2009 Saab 9-3 Owner's Manual - Page 214

93_US_7carcare_MY09.fm Page 214 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 11:26 AM 214 Car care NOTICE WARNING A discharged battery can freeze and fracture. Batteries should therefore always be stored away from sub-zero temperatures. The battery is maintenance free. If frequent short journeys are made, the battery may need extra charging. This can be done with a battery charger or by taking the car for a long run. If the battery is not being charged while the engine is running, the following message will appear on the SID: Battery not charging. Make a safe stop. Check the drive belt (see page 215). If the belt is damaged, the engine may overheat, the battery may not be charged and the A/C compressor may not work. Turn the two retainers a quarter turn to unlock the battery cover. Battery • When working on the battery, highly explosive gas can build up. A spark could ignite this gas that collects around the battery. Therefore, always avoid sparks and open flames in the vicinity of the battery. • The battery contains corrosive sulfuric acid. Always wear a face mask or goggles when working on the battery. • If battery acid gets into the eyes or splashes onto skin or clothing, wash the affected area liberally with water. If acid gets into the eyes or a large quantity makes contact with the skin, seek medical help. • Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash your hands after handling Always connect the positive (red) cable to the battery's positive (+) terminal, and the negative (black) cable to the negative (-) terminal of the battery. Always disconnect both battery leads when boost charging the battery. A car with standard equipment specifications and a fully charged battery can be left for up to 40 days and still have a sufficient charge for starting. If extra equipment is fitted, such as a mobile phone, the charge may only be sufficient for about 15 days.