GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Caution: Batteries produce explosive gases, contain corrosive acid, and supply levels of electrical current high enough to cause burns. Therefore, to reduce the risk of personal injury when working near a battery:

   • Always shield your eyes and avoid leaning over the battery whenever possible.
   • Do not expose the battery to open flames or sparks.
   • Do not allow the battery electrolyte to contact the eyes or the skin. Flush immediately and thoroughly any contacted areas with water and get medical help.
   • Follow each step of the jump starting procedure in order.
   • Treat both the booster and the discharged batteries carefully when using the jumper cables.


Object Number: 190959  Size: SF

The maintenance free battery is standard. There are no vent plugs in the cover. The battery is completely sealed except for two small vent holes in the side. These vent holes allow the small amount of gas that is produced in the battery to escape.

The battery has three functions as a major source of energy:

    • Engine cranking
    • Voltage stabilizer
    • Alternate source of energy with generator overload.

The battery specification label (example below) contains information about the following:

    • The test ratings
    • The original equipment catalog number
    • The recommended replacement model number

Object Number: 531145  Size: SH

Battery Ratings

A battery has two ratings:

    • Reserve capacity
    • Cold cranking amperage

When a battery is replaced use a battery with similar ratings. Refer to the battery specification label on the original battery or refer to Battery Usage .

Reserve Capacity

Reserve capacity is the amount of time in minutes it takes a fully charged battery, being discharged at a constant rate of 25 amperes and a constant temperature of 27°C (80°F) to reach a terminal voltage of 10.5 V. Refer to Battery Usage for the reserve capacity rating of the original equipment battery.

Cold Cranking Amperage

The cold cranking amperage is an indication of the ability of the battery to crank the engine at cold temperatures. The cold cranking amperage rating is the minimum amperage the battery must maintain for 30 seconds at -18°C (0°F) while maintaining at least 7.2 volts. Refer to Battery Usage for the cold cranking amperage rating for this vehicle.

Circuit Description

The battery positive terminal supplies B+ voltage to the under hood fuse block. The under hood fuse block provides B+ voltage to the junction block.

The battery negative terminal is connected to chassis ground G100 and G101.