2010 Volvo XC90 Owner's Manual - Page 214

09 Maintenance and servicing 09 Battery Battery maintenance The battery in your vehicle is located under the floor of the cargo compartment. Driving habits and conditions, climate, the number of starts, etc. all affect the service life and function of the battery. In order for your battery to perform satisfactorily, keep the following in mind: minutes a week or connected to a charger with an automatic charging function. WARNING • If the battery is fully discharged a number of times, this may shorten its service life. Keeping the battery fully charged helps prolong its service life. • • • Never expose the battery to open flame or electric spark. Do not smoke near the battery. Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid. Do not allow battery fluid to contact eyes, skin, fabrics or painted surfaces. If contact occurs, flush the affected area immediately with water. Obtain medical help immediately if eyes are affected. • The service life of a battery is affected by factors such as driving conditions and climate. Extreme cold may also further decrease the battery's starting capacity. • Use a screw driver to open the caps or cover and a flashlight to inspect the level. • If necessary, add distilled water. The level should never be above the indicator. • Because the battery's starting capacity decreases with time, it may be necessary to recharge it if the vehicle is not driven for an extended period of time or if the vehicle is usually only driven short distances. NOTE Used batteries should be properly disposed of at a recycling station or similar facility, or taken to your Volvo retailer. • The fluid level should be checked if the battery has been recharged. • After inspection, be sure the cap over each battery cell or the cover is securely in place. • WARNING PROPOSITION 65 WARNING! Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. • Check that the battery cables are correctly connected and properly tightened. • Never disconnect the battery when the engine is running, or when the key is in the ignition. This could damage the vehicle's electrical system. • The battery should be disconnected from the vehicle when a battery charger is used directly on the battery. • To help keep the battery in good condition, the vehicle should be driven for at least 15 214