2009 base model Fit.

The manual says, "Check the condition of the battery monthly by looking at the test indicator window. The label on the battery explains the test indicator's colors."

I have an OEM replacement battery from the dealer.
Where the heck is this supposed indicator window?

 

It's a little circular window thing, maybe about the size of a nickel, on the top of the battery itself, and is basically a very very unsophisticated built-in hydrometer. There's a green disk that floats up when the specific gravity is "high enough." Not all car batteries have one; if yours doesn't, just ignore the inspection procedure. You can tell pretty much the same thing about the battery's health and state of charge by paying a bit of attention to how rapidly the engine cranks over when you start it. (That's how quickly the starter turns the engine, not how quickly it catches and runs on its own.)

 

This time of year (in the northern hemisphere) is a good time to check the battery electrolyte (fluid). During the hot summer months, your battery can boil away a good amount. And while it probably has enough capacity to start the car NOW, it might not when the temperatures drop.

So, remove the hold down bracket and pry open the caps. (Many supposedly "maintenance free" batteries have stickers covering the caps...so use a knife to cut them away.)

On the GD, make sure you have the radio codes because you will need to access the filler near that big 80 amp main fuse by disconnecting the terminals. Fill the cells to the bottom of the tubes inside. (If you overfill, you will spill corrosive acid onto your bodywork.)

To make the job complete, assure that both large terminals are tight. Warm up the car (enter the radio code while you wait) and do the Idle Learn Procedure too.


It may sound like a lot, but it is time well spent!


PS, that battery indicator on the OEM battery only checks that one cell. And, it is usually the end cells that deplete first...

 

It was only on the original battery. Replacement batteries do not have it.

 

Oh, ok. They should have made that clear in the manual. (Not that anybody actually checks their battery monthly.)