical condition.

Reserve Capacity

Reserve capacity is the maximum amount of time (in minutes) it will take for a fully charged battery, being discharged at a constant rate of 25 amperes with the temperature remaining at 27°C (80°F), to reach a terminal voltage of 10.5 volts.

    • Reserve capacity is an estimate of how long a person may operate the vehicle under the following conditions:
       - No generator output
       - The headlamps are on
       - A minimum electrical load (most accessories are turned off).
    • How long the battery will actually last when the vehicle is being driven without generator output depends on the following factors:
       - The temperature
       - The current draw
       - The state of charge
       - The condition of the battery