2009 Honda Element Owner's Manual - Page 281

Main Menu Table Of Contents Checking the Battery NEGATIVE TERMINAL If additional battery maintenance is needed, see your dealer or a qualified technician. WARNING: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash your hands after handling. The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation. A spark or flame can cause the battery to explode with enough force to kill or seriously hurt you. Wear protective clothing and a face shield, or have a skilled technician do the battery maintenance. On EX and SC models TEST INDICATOR WINDOW POSITIVE TERMINAL 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. Check the terminals for corrosion (a white or yellowish powder). To remove it, cover the terminals with a solution of baking soda and water. It will bubble up and turn brown. When this stops, wash it off with plain water. Dry off the battery with a cloth or paper towel. Coat the terminals with grease to help prevent future corrosion. If you need to connect the battery to a charger, disconnect both cables to prevent damaging your vehicle's electrical system. Always disconnect the negative (－) cable first, and reconnect it last. If your vehicle's battery is disconnected, or goes dead, the time setting may be lost. To reset the time, see page 189. Maintenance If your vehicle's battery is disconnected or goes dead, the audio system may disable itself. The next time you turn on the radio, you will see ''ENTER CODE'' in the frequency display. Use the preset buttons to enter the code (see page 188). CONTINUED 277 2009 Element