For 1990-2009 cars

### Built-in Hydrometer Diagnosis

A hydrometer is built into the maintenance free battery. The hydrometer is temperature compensated. The color on the hydrometer indicates the condition of the battery.

Under normal operation, one of two color conditions on the hydrometer is possible:

• | A green dot, or floating ball

• | Any green appearance is interpreted as a "green dot" and the battery is ready for testing.

• | A dark condition, with no green dot visible

If there is a cranking complaint, inspect for trouble in the charging or electrical systems.

Occasionally, a clear or light yellow color appears. This means the battery fluid level is below the bottom of the hydrometer. A low fluid level can be caused by any of the following conditions:

• | Prolonged charging

• | An excessive charge

• | A broken case

• | Excessive battery tipping

When finding a battery in ths condition it may indicate high charging voltages caused by a faulty charging system. The charging and electrical systems should be checked.

If a cranking complaint exists and is caused by the battery, the battery should be replaced.